Long-tail keywords are longer, more specific phrases that users search for, often consisting of three or more words. Unlike short-tail keywords, which are broad and highly competitive, long-tail keywords are more targeted and have lower search volume but higher intent.
Here’s how to find long-tail keywords:
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Brainstorm
Start by brainstorming potential long-tail keywords that are relevant to your business. Think about the specific products or services you offer and the problems you solve for your customers. For instance, if you sell handmade organic soaps, consider phrases like “best organic soap for sensitive skin” or “handmade soap for dry skin.” Engage with your team or use customer feedback to gather insights. Consider different angles such as the benefits your products offer, common customer concerns, and unique selling points. This initial list will serve as a foundation for further research and refinement.
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Use Keyword Research Tools
Use keyword research tools like Google Keyword Planner, Ahrefs, or SEMrush to find long-tail keywords related to your business. These tools can help you identify high-volume keywords and phrases that your target audience is searching for. Enter your brainstormed keywords into these tools to see search volume, competition level, and keyword difficulty. Look for keywords with moderate to high search volume but lower competition, as these can be easier to rank for. Additionally, explore the suggestions and variations these tools provide, as they often uncover keywords you might not have considered.
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Look at Related Searches
When you search for a keyword in Google, scroll down to the “related searches” section to find ideas for long-tail keywords. These are phrases that people frequently search for in addition to your original keyword. For example, searching for “eco-friendly cleaning products” might reveal related searches like “best eco-friendly cleaning products for kitchen” or “non-toxic cleaning supplies for pets.” This section can give you insights into the variations and related concepts that are popular among searchers, helping you expand your keyword list with relevant and contextually rich terms.
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Check Out Forums and Q&A Sites
Check out forums and Q&A sites like Quora or Reddit to see what questions people are asking related to your business. These can be great sources of long-tail keywords that are specific to your niche. For example, if you’re in the fitness industry, you might find threads discussing “best workout routines for busy professionals” or “effective home workouts for weight loss.” Pay attention to the language and specific concerns users express, as these can provide valuable insights into the long-tail keywords your potential customers are using.
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Analyze Your Website’s Search Data
Analyze your website’s search data to see what search queries are driving traffic to your site. Use this information to identify long-tail keywords that are already working for your business. Tools like Google Analytics and Google Search Console can show you the exact phrases users searched for before landing on your site. Look for patterns and frequently occurring terms, as these represent successful long-tail keywords. Additionally, consider creating more content around these keywords or optimizing existing pages to further capitalize on the traffic they bring.
When you have a list of potential long-tail keywords, prioritize them based on relevance, search volume, and intent. Incorporate these keywords into your content strategy, including your website copy, blog posts, and social media content, to improve your search engine rankings and attract more qualified traffic to your website.