What is a Long-tail Keyword?
There are 3 common types of keywords. Short-tail, mid-tail and long-tail keywords. These typically classified by their length.
Long-tail keywords are specific phrases that usually contain three or more words and target a very particular audience. Unlike broader, shorter keywords (like “shoes”), long-tail keywords (like “best running shoes for flat feet”) are much more focused.
What Makes Long-Tail Keywords Valuable for Your SEO Strategy?
Long-tail keywords have become a popular SEO strategy as they usually have lower search volume, which means fewer people might be searching for them. However, the people who do search for them are usually further along in their buying/ research journey – They know exactly what they want, which means they’re more likely to convert.
Long-tail keywords are also less competitive which means there’s less competition for these phrases, making it easier for your website to rank higher in search results. You are able to better understand the intent behind the searches, allowing you to create more tailored content that speaks directly to your audience’s needs and interests.
Short vs Long-Tail Keywords: Which Should I Use?
The answer isn’t all that simple and ultimately depends on your strategy and goals. Long-tail keywords are especially beneficial for smaller, newer website because they are easier to obtain.
However, there is still value in short-tail keywords (broader terms) because they often have higher search volumes and can bring more visibility to your website. The downside is that short-tail keywords are highly competitive and can be difficult to rank for, especially if you’re just starting out.
A balanced SEO strategy typically involves a mix of both. Targeting long-tail keywords can help you build authority and drive more focused traffic, while short-tail keywords can increase your site’s overall reach over time.
How To Find Long-Tail Keywords
- Look At Questions On Q&A Websites: Websites like Quora, Reddit, or industry-specific forums are goldmines for long-tail keyword ideas. Pay attention to the questions people are asking—these are often detailed, niche search terms you can target.
- Find Ideas In Google’s SERP: Google itself can be a great tool for discovering long-tail keywords. Check out the “People Also Ask” section, “Related Searches” at the bottom of the page, or use Google’s autocomplete to see what users are typing in. These suggestions are based on real user searches!
- Use Keyword Research Tools: Tools like Ahrefs, SEMrush, and Google’s Keyword Planner can help you uncover long-tail keyword opportunities. These tools provide insight into search volume, competition, and other valuable data that make it easier to find terms relevant to your website.
