Long-tail keywords are extremely targeted search terms that precisely address the searcher’s objectives. These keywords often have good conversion rates, low search traffic, and little competition.
We refer to these terms as “long-tail” keywords because they fall on the “long tail” end of the search demand curve, which indicates that only a small number of individuals are looking for them on a monthly basis.
Long-tail keywords are frequently simpler to rank for than seed keywords and produce higher conversion rates despite the low search volume.
This is due to long-tail keywords’ intent-driven nature, which communicates a distinct client demand that you can meet.
The Importance of Long-Tail Keywords
1. Ranks More Easily
In general, highly competitive head phrases are popular. As a result, it may take years to rank for that phrase using SEO (assuming you can rank at all).
2. Focused Traffic
Long-tail keywords frequently have extremely precise meanings, so whoever searches for them in Google is generally on the verge of completing a purchase.
3. PPC Advertising That Costs Less
Long-tail keywords might also help you maximize the return on your Google Ads advertising investment.
The cost per click is generally high for high-volume keywords.
Furthermore, as we just mentioned, these kinds of wide keywords don’t even translate very well.
Long-tail, low-volume keywords are extremely focused, though. They can therefore have a better conversion rate.
Additionally, their CPC may be lower. A win-win situation for PPC!
Focusing on long-tail keywords has the main drawback of requiring you to rank for multiple of them in order to receive the same amount of traffic as you would from a single head term.
Where to Look for Long-Tail Keywords?
Listed below are a few tested techniques for locating long-tail keywords for your website.
1. Autocomplete on Google
Google will display a drop-down list of associated search terms as soon as you begin typing in the search box.
You can also follow your search term with a letter to see more results.
2. People Also Ask (PAA) by Google
A great place to find question-based keywords is Google’s “People Also Ask” section.
Google also creates other relevant questions when you click to expand on an existing query.
3. Semrush Keyword Magic Tool
Thousands of keywords are generated quickly via the Keyword Magic Tool.
Simply type a general “seed term” into the program.
Additionally, it will swiftly locate a few long-tail variations of that keyword.
4. Keyword Planner for Google Ads
For PPC campaigns, Google has created the Keyword Planner. But even so, it’s a good place to find keyword suggestions.
Go to the Keyword Planner after logging into your Google Ads account to use it.
You’ll have the choice between two options: “Get search volume and forecasts:” and “Discover new keywords.”
To find new keywords, choose this option.
Put in a broad “seed keyword” after that. A number of related terms will be generated by Google.
How to Effectively Use Long-Tail Keywords?
The first half of the battle is finding long-tail keywords.
You must properly utilize the keywords on your page after you’ve selected them.
You can learn everything you need to know about using keywords effectively from this guide to on-page SEO.
Here, however, are a few on-page SEO pointers that are particularly relevant to long-tail keywords as a quick primer.
1. Use Natural Keywords
Some long-tail keywords are awkward, like “best SEO tool for SaaS startups.” Therefore, it’s not always simple to use them naturally in a sentence.
You might need to be a little more inventive or change your keyword slightly.
Make sure not to overuse your keyword on your page. Always prioritize readability and usability.
2. Think Strategically About Your Keywords
The title, headers, and subheaders of your page should all contain your long-tail keyword, if possible. Additionally, use it in the opening sentence of your first paragraph.
3. Take a User’s Search Intent Into Account
It’s not sufficient to simply add your keyword to the website. Your content must match the intent of the search for that keyword for it to appear highly in Google results.
It’s simple to discover a keyword’s search intent with Semrush’s Search Intent feature.
Conclusion
Any effective SEO effort still starts with keyword research. Furthermore, new websites (or websites with a modest amount of authority) should focus on long-tail keywords.
Those keywords were likely too competitive if you were having trouble ranking for your target terms. And it may be time to shift your attention to long-tail keywords.