subject: Long Tail Keyword Research – Find Phrases Buyers Use [print this page] Internet marketers are constantly trying to find phrases buyers use in search engines. That's one reason long tail keyword research has become such an important skill to master.
Long tail keywords are phrases that expand on general search terms. They are broader terms, but have the effect of narrowing the search parameters.
For example, "cars that go fast" would be considered a long tail keyword. "Cars" would not.
"Long tail keyword research" is itself a long tail keyword. "Keyword," by itself, is not.
In general, longer search phrases are used by people looking for more specific items. Someone who searches for "golf clubs" or even "drivers" is probably just gathering general information about whether or not they want to take up the game. Someone who searches for "Oversized driver with stiff shaft" is probably looking for a specific type of club. If they use a brand name, that's even more likely.
Finding long tail keywords is not difficult. The first step is to think about variations of the general keyword. Brainstorming about those terms can help you narrow the focus.
Keyword tools like the free versions provided by search engines can also be helpful. You start by searching for the generic term. Then use the results to hone in on longer phrases. This might take several searches to get more precise wording.
Internet marketers work hard to find long tail keywords because buyers often use them and they often have less competition.
Many people use longer phrases when they are looking for items to buy online. Someone searching for a "10 megapixel SLR digital camera with a telephoto lens" is probably much closer to a purchase than someone who just searches for a "digital camera."
The more lengthy phrases are also searched less often, but there is usually less competition among marketers.
Think of all the different brands of cameras. Chances are that nearly every one of those companies has an affiliate program for Internet marketers. The major brands might have more affiliates, but also more potential customers.
The same is true for most every product on the market. Resourceful internet marketers can use long tail keyword research to find phrases buyers use.
Long Tail Keyword Research Find Phrases Buyers Use
