What Are Long Tail Keywords & Why You Need Them

If you’ve ever struggled to rank for competitive keywords or attract the right audience, long tail keywords might be the SEO strategy you’re missing. While many marketers focus on broad, high-volume keywords, long tail keywords can help you target specific audiences, increase conversions, and improve search rankings without battling fierce competition.

So, what are long tail keywords, and why should they be part of your SEO playbook? This guide breaks it down with definitions, advantages, and real-world examples to help you use them effectively.

What Are Long Tail Keywords?

Long tail keywords are search phrases that are more specific, longer (typically 3+ words), and lower in search volume than generic keywords. They tend to target niche audiences who are searching for particular products, services, or information.

Example of a Broad Keyword vs. a Long Tail Keyword:

As you can see, long tail keywords provide more context and are often used by searchers with a clear intent; whether it’s to buy something, learn something, or compare options.

Why Are Long Tail Keywords Important for SEO?

Now that we’ve defined what are long tail keywords, let’s explore why they matter in SEO and content marketing.

1. Lower Competition, Higher Rankings

Broad keywords are highly competitive – ranking for “running shoes” means competing with giant brands like Nike and Adidas. But ranking for “best running shoes for flat feet” gives smaller businesses a better shot at reaching the right audience.

Example: Instead of trying to rank for “SEO tools,” target “best free SEO tools for bloggers in 2025.” You’ll have a better chance of ranking on page one with less competition.

2. Higher Conversion Rates

People who use long tail keywords are often further along in their buying journey. Someone searching for “best wireless headphones under $100” is likely closer to making a purchase than someone searching for “headphones.”

✔ More specific searches = higher intent

✔ Less competition = higher click-through rates

✔ Better audience targeting = more conversions

3. Better for Voice Search Optimization

With the rise of voice search (e.g., Siri, Alexa, Google Assistant), search queries are becoming more conversational. Long tail keywords often mirror how people naturally ask questions.

Example:

• Text search: “best pizza NYC”
• Voice search: “Where can I find the best pizza in NYC?”

Our Top Tip: Optimize content for natural, question-based long tail keywords to capture more voice search traffic.

4. Helps You Target Niche Audiences

Not every visitor is your ideal customer. Long tail keywords help you attract highly relevant traffic—people searching for exactly what you offer.

Example: Instead of “web hosting,” target “eco-friendly web hosting for small businesses” (which would align with our Eco Web Hosting guide).

How to Find Long Tail Keywords

If you’re convinced about why long tail keywords matter, the next step is learning how to find them.

1. Use Google’s Autocomplete & Related Searches

Type a broad keyword into Google, and you’ll see suggestions based on real search queries.

Example:

• Type “best coffee for…” → Suggestions: “best coffee for weight loss,” “best coffee for cold brew.”

2. Check “People Also Ask” & “Related Searches”

These sections in Google search results provide insight into commonly asked questions that can inspire long tail keyword ideas.

3. Leverage Keyword Research Tools

Some of the best tools to find long tail keywords include:

1. Ahrefs – Find keyword difficulty, search volume, and competitors’ keywords.
2. SEMrush – Discover related keyword phrases and search trends.
3. Google Keyword Planner – See keyword variations based on real searches.
4. AnswerThePublic – Get visualized keyword data based on common search queries.

Example: Instead of targeting “SEO tips,” a better long tail keyword would be “SEO tips for small business websites.”

4. Analyze Competitor Content

Check out what top-ranking competitors are using and look for gaps you can fill with your content.

How to Use Long Tail Keywords Effectively

Once you’ve found your long tail keywords, it’s time to optimize your content for them.

• Include long tail keywords in title tags & meta descriptions – Improve your page’s click-through rate.
• Use keywords naturally in content – Avoid keyword stuffing; keep it conversational.
• Optimize headers (H2, H3) – Structure content for better readability and SEO.
• Answer user intent directly – Provide clear, useful information in your content.
• Use long tail keywords in image alt text – Helps with image search rankings.
• Internal linking – Guide users to related content using keyword-rich anchor text.

Example: If you’re writing about “best project management software for freelancers,” link to a related article on “how to choose the right productivity tools.”

Long Tail Keywords vs. Short Tail Keywords: Which Is Better?

While short tail keywords are great for brand awareness, long tail keywords help businesses drive more targeted, high-intent traffic.

Final Thoughts: Why You Should Start Using Long Tail Keywords Today

If you’re looking for an SEO strategy that delivers results, long tail keywords should be a key focus. They:

1. Reduce competition and increase rankings.
2. Attract targeted audiences who are ready to take action.
3. Boost conversion rates by aligning with user intent.
4. Improve content relevance for voice search and niche marketing.

Want to optimize your content further? Check out our Content SEO Best Practices to take your strategy to the next level!

Long Tail Keywords – FAQ

What are long tail keywords?
Long tail keywords are specific search phrases, usually three or more words long, that target niche audiences. They have lower search volume and competition but higher conversion potential.

Why are long tail keywords important for SEO?
They help you rank higher in search results with less competition, attract more targeted traffic, and often lead to better conversion rates because they match clear user intent.

How do I find long tail keywords?
Use tools like Google Autocomplete, “People Also Ask” sections, AnswerThePublic, SEMrush, and Ahrefs. Also analyze competitor content and explore Google Keyword Planner for ideas.

Are long tail keywords better than short tail keywords?
Yes, for targeting specific user intent and achieving higher conversion rates. Short tail keywords are broader and more competitive, while long tail keywords offer better opportunities for ranking and engagement.

Where should I use long tail keywords in my content?
Include them in your title tag, meta description, headers, body text, alt text, and internal links—naturally and without overstuffing.