#Hashtag vs Keyword

Hashtags and keywords and both vital online marketing tactics and both share some of the same definition attributes but also have some distinct functional mechanics.

Let's begin with the basic definitions:

Keyword

(1) In text editing and database management systems, a keyword is an index entry that identifies a specific record or document.
(2) In programming, a keyword is a word that is reserved by a program because the word has a special meaning. Keywords can be commands or parameters. Every programming language has a set of keywords that cannot be used as variable names. Keywords are sometimes called reserved names . (3) A word used by a search engine in its search for relevant Web pages.

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Hashtag

The # symbol, called a hashtag, is used to mark keywords or topics in a Tweet. It was created organically by Twitter users as a way to categorize messages.

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The similarities are that both are a word or phrases that is a key identifier to reference by the author and to be searched. Now the difference, the word or phrase is only identified by it originating platform.  A hashtag is now only identified to its platform Twitter. A keyword is identified with the giant search platform Google and diluted into other areas of online marketing language.

Additionally, keywords are a long term not a limited or one time usage SEO/Social Media strategy. Add in that hashtags can be used as search terms when people want several choices for the word or phrase. Twitter feeds are found in search results especially favoring active twitter accounts and extremely popular terms.

When developing a strategic marketing plan including the usage of hashtags and keywords (should always be included) insure that you understand the difference and the similarities and how to strategically incorporate into your plan. You can expect results varying from top search results, twitter trending, brand impressions and a gateway to sales.

All the Best,

Michael Newhouse

WCNGroup is a Strategic Marketing and Branding agency founded by Michael Newhouse. Services include brand identity, demographic discovery, marketing planning, business plan development, experiential campaign execution, digital marketing and social media.