Choosing the right keywords is essential for Malaysian businesses looking to enhance their online presence. Understanding the distinction between short-tail and long-tail keywords allows businesses to fine-tune their SEO strategy.
Short-tail keywords are broad with high search volume, while long-tail keywords are more specific and often result in higher conversion rates. This guide will explore how both types of keywords can be used effectively to attract the right audience and improve search rankings.
Key Takeaways
- Short-tail keywords are broad and have high search volume, while long-tail keywords are specific and typically have higher conversion rates.
- Keyword research aligns your content with user searches, improving visibility and driving traffic.
- Balancing both short-tail and long-tail keywords helps refine your SEO strategy and target the right audience.
- Localising keywords for the Malaysian market ensures relevance and connects with the local audience.
- Regularly updating your keyword strategy helps keep your business competitive and aligned with changing trends.
Table of Contents
What are Keywords in SEO
Keywords are terms or phrases that users enter into search engines when looking for specific information or products.
In SEO, selecting the right keywords helps businesses ensure their content aligns with what users are searching for, improving the chances of ranking higher in search results.
These keywords are integral to optimise web pages, blog posts, and other content, allowing search engines to understand and match them to relevant searches. Ultimately, keywords bridge the gap between a business’s content and the needs of its potential customers.
Key Differences: Long Tail vs Short Tail Keywords
Short-tail and long-tail keywords serve different purposes in SEO, with each offering distinct advantages depending on your goals. The table below outlines their key differences:
| Short Tail Keyword | Aspect | Long Tail Keyword |
| High search volume | Search Volume | Lower search volume, but more targeted |
| Highly competitive | Competition | Less competitive, more niche |
| Broad and general | Specificity | Highly specific and detailed |
| Lower conversion rates | Conversion Rate | Higher conversion rates due to specific user intent |
| Ideal for brand awareness and attracting general traffic | When to Use | Ideal for reaching niche audiences and driving higher conversion |
| “laptops””shoes””air conditioners” | Usage Examples | “best laptops for gaming under 5000 RM” “comfortable running shoes for flat feet” “energy-efficient air conditioners for homes in Malaysia” |
How to Find Long Tail Keywords in Malaysia & Tools to Help
Finding long tail keywords is an essential step in reaching a more targeted audience. By using specific phrases that reflect local search habits, you can effectively capture the attention of potential customers. Here are the steps to find long tail keywords in Malaysia:
1. Start with a Broad Topic
Begin by selecting a broad topic related to your business. For example, if you’re selling home appliances, the broad term could be “home appliances.” This serves as a foundation for refining your search.
2. Expand on the Main Idea with Specific Needs
Think about what customers might be looking for within the topic category that you’ve chosen. You could explore related areas like product features, specific types, or customer concerns. For instance, “energy-efficient home appliances” or “smart home appliances.”
3. Use Google Autocomplete & “People Also Ask”
Type your broad topic into Google search to see the autocomplete suggestions. These often reflect common search terms that can also provide fresh ideas.
For example, typing “energy-efficient home appliances” may show suggestions like “best energy-efficient home appliances in Malaysia” or “affordable energy-efficient home appliances.”
4. Explore Related Searches
Scroll down to the bottom of the search results page to view related searches. This step can provide you with further long-tail keyword ideas, such as “best energy-efficient refrigerators Malaysia” or “affordable washing machines in Kuala Lumpur.”
5. Check E-commerce Platforms for Local Trends
Visit popular Malaysian e-commerce platforms such as Lazada or Shopee to see what keywords are used in the product listings and descriptions.
You may come across long-tail phrases like “top-rated air conditioners for homes in Malaysia” or “cheap washing machines for small apartments.”
6. Leverage Forums and Niche Groups
Visit Malaysian forums, Facebook groups, or online communities where people discuss topics related to your niche. Look for recurring questions or phrases, such as “best home appliances for small apartments” or “which air conditioner is best for Malaysian weather.”
Want to leverage niche sites for better Google rankings? Discover these key strategies and learn how you can apply them to boost your SEO success today.
7. Use Local Keyword Tools
Use tools like Google Trends or Keyword Tool.io, which allow you to filter for Malaysian-specific search data. For example, you could search for “top home appliances Malaysia” or “buy refrigerators online Malaysia” to find long-tail keywords relevant to the local market.
Here are some other tools that can also help your keyword research process:
- Google Trends Malaysia: Track the popularity of specific search terms in Malaysia over time and across regions.
- Keyword Tool.io: Generate long-tail keyword ideas from Google, YouTube, and Shopee with a focus on local searches.
- Ubersuggest: Provides keyword suggestions, search volume, competition, and SEO difficulty, tailored to Malaysia.
- Ahrefs / Semrush: Advanced tools for competitor analysis, keyword gap research, and finding locally relevant long-tail keywords.
Common Mistakes to Avoid in Keyword Research
Effective keyword research is crucial for SEO success, but several common mistakes can hinder your efforts. These are some of the mistakes that you should be mindful of during the research process:
| Mistake | Explanation |
| Focusing Only on Short Tail Keywords | Relying too heavily on short tail keywords with high search volume can lead to high competition and low conversion rates. |
| Ignoring User Search Intent | Not considering the intent behind searches can result in attracting irrelevant traffic. |
| Not Localising Keywords for Malaysia | Failing to adapt keywords for the Malaysian market can lead to missed opportunities and lower local relevance. |
| Overstuffing Content with Keywords | Keyword stuffing can harm content quality, leading to penalties from search engines and poor user experience. |
| Not Regularly Updating Keyword Strategy | Keyword trends change over time, and not revisiting your strategy can cause missed opportunities or outdated content. |
Conclusion
Understanding the difference between short tail and long tail keywords is crucial for improving online visibility. While short tail keywords drive broad traffic, long tail keywords target specific audiences and increase conversions.
Balancing both helps businesses refine their SEO strategy, connect with the right customers, and stay updated with trends for continued success in the digital landscape.
Looking to maximise your SEO performance with a smarter keyword strategy? Let Newnormz digital marketing guide your business through precise keyword targeting tailored for the Malaysian market. Contact Newnormz today.
