Key Takeaways
- Long tail keywords are longer, more specific search phrases that boost SEO rankings.
- They have less competition, so they’re easier to rank for than short tail keywords.
- They increase conversions because they’re closer to user search intent.
- You can find them using Google Autocomplete, keyword tools, and competitor research.
What You Need to Know About Long Tail Keywords
Let’s say you’re in the market for a new laptop. Instead of just searching “laptop” on Google, you might enter “best laptop for video editing.” That’s a long tail keyword—a specific search phrase that helps businesses connect with more specific, targeted audiences.
So, what is a long tail keyword, and why does it matter for SEO? These longer, more detailed keywords help with ranking in search engines, attracting the right customers, and increasing conversions.
While short, broad keywords drive general traffic, long tail keywords bring qualified leads who are more likely to take action. This post explains how long tail keywords work, why they improve SEO, and effective ways to find and use them.
What Is a Long Tail Keyword?
A long tail keyword is a search phrase of three or more words that targets a specific audience. Unlike broad, high-volume keywords, these phrases focus on user intent and tend to be less competitive, making them easier to rank for in search engines.
Long Tail Keyword Examples
To better understand long tail keywords, let’s compare them to short tail keywords.
- Short tail keyword: “Running shoes” (high competition, broad intent)
- Long tail keyword: “Best running shoes for flat feet women” (low competition, highly targeted intent)
By going for long tail keywords, businesses can attract users actively searching for a solution instead of just casually browsing.
Long Tail Keywords vs. Short Tail Keywords
Long tail keywords differ from short tail keywords in three key ways.
Search Volume and Competition
Short tail keywords, like “digital marketing” or “SEO tips,” often come with high search volume but intense competition. Therefore, ranking for them takes a well-established website, strong backlinks, and significant SEO effort.
In contrast, long tail keywords like “best SEO tips for small businesses” have lower search volume but a lot less competition, making them much easier to rank for.
User Intent and Conversion Rates
People searching for short tail keywords might be looking for general information, whereas long tail keywords often indicate a more specific need or intent to take action.
For example, someone searching for “office chair” is likely just browsing, while someone searching for “best ergonomic office chair for back pain” is closer to taking action, maybe making a purchase.
Because long tail keywords align more closely with user intent, they tend to result in higher conversion rates.
Relevance for Niche Markets
Businesses in niche industries benefit the most from long tail keywords.
A local bakery will struggle to rank for “cupcakes,” but optimizing for “gluten-free cupcakes near me” allows it to reach a highly targeted audience and improve local SEO rankings.
Benefits of Long Tail Keywords
Using long tail keywords in your SEO strategy offers several advantages.
- Easier to Rank For – Less competition makes ranking achievable.
- Better Targeting – These keywords attract users searching for specific products, services, or information.
- Higher Conversion Rates – Because they match user intent, they lead to better engagement and sales.
- Lower Cost in PPC Campaigns – Bidding on long tail keywords in Google Ads is cheaper and usually yields better return on investment.
How to Find Long Tail Keywords
Finding the right long tail keywords requires the right tools and strategies. Here’s a few ways to do so:
Use Google Autocomplete and Related Searches
Start typing a broad keyword into Google and note the suggested search terms. These are real searches people are making.
For example, typing “best laptop for” might suggest:
- Best laptop for students
- Best laptop for graphic design
- Best laptop for video editing under $1,000
Scrolling to the bottom of the search results will also show related searches, offering more keyword ideas.
Leverage Keyword Research Tools
Tools like Google Keyword Planner, Ubersuggest, Ahrefs, and SEMrush provide keyword variations, search volume, and competition data.
Check “People Also Ask” and Forums
Google’s “People Also Ask” section provides real user questions, which can help you discover new long tail keyword opportunities.
Additionally, sites like Reddit, Quora, and niche forums reveal exact phrases users search for.
Analyze Competitor Keywords
Using SEO tools, you can check which long tail keywords your competitors rank for and change up your strategy accordingly.
How to Use Long Tail Keywords in Your SEO Strategy
Once you’ve identified valuable long tail keywords, use them strategically in your content.
Optimize Blog Content
Use long tail keywords in titles, headings, body text, URLs, and image alt text.
Improve Website SEO
Include long tail keywords in meta descriptions, product descriptions, and category pages.
Enhance PPC Campaigns
Since long tail keywords have lower cost per click and higher conversion rates, they make paid ads more effective.
Apply Long Tail Keywords in Niche Industries
Businesses in competitive industries, like digital marketing for lawyers, can see huge benefits from long tail keywords. Instead of broad, highly competitive terms like “SEO for lawyers,” targeting phrases like “best digital marketing strategies for small law firms” provides better ranking and higher-quality traffic.
Long Tail Keywords FAQs
Why are long tail keywords important for SEO?
Long tail keywords are specific search phrases with less competition. They help websites rank faster, attract the right audience, and increase conversions.
How many words should a long tail keyword have?
A long tail keyword typically contains three or more words. However, specificity matters more than length.
Can long tail keywords improve paid advertising campaigns?
Yes. They reduce cost per click and attract higher-intent buyers, making them cost-effective for Google Ads and PPC campaigns.
How often should I use long tail keywords in my content?
Use them naturally in titles, headings, body text, and meta descriptions, but avoid keyword stuffing.
Start Implementing Long Tail Keywords Today
So, what is a long tail keyword? It’s a powerful SEO tool that helps businesses rank higher, attract the right audience, and increase conversions.
While short tail keywords offer broad exposure, long tail keywords provide precision and intent-driven traffic, making them essential for SEO and PPC campaigns.
By using keyword research tools, analyzing competitors, and optimizing content, businesses can leverage long tail keywords for sustained online success.
