Go after the big key phrases first?

Or nibble around the edges?

[dickbaker]

After reading numerous posts on this forum, I've decided to build a new website that will target one of the best-paying niches in affiliate marketing.

I know very well how much time and work is required to get a site on the first page of the SE's for a particular search term or phrase.

In the meantime, though, I wonder if it wouldn't be more profitable for me to nibble around the edges of this niche. For example, I'm certain that I could get ranked well for "[insert state here] big money advertiser," and much more quickly than if I devoted my SEO skills to getting ranked nationwide for "big money advertiser."

As I type this, I think I'm answering my own question. But I'm just looking for affirmation from those who have been successful. Nibble around the edges, take smaller money, or go straight for the heart of a competive market?

[eljefe3]

Unless you have a well seasoned website with a ton of backlinks, the best would be to go for the longer tail terms as you accumulate age and backlinks for the site.