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The Power of Broad and Long-Tail Keywords

Jailyn Glass, marketing manager at Perfect Afternoon
Jailyn Glass

Digital marketing has become the cornerstone of modern business practices. From brand exposure to generating revenue, the online space has been the go-to platform for businesses aiming to widen their reach and grow their audience base. If you’re an owner, a CCO, or part of the C-suite, understanding the basics of broad and long-tail keywords and their usage can significantly aid in creating a successful digital marketing strategy.

What are broad and long-tail keywords?

At the core of search engines are keywords — the specific terms users input when seeking services or solutions. These keywords fall into two main categories: broad and long-tail.

Broad keywords have a high search volume, typically one or two words long. They represent overarching topics in an industry. In the context of construction, think of terms like “construction” or “industrial equipment.”

Conversely, long-tail keywords are extended, specific phrases that users deploy when nearing a purchasing decision or using voice search. Examples include “commercial construction companies in Michigan” or “heavy-duty industrial cranes for rent.”

Why are they important?

Broad Keywords:

  • Drive significant traffic.
  • Boost brand visibility.
  • Face stiff competition due to their broad nature.

Long-Tail Keywords:

  • Zero in on niche audiences.
  • Often result in higher conversion rates.
  • Less competitive, enhancing chances of top search rankings.


Relevant Examples

For a construction company:

Broad terms in construction, such as “Construction” and “Building materials,” cover a vast range of services, making them highly competitive. However, specialized services yield long-tail keywords like “Residential construction services in [City Name],” addressing specific needs in distinct locations. “Green building materials for sustainable homes” captures the attention of eco-conscious clientele, while “Custom commercial construction solutions” resonates with businesses requiring unique infrastructure solutions.

For an industrial equipment supplier:

Terms like “Industrial equipment” and “Machinery” are often the starting points for potential clients in the industrial sector. However, more tailored needs lead to specific keywords. “Hydraulic pumps for marine applications” focuses on a distinct requirement. “Safety-certified welding machinery for aerospace” offers assurance on safety standards, and “24/7 technical support for industrial freezers” emphasizes relentless support, crucial for businesses where downtimes are costly.

By mastering the art of keyword distinctions, businesses in construction and the industrial realm can formulate compelling content and ad strategies, targeting the right audience segments.

Tailoring Your Digital Marketing Strategy

Broad keywords are fantastic for short-term paid advertising campaigns, especially when increasing brand awareness. Long-tail keywords, on the other hand, are brilliant for SEO efforts, aiming for organic search rankings over the long term. The key lies in striking the right balance between the two.

Given keyword research’s complexity and ever-changing nature, it’s understandable if this seems daunting. The good news? You don’t have to navigate it alone.

Let our agency guide your way

Your business deserves the best digital marketing strategy that’s tailored to your unique needs. Let Perfect Afternoon be your partner in this journey. With our dedicated SEO services and a team of professionals, we are well-equipped to guide your brand to online success.

Interested in learning more about how we can supercharge your digital presence? Contact us today, and let’s embark on this digital journey together!

Photo Credit: Envato Elements

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