Keywords are an important part of ensuring your website is optimised correctly to gain organic traffic. They are defined as relevant, specific terms people enter when using search engines. With the right keywords, your site can rank higher, increasing your credibility and driving engagement.
Keywords are divided into two categories, short and long tail. These each have distinct impacts on your site and should be combined for the best results. But what is the difference between them and how should they be used? In this article, we will explain everything you need to know about short and long-tail keywords so you can boost your online presence.
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Short Tail Keywords
Short tail keywords are usually one or two words that cover a broad topic. For instance, ‘shoes’ or ‘cheap shoes’ would be a short-tail keyword. These keywords cover a broad scope and can help you reach a wider audience. As 68% of online interactions begin with a search engine, it is clear why being able to attract a larger audience is important.
However, these keywords are harder to rank for. With a broader scope, they also attract more competitors. Likewise, the broad nature of short-tail keywords means they often capture users at the beginning of their search journey. This often results in lower conversion rates.
Short Tail and SEO
Short-tail keywords, though broad and competitive, play a crucial role in SEO. They drive significant traffic to your website. These one or two-word phrases are searched frequently, allowing your site to tap into a large audience. When your site ranks for popular short-tail keywords, it gains visibility and has the potential to attract thousands of visitors.
However, because these keywords target a broad user base, they often capture people at the early stages of their search journey. While conversions may not be immediate, ranking for short-tail keywords can help establish your site’s authority. They can improve brand awareness, and funnel traffic toward more specific, conversion-focused content.
Short tail keywords make up 18.5% of search queries and can improve your ranking by up to 5 positions if used correctly. They are an essential part of an overall SEO strategy.
Long Tail Keywords
Long-tail keywords are almost the opposite of short-tail keywords. They are more specific phrases and word combinations that target a specific audience. For instance, ‘best running shoes for men’ is a long-tail keyword.
While short-tail keywords have a higher volume, long-tail keywords make up 70% of all search queries. Likewise, they have higher conversion rates at 36%. While short-tail keywords may attract more users, long-tail keywords attract users who are actively looking for your service and are more likely to engage.
Because they are more specific, there is often also less competition and they are easier to rank for.
Long Tail and SEO
Long-tail keywords significantly boost SEO by targeting specific, intent-driven searches. These longer phrases may have lower search volumes, as 92% of all keywords only get 10 or fewer searches a month. However, they attract users who know what they want and are often ready to convert. This relevance improves click-through rates and reduces bounce rates, both important SEO factors.
Additionally, targeting long-tail keywords allows you to capture niche markets. It can diversify your keyword strategy and help search engines understand and rank your content. Ultimately, improving your site’s overall SEO performance.
Why Short and Long Tail Keywords Should be Combined
Keywords are an essential part of improving SEO and ranking higher. Only 1% of users will look at the second page of search results, so ensuring your site ranks is imperative to engagement.
Combining long and short-tail keywords in your SEO strategy is essential for maximising both traffic and conversions. Short-tail keywords drive high volumes of traffic by targeting broad, high-interest topics. While these users may not convert immediately, ranking for short-tail keywords boosts your website’s visibility and builds brand awareness among a wide audience.
On the other hand, long-tail keywords target more specific queries, which usually indicate a clear intent to take action. By combining both types, you cover a full spectrum of user intent. This balanced approach helps you drive consistent traffic and improve search engine rankings. It ultimately increases your chances of turning visitors into customers.
Your Guide to Keyword Optimisation
Using keywords efficiently and effectively is integral to maintaining your online presence. Up-to-date keyword research can keep your site ranking higher, attract more customers and increase conversions. However, ensuring you are targeting the right words can be difficult.
At practiceedge, our team of experts have years of experience using the latest data and insights to optimise websites with relevant keywords. We can help you navigate every aspect of search engine optimisation to ensure your business is in the best position. Don’t hesitate to contact us, so we can start boosting your online presence today.
