Keywords in SEO play a pivotal role in boosting your online presence. But what really is an SEO keyword? Let's explore.

In internet marketing, a keyword is a word or phrase that users input on search engine sites when they are searching for a particular service, product or information. SEO heavily relies on the use of these keywords to position websites.

The essence behind SEO keywords lies in their ability to link what users are searching for to the content that is available on your website. Strategically using these keywords will help lure the right audience and enhance the likelihood of sales.

Having established the definition of an SEO keyword, let's look at the ways to effectively use keywords. Improving the use of keywords demands a balance. You'd want to include relevant keywords to get the attention of search engines but without stuffing your content with them.

One way is placing the keyword in your content’s title. This not only helps in ranking, but also makes your content more relevant to the searcher's query. Next, consider using keywords in the meta description and headers of your website, as these are places where search engines tend to look.

Additionally, here it's important to choose keywords that connect with your audience. This means understanding their language, their internet search habits and their needs.

To sum up, a well-chosen SEO keyword can be a connection between the user's search and your website's offerings. It's a vital tool to be successful in the competitive world of digital marketing. However, the best results can only be achieved by using it effectively and responsibly.