Unlocking The Power Of Long-Tail Keywords (Beginners Guide)

As a blogger, you know that the right keywords can make or break your content. But with so many bloggers out there competing for the same high-traffic keywords, it can be tough to stand out from the crowd. That’s where long-tail keywords come in.

These longer, more specific phrases may not have the same search volume as broader keywords, but they can be just as valuable in driving targeted traffic to your blog.

Unlocking the power of long-tail keywords can be a game-changer for bloggers looking to boost their search engine optimization (SEO) and attract more engaged readers.

In this step-by-step guide, we’ll show you how to identify long-tail keywords, optimize your content for them, and start seeing the benefits of this powerful SEO strategy. If you are just starting out, this guide will help you take your content to the next level.

So, let’s get started!

Understanding Long-Tail Keywords

Long-tail keywords are phrases consisting of three or more words that are highly specific to what you’re writing about. They are more targeted and less competitive than broader, more general keywords.

For example, a short tail keyword like “SEO Tools” has over 261 million results in Google:

Google Search – SEO Tools

So, in order to rank first in Google for that query, you must outrank 261 million other websites.

On the other hand, look at a long tail version of that keyword, like “Free SEO Tools for Blogger.”

That long tail keyword has far less competition than the head term “SEO Tools.”

Furthermore, Long-tail keywords are essential for bloggers because they allow you to target a niche audience that is more likely to engage with your content. By using these keywords in your blog posts, you can attract readers who are interested in your specific topic and are more likely to stick around and engage with your content.

Another benefit of long-tail keywords is that they are less expensive to bid on if you decide to use them in paid advertising. Since they are less competitive, the cost per click is typically lower than broader keywords, which can save you money on your advertising budget.

Long-Tail Keyword Examples

Let’s look at some examples of terms that aren’t long-tail keywords.

These are some examples of very broad “head terms” that aren’t long-tail keywords:

Content Writing
WordPress plugins
WordPress website
Make Money Online

See how these terms are short and less specific. Those are features that keywords that aren’t long-tail terms tend to have.

Here are some long-tail keyword examples:

See how these keywords are long and highly specific. Those are telltale signs of long-tail keywords.

Why Long-Tail Keywords Are Important for Bloggers?

Long-tail keywords are important because they can help you in ranking higher in search engine results pages (SERPs). When you use long-tail keywords, you’re targeting a specific audience that is more likely to be interested in your content. This means that your blog posts are more likely to show up in their search results.

In addition to helping you rank higher in search results, long-tail keywords can also help you attract more engaged readers. Readers who find your blog through a long-tail keyword search are more likely to stay on your site and engage with your content because they are specifically looking for information on that topic.

Long-tail keywords can also help you establish yourself as an authority in your niche. By using highly specific keywords, you’re showing your expertise on the topic and providing valuable information to your readers.

How to Find Long-Tail Keywords

Now that you understand why long-tail keywords are important let’s talk about how to find them. Here are some strategies to help you identify long-tail keywords for your blog:

1. Use Google Autocomplete

One of the simplest ways to find long-tail keywords is to use Google Autocomplete. When you start typing a search query into Google, the Autocomplete feature will suggest related searches based on what you’re typing. These suggestions can give you ideas for long-tail keywords to target.

For example, let’s say you’re looking for long-tail keywords related to content marketing. You may type “best content marketing t” into the search bar to get the following list of suggestions:

2. Google’s People Also Ask (PAA) Box

This is another simple method for finding question keywords.

First, use Google to search for a keyword.

Then, look for a “People also ask” box in the SERPs.

These are questions related to the keyword you typed in.

And if you expand one of the questions, you’ll see an answer plus, Google will also show you even MORE questions.

3. Google “Related Searches”

Google gives a list of eight keywords at the bottom of the first page of search results.

Typically, these are long-tail keywords that are closely related to the keyword you just searched for.

For example, below are some of the long-tail keywords that Google suggests for “content marketing.”

4. Semrush Keyword Magic Tool

Semrush is one of the best SEO tools available that help you in keyword research, site audit, backlink analysis, and on-page SEO recommendations. Its Keyword Magic Tool helps you generate thousands of keywords in seconds.

Just type a broad “seed keyword” into the tool:

And it will soon find several long-tail variations of that keyword:

5. AnswerThePublic

AnswerThePublic is a useful keyword research tool that generates question-focused keywords.

To use it, type a broad keyword in the search field and click Search:

The tool will then show questions that people commonly ask about your topic:

And because question keywords are often lengthy, they are almost always long-tail terms.

You may even sort the data alphabetically.

6. Google Keyword Planner

Google Keyword Planner is a free tool that allows you to research keywords and see how often they are searched for. You can use this tool to identify long-tail keywords that are relevant to your niche.

7. Forums

Forums like Quora or Reddit is a great places to get content ideas. But it can also be used to find long-tail keywords.

For example, we found a handful of solid topics by typing “content marketing” into Quora:

Researching Your Audience Search Intent

When you’re researching long-tail keywords, it’s important to consider your audience’s search intent. Search intent refers to the reason why someone is searching for information on a particular topic.

