As a newcomer to SEO, I have been researching extensively on the topic. Many guides suggest focusing on long-tail keywords when starting out, but they often don't clarify what exactly qualifies as a long-tail keyword.I have been utilizing semrush’s free keyword analysis tool, but I am struggling to determine the threshold for what constitutes a long-tail keyword. I have been targeting keywords with a competitiveness of less than 30, but these keywords typically have low search volume, less than 1k. Despite my efforts, I have not seen significant traffic to my blog over the past month. Could it be because I am targeting keywords with insufficient search volume?
I am curious to know how you incorporate long-tail keywords into your strategy for a new blog and how you personally define a long-tail keyword.
Long-tail keywords are phrases with three or more words that are more specific and less competitive than short-tail keywords. They often reflect a user’s specific intent and can be more effective for driving traffic to a new blog. While a search volume of less than 1,000 may seem low, it’s crucial to consider the overall competition for those terms. A keyword with a lower search volume and low competition can still be valuable, especially for a new blog.
Instead of focusing solely on the search volume, consider the relevance of the keyword to your content. A long-tail keyword with a low search volume but high relevance to your blog is likely to attract a more qualified audience.
For a new blog, it’s essential to strike a balance between targeting long-tail keywords with low competition and high relevance and incorporating some shorter, more general keywords to build broader visibility.
While tools like Semrush can provide insights into keyword competition and search volume, remember that they are only one part of the equation. Your own understanding of your target audience and the content you create will ultimately determine the effectiveness of your keyword strategy.