Short-Tail and Long-Tail Keywords: What’s The Difference?

Keyword selection is a major component of a successful SEO strategy. Keywords help potential customers find your business, at which point they may choose to purchase a product or schedule a service. Proper keyword selection also enhances your website’s search rank, which ensures you reach as much of your target audience as possible.

Including short and long-tail keywords within your website is important, as these two types of search terms can work in conjunction to enhance your rank in search results.

Short-Tail Keywords

Short-tail keywords are very broad in nature and generally have a high search volume. While they’re known for generating substantial organic traffic, ranking for broad terms is extremely challenging. This is because these terms are highly competitive, meaning that lots of businesses are trying to rank for them at the same time. As a result, ranking for popular short-tail keywords can take some time.

Long-Tail Keywords

Long-tail keywords are a lot more specific than their short-tail counterparts. They’re also easier to rank for since they’re less competitive. Long-tail keywords are typically employed when a user is nearing the end of their buying journey. For example, a person might start out by searching for “socks,” but will provide more detail, such as “black men’s socks size 10,” once they’re getting close to making a purchase.

How to Strike the Right Balance Between Short and Long-Tail Keywords

Short-tail keywords must be included in your SEO strategy, but keep in mind that it may take years before your website ranks for these terms. While you’re building your strategy, you can rank for less competitive long-tail keywords to ensure a steady flow of traffic to your site. Long-tail keywords are also effective at boosting your conversion rating, as most consumers employing these terms are ready to make a purchase.

Keyword research is integral to an effective marketing strategy, and our team at SonicSEO.com uses proven methods to find the best possible search terms for your business. We also help our clients by developing informative and engaging content to offer a great experience. Contact us today for more information on services and qualifications.