Still focusing on head terms in your SEO? Users these days are adjusting their queries to more conversational searches. They look for answers, not keywords so it’s time to optimize your site for long-tail terms. To effectively execute this approach, here are some points to consider.
1. Shift slowly
- Long-tail keywords will convert better but don’t entirely replace your head terms.
- Consider long-tail keyword optimization supplemental.
- Head terms are still the key to phrase-level micro-targeting.
2. Keep in mind that searches are unique.
- Every customer will search in a different way.
- Find the commonalities or trends in searches.
- Optimize phrase and expression trends within your long-tail terms.
3. Use several keyword research tools.
- Don’t stop digging too soon.
- More keyword discovery means better chances to find a trend.
- Combine tools to diversify and expand your keyword pool.
- Compare keywords with competitors.
4. Pay attention to common phrases or expressions.
- Discover similarities between keywords so you can narrow your options despite the variety of keywords.
- Put expressions together in usable combinations.
5. Analyze and adjust.
- Check current content on site before jumping into new content creation.
- Adjust existing pages, from title tags, H1 tags, alt tags, etc to contain the micro-target keyword phrases.
- Optimize content and elements that are already live on site.
6. Craft your content
- Make specific and unique content targeting your long-tail expressions.
- Organize your long-tail terms into relevant categories.
The long-tail keyword targeting is a simple approach that can drive your site up on search results.