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How to Find Long-Tail Keywords for eCommerce Ads

  • Anirban Sen
  • Apr 11
  • 5 min read

Updated: Apr 12

Long-tail keywords are the secret to better eCommerce ads. These specific search phrases (like "men's waterproof trail running shoes size 11") help you connect with shoppers who are ready to buy. Here's why they matter:

  • Higher Conversions: They target people with clear purchase intent.
  • Lower Costs: Less competition means lower cost-per-click (CPC).
  • Better Ad Relevance: They match user intent, improving click-through rates and conversions.

To find them, use tools like Google Keyword Planner, analyze search query reports, and leverage Google's autocomplete and related searches. Once you have your keywords, organize them into focused ad groups, write specific ad copy, and ensure your landing pages match the intent.

Regularly review performance metrics like CTR, conversion rates, and CPA to refine your strategy. Long-tail keywords can boost your ROI while cutting unnecessary ad spend.


What Makes Long-Tail Keywords Different


Definition and Examples

Long-tail keywords are detailed search phrases, usually made up of three or more words, that focus on niche audiences with a clear intent to purchase. Unlike general terms like "sneakers" or "handbags", these keywords reflect specific customer needs. For instance, instead of searching for "laptop", someone might look up "15-inch gaming laptop under $1,000", which shows a more refined intent.

This level of detail helps filter out casual browsers and connects you with shoppers who are ready to buy.

These targeted queries not only reflect clear intent but also deliver strong results for eCommerce campaigns.


Benefits for eCommerce

Long-tail keywords come with several advantages that can help eCommerce advertisers improve their campaign performance and maximize ad spend.

  • Lower CompetitionFewer advertisers bid on these keywords, which reduces cost-per-click (CPC). Plus, targeting shoppers with clear intent often leads to better conversion rates.
  • Better Ad PerformanceFocusing on specific queries can lead to higher click-through rates, lower advertising costs, and stronger overall results.
  • Precise Customer TargetingThese keywords help you reach shoppers at critical buying stages. For example, a search like "best ergonomic office chair for lower back pain" suggests the person is actively seeking a solution and may be close to purchasing.
"Senwired restructured McNeela Music's Google paid marketing efforts, including consolidating old campaigns and optimizing market-specific campaigns. This resulted in increased revenue and ROI across all advertising channels and geographic markets."
  • Alignment with Search IntentLong-tail keywords naturally match specific customer needs. They can highlight particular product features, fit budget-focused searches, address niche use cases, and target specific customer groups. This alignment ensures your ads deliver the right message to the right audience.

How To Do Keyword Research For Ecommerce Using ...


5 Methods to Find Long-Tail Keywords

Finding long-tail keywords for your eCommerce campaigns takes a mix of tools and strategies. Here's how you can identify keyword opportunities to boost your efforts.


Using Google Keyword Planner

Google Keyword Planner's "Discover New Keywords" feature is a great place to start. Enter your main product keywords and use filters to find more precise phrases.

Here’s how to refine your search:

  • Add product-specific details like features or materials, and apply location filters.
  • Adjust competition filters to spot keywords with lower competition.

For instance, instead of a broad term like "running shoes", you could target:

  • "women's cushioned shoes"
  • "lightweight marathon shoes"
  • "stability shoes for overpronation"

Analyzing Search Query Reports

Google Ads search query reports can reveal the exact terms people use when searching for your products. These reports are a goldmine for finding new long-tail keywords.

To make the most of them:

  • Look for frequently used terms that align with your products.
  • Identify patterns in how customers describe features or express their needs.
  • Add relevant keywords to your campaigns using exact or phrase match types.

Pair these insights with Google's search tools to uncover even more niche keywords.


Leveraging Google Search Features

Google's search interface offers free tools to expand your keyword list. These features include:

  • Autocomplete Suggestions: Type in your product keywords and see what Google suggests.
  • "People Also Ask" Section: Use this for keyword ideas tied to common questions.
  • Related Searches: Scroll to the bottom of search results for additional suggestions.

These tools can help you find specific phrases that resonate with your audience.


Adding Long-Tail Keywords to Your Ads


Organizing Ad Groups

Creating focused ad groups is key to making long-tail keywords work effectively. Group related keywords that share a similar intent or describe similar product features. This setup improves targeting and boosts campaign results.

For example, organize ad groups around specific product variations:

  • "men's waterproof trail running shoes"
  • "women's cushioned marathon shoes"
  • "kids' lightweight running shoes"

Once you've grouped your keywords, make sure your ad copy aligns with the intent of each group for better relevance.


Writing Specific Ad Copy

With organized ad groups, craft ad copy that directly reflects the intent and language of each keyword group. This improves both relevance and click-through rates.

Here’s how to do it:

  • Use the exact long-tail keyword in your headline when possible.
  • Address specific needs or features tied to the keyword.
  • Highlight a unique selling point that connects with the search intent.
  • Include a clear call-to-action that fits the keyword’s purpose.

For instance, if you're targeting "women's cushioned marathon shoes", a strong ad headline might be: "Women's Marathon Shoes | Enhanced Cushioning for Comfort".


Landing Page Setup

Your landing page should continue the focused messaging of your ad copy. It needs to deliver on the promise made by your long-tail keywords and ads, which is critical for improving conversions.

Here are some tips to get it right:

  • Showcase the exact product or category mentioned in the keyword.
  • Provide detailed, relevant content, including product specs, high-quality images, and customer reviews.
  • Make the purchase process simple with clear calls-to-action.
  • Naturally include the long-tail keyword in your headlines and page content.

Measuring Long-Tail Keyword Results

Once you've added long-tail keywords to your ads, it's time to see how they're performing.


Key Metrics to Watch

Keep an eye on these metrics to understand how well your long-tail keywords are working:

  • Click-Through Rate (CTR): A high CTR shows that your keywords are relevant and your ads are engaging.
  • Conversion Rates: Look at the full journey - from visits to add-to-cart actions to completed purchases.
  • Cost Per Acquisition (CPA): Compare your CPA to your target to ensure you're spending efficiently.

Regular Keyword Reviews

Set a schedule to review your keyword performance every 3–6 months. Use this time to analyze the metrics, identify which keywords are driving results, and adjust your strategy to match market trends. This keeps your campaigns effective and aligned with your goals.


Conclusion

Long-tail keywords are a powerful tool for running focused eCommerce campaigns. By targeting specific, intent-driven search terms, you can boost your campaign's ROI and cut down on unnecessary ad spend.

To make the most of these strategies, it's important to keep refining your approach. Regularly reviewing keyword performance helps you stay in tune with market trends and shifts in customer behavior. Using advanced tools for keyword research, intent mapping, and audience targeting allows you to create campaigns that truly resonate with your audience.

Here are some key tactics to include in your strategy:

  • Optimize product feeds to improve visibility in search results.
  • Develop dynamic search strategies that adapt to changing trends.
  • Fine-tune conversion paths to make the customer journey smoother.
  • Track performance metrics to identify what's working and what needs adjustment.

This method not only drives better-qualified traffic but also makes your advertising budget work harder. With consistent optimization, you can achieve higher conversion rates and more efficient ad spending.


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