For example, someone searching for “What is content marketing” may be looking for an explanation or definition of content marketing. This long tail keyword indicates informational search intent.

While someone searching for “Content marketing vs. social media marketing” may be looking for a comparison between two different marketing strategies. This long tail keyword indicates navigational search intent.

By understanding your audience’s search intent, you can create content that meets their needs and targets the right long-tail keywords.

To research search intent, you can use an SEO tool like Semrush. Semrush search intent feature makes it easy to find a keyword search intent.

That way, you can create content that gives your reader exactly what they’re looking for.

Creating Content Around Long-Tail Keywords

Once you’ve identified long-tail keywords to target, it’s time to create content around them. Here are a few tips for creating content that targets long-tail keywords:

1. Use the Keyword in Your Headline

Including your target keyword in your headline can help your blog post rank higher in search results for that keyword. Make sure your headline accurately reflects the content of your post and entices readers to click through to your blog.

2. Use the Keyword in Your Content

In addition to using the keyword in your headline, you should also use it throughout your blog post. However, make sure to use the keyword naturally and in context. Overusing the keyword (known as “keyword stuffing”) can actually hurt your SEO and make your content less readable.

3. Include Related Keywords and Phrases

In addition to your target keyword, you should also include related keywords and phrases throughout your blog post. This can help your content rank for a broader range of search terms and attract more readers.

4. Write High-Quality Content

Ultimately, the success of your long-tail keyword strategy depends on the quality of your content. Make sure your blog post provides valuable information to your readers and is well-written and engaging.

Optimizing Your Blog Posts for Long-Tail Keywords

Now that you’ve created content around your long-tail keywords, it’s time to optimize your blog post for SEO. Below are some tips for optimizing your content:

1. Use Meta Tags

Meta tags are HTML tags that provide information about your blog post to search engines. Make sure to include your target keyword in your meta title and description to help your blog post rank higher in search results.

2. Use Header Tags

Header tags (H1, H2, H3, etc.) help organize your content and make it more readable for your readers. Make sure to use your target keyword in at least one header tag to tell search engines what your blog post is about.

3. Optimize Your Images

Images can also help your blog post rank higher in search results. Make sure to include alt text that describes your image and includes your target keyword.

4. Use Internal Linking

Internal linking (linking to other pages on your blog) can help search engines better understand the structure of your blog and the relationships between your blog posts. Make sure to include internal links to related blog posts throughout your content.

Measuring the Success of Your Long-Tail Keyword Strategy

Once you’ve implemented your long-tail keyword strategy, it’s important to measure its success. Here are a few metrics to track:

Track Keyword Rankings: Use a keyword tracking tool like SEMrush or Ahrefs to track the rankings of your long-tail keywords over time. This will help you see how your keyword strategy impacts your search engine rankings.
Monitor Organic Traffic: Use Google Analytics to monitor the organic traffic to your website. Look for an increase in traffic from your long-tail keywords, which can indicate that your strategy is working.
Track Conversion Rates: Use Google Analytics to track the conversion rates of your long-tail keywords. Look for an increase in conversion rates, such as email sign-ups or purchases, indicating that your strategy drives valuable traffic to your website.
Monitor Bounce Rates: Use Google Analytics to monitor the bounce rates of your long-tail keywords. Look for a decrease in bounce rates, indicating that your content is relevant and engaging to your target audience.
Analyze User Behavior: Use tools like heat maps or session recordings to analyze how users interact with your website. Look for patterns and insights that can help you optimize your long-tail keyword strategy and improve the user experience.

Common Mistakes to Avoid When Using Long-Tail Keywords

While long-tail keywords can be a powerful SEO strategy, there are a few common mistakes to avoid:

Targeting Keywords that are Too Broad: Avoid targeting keywords that are too broad or general. Instead, focus on long-tail keywords that are specific to your business or industry. This will help you attract highly targeted traffic and improve your chances of ranking well in search engines.
Keyword Stuffing: Avoid keyword stuffing, which is the practice of using a keyword too frequently in your content. This can negatively impact your SEO and make your content less readable and engaging.
Ignoring Search Intent: Make sure to understand the search intent behind your long-tail keywords and create content that suits the needs and interests of your target audience. This will help improve the relevance and value of your content.
Not Updating Old Content: Make sure to update old content that targets long-tail keywords. This can help improve the relevance and freshness of your content, improving your SEO and attracting more traffic.
Not Tracking Results: Make sure to track the results of your long-tail keyword strategy over time. This will let you identify areas for improvement and optimize your strategy to drive better results.
Ignoring User Experience: Make sure to optimize your content for user experience. This includes using clear and concise language, formatting your content for readability, and providing a clear call to action.

Conclusion

Long-tail keywords can be a powerful SEO strategy for bloggers looking to attract targeted traffic and engage their readers.

By using the steps outlined in this guide, you can identify long-tail keywords, create content around them, and optimize your blog posts for SEO.

Remember to track your metrics and avoid common mistakes, and you will be well on your way to unlocking the power of long-tail keywords for your blog.

We hope this guide helps you learn everything related to long-tail keywords.

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Murtaza Malek

Web Engineer, Evid Learner and Reader, Techentreprenuer, Tech Evangelist.

5 April 2023