Long tail keywords or what also known as keyword phrases should always be one of the main focus when optimizing a web page for the search engines as well as for the users. This is due to the fact that long keywords are often able to deliver better end results because they tend to be more specific and relevant, unlike shorter keywords which are generally too open ended and are harder to compete with larger established websites.
Let's take a look at a few quick examples here. Short keywords like "web designer" and "design company" are obviously too generic and if you notice the number of total results, there are over 70 to 200 millions of them, which means it is definitely not easy to get a site listed in the first page of the SERP.
Now if you are the one looking for a local web design company for your new website, would you just simply search for a "design company" in the internet? Most people who are searching for the information they want tend to be more specific when keying in their search terms, so it is more likely that longer keywords like "web design company Orlando" and "web designer in Orlando" are used.
We can easily find the popularity of any keyword phrases using most keyword tools however experienced SEO specialists must know more than just that. Targeted keyword phrases are best placed at the front of the meta title tag and URL of the particular web page and good use of keywords in heading or header tags, and meta description tags can also provide a better result.
Most important of all is that the particular web page provides good quality content that benefits users and readers so that naturally people will start supporting and linking back to it. SEO specialists must practice good use of both long tail and short tail keywords and place them in an appropriate manner while writing a piece of content. Always remember not to overuse or spam the keywords all over the page itself, it will only annoy readers and search engines.

