Long-Tail Keywords for Non-Technical Founders
Long-tail keywords are specific, longer phrases that people use when searching for something online. Unlike short, broad keywords like “marketing,” long-tail keywords are more detailed, such as “best digital marketing strategies for small businesses.” These keywords are easier to rank for and attract users with clear intent.
If you are a non-technical founder, understanding long-tail keywords can help you drive more relevant traffic to your website without needing deep SEO knowledge.
| Fact/Statistic | Figure/Value | Additional Information |
|---|---|---|
| Average Conversion Rate Increase | 12-15% higher | Long-tail keywords generally capture more targeted traffic, leading to higher conversions. |
| Keyword Competition Reduction | Up to 70% less | These keywords face lower competition, making it easier for non-technical founders to rank. |
| Monthly Search Volume (per keyword) | 50-300 searches | While individual keywords have modest volumes, they collectively drive significant traffic. |
| Cost-Per-Click (CPC) Reduction | 50-70% lower | Lower CPCs make paid search campaigns more cost-effective when using long-tail keywords. |
| Ranking Speed Improvement | 3-6 months to top 10 | Niche targeting with long-tail keywords can result in faster ranking improvements. |
Why Long-Tail Keywords Matter
Most online searches are highly specific. Users searching with detailed phrases are looking for precise solutions. That’s where long-tail keywords come in. They align with user intent and drive quality traffic to your site.
Some key advantages include:
- Higher conversion rates: Users searching with long-tail keywords often have a clear intent to take action.
- Less competition: Fewer websites are targeting long-tail keywords, making it easier to rank.
- Better engagement: Content that answers specific queries keeps visitors on your site longer.
- Lower advertising costs: If you run PPC campaigns, bidding on long-tail keywords is more cost-effective.
Why Non-Technical Founders Should Focus on Long-Tail Keywords
As a startup founder, you may not have the resources to compete with large companies for highly competitive keywords. However, long-tail keywords can help you:
- Attract highly targeted traffic – People searching with specific terms are more likely to convert.
- Reduce competition – Fewer websites are competing for long-tail keywords.
- Improve search rankings – Google favors content that directly answers users’ queries.
- Save money on paid ads – Long-tail keywords usually have lower costs per click (CPC) in Google Ads.
Additionally, since long-tail keywords closely match user intent, they often result in higher engagement, longer time spent on your website, and more conversions.
How to Find the Right Long-Tail Keywords for Your Startup
Finding the right long-tail keywords doesn’t require advanced SEO skills. Follow these simple methods:
| Method | Description | Example |
|---|---|---|
| Google Autocomplete | Type a broad keyword in Google, and see suggested longer searches. | “Best CRM software for small businesses” |
| People Also Ask | Check the “People Also Ask” section on Google for more search ideas. | “How does CRM help small businesses?” |
| Keyword Tools | Use free tools like Ubersuggest, AnswerThePublic, or Google Keyword Planner. | “Affordable CRM software for startups” |
Additional Ways to Discover Long-Tail Keywords
- Competitor Analysis: Check what keywords your competitors rank for using tools like SEMrush and Ahrefs.
- Forum and Community Discussions: Platforms like Quora and Reddit often reveal real user search patterns.
- Customer Feedback: Pay attention to common questions your customers ask about your product or service.
- Social Media Hashtags and Trends: Twitter and LinkedIn can provide insights into industry-specific searches.
Best Tools to Identify Long-Tail Keywords (No Tech Skills Needed!)
Here are some beginner-friendly tools to help you find the best long-tail keywords:
- Google Keyword Planner – A free tool to discover search volumes and keyword ideas.
- Ubersuggest – Provides keyword suggestions, difficulty scores, and search volume.
- AnswerThePublic – Generates questions and phrases based on user searches.
- SEMrush/Ahrefs – Paid tools offering in-depth SEO analysis and keyword data.
- Keyword Surfer – A browser extension that provides keyword insights directly in search results.
- LSIGraph – Helps identify Latent Semantic Indexing (LSI) keywords related to your primary search term.
Using these tools, you can find relevant long-tail keywords that match your audience’s search behavior.
SEO Basics: Using Long-Tail Keywords to Outrank Competitors
Once you identify the right keywords, it’s important to use them strategically:
- Include them in your blog titles and headings – This helps Google understand your content.
- Use them naturally in your content – Avoid keyword stuffing; write naturally.
- Optimize your URLs – Make your URLs include keywords (e.g., yoursite.com/best-crm-for-startups).
- Add keywords to image alt text – This helps search engines index your images.
- Use internal linking – Link-related pages to keep visitors on your site longer.
- Leverage meta descriptions – Craft compelling meta descriptions that include long-tail keywords to boost click-through rates.
How Long-Tail Keywords Can Drive More Targeted Leads to Your Startup
Long-tail keywords bring in users who are searching for specific solutions. These visitors are more likely to engage with your content, sign up for newsletters, or make purchases.
For example, consider these two searches:
- Short keyword: “CRM software”
- Long-tail keyword: “Best CRM software for small businesses under $50/month”
The first search is broad, attracting users at different stages of interest. The second search is specific, bringing in people actively looking for a budget-friendly CRM solution.
Content Marketing for Non-Technical Founders: A Keyword-Driven Approach
A simple content strategy for using long-tail keywords includes:
- Blog Posts: Write in-depth articles answering specific queries.
- FAQs: Address common industry-related questions.
- Product Descriptions: Optimize your product pages with long-tail keywords.
- Social Media Content: Use keyword-rich descriptions and hashtags.
- Guest Blogging: Write articles on other websites and include relevant keywords.
- Video Content Optimization: Include keywords in video titles and descriptions.
By consistently creating keyword-rich content, your website can attract and retain more visitors.
Real-World Examples: How Startups Use Long-Tail Keywords for Growth
Here’s how startups effectively use long-tail keywords:
| Startup | Long-Tail Keyword Used | Result Achieved |
|---|---|---|
| Online Course Platform | “Best online course platforms for teachers” | Increased organic traffic by 70% |
| E-commerce Store | “Affordable organic skincare products for sensitive skin” | 3X increase in product sales |
| SaaS Company | “How to automate email marketing for small businesses” | Higher sign-ups for free trials |
These examples show that using the right keywords can directly impact business growth.
Common Mistakes Non-Tech Founders Make with Keyword Strategy
Many non-technical founders make the following SEO mistakes:
- Ignoring long-tail keywords – Focusing only on broad, high-competition terms.
- Not optimizing content – Using keywords without proper placement.
- Writing for search engines, not people – Keyword stuffing leads to poor user experience.
- Skipping analytics – Not tracking which keywords bring traffic and conversions.
Avoid these mistakes by conducting proper research and focusing on high-intent, user-friendly content.
Next Steps: Implementing a Long-Tail Keyword Strategy for Your Business
Follow these steps to start using long-tail keywords effectively:
- Identify keyword opportunities – Use Google and keyword tools to find relevant long-tail keywords.
- Plan your content – Create blog posts, FAQs, and landing pages based on these keywords.
- Optimize your website – Ensure your website content, images, and URLs include these keywords.
- Monitor and adjust – Use Google Analytics and SEO tools to track performance and make improvements.
By focusing on long-tail keywords, non-technical founders can compete with larger businesses, improve their search rankings, and attract more high-intent customers.
FAQs
What are long-tail keywords?
Long-tail keywords are longer, more specific search phrases that target niche audiences. They typically have lower competition and higher conversion rates compared to short, broad keywords.
Why should non-technical founders focus on long-tail keywords?
Long-tail keywords help startups attract highly targeted traffic without needing advanced SEO skills. They improve search rankings, lower ad costs, and bring in visitors who are more likely to convert.
How do I find long-tail keywords for my business?
You can use tools like Google Autocomplete, Google Keyword Planner, Ubersuggest, AnswerThePublic, and SEMrush. Checking forums, social media, and competitor websites also helps.
Are long-tail keywords better than short keywords?
Yes, for most startups and small businesses. Long-tail keywords are easier to rank for, drive more qualified traffic, and have a higher chance of leading to conversions.
How can I use long-tail keywords in my content?
Include them naturally in your blog titles, headings, meta descriptions, product descriptions, FAQs, and image alt text. Avoid keyword stuffing—use them where they fit naturally.
Do long-tail keywords help with paid ads?
Yes! They lower your cost-per-click (CPC) in Google Ads and other PPC campaigns because they are less competitive. They also ensure your ads reach people with high intent to buy.
How long should a long-tail keyword be?
There is no fixed length, but long-tail keywords typically contain three or more words. They should be detailed enough to reflect specific user intent.
How often should I update my long-tail keyword strategy?
Regularly check keyword trends, search rankings, and user behavior. Updating your strategy every few months ensures your content stays relevant and competitive.
Can I rank on Google using only long-tail keywords?
Yes! Many startups grow their organic traffic by focusing on long-tail keywords. Over time, ranking for multiple long-tail keywords can significantly boost your overall SEO performance.
How do I track the performance of my long-tail keywords?
Use Google Analytics, Google Search Console, or SEO tools like Ahrefs and SEMrush to monitor keyword rankings, organic traffic, and conversion rates.
Conclusion
Long-tail keywords are a game-changer for startups, especially for non-technical founders who want to drive traffic without deep SEO knowledge. By understanding and implementing these keywords, you can attract the right audience, reduce advertising costs, and grow your business sustainably.
Start today by identifying the best long-tail keywords for your niche and creating content that directly answers your customers’ questions!
