It’s easier to say something by voice search than type it. Texting is dangerous and illegal when on the road, so it makes more sense to speak your question. Moving through the day, for most folks, means multitasking, and voice search gets people the information they need now.
Voice search is not a fad. Over 40 percent of adults searched by voice in 2016, and more than 50 percent of searches will be spoken, instead of typed, by 2020. Now is the time to optimize your website for voice search.
Location Tops Voice Search
So, you’re always on the go, and so are your consumers. Location, location location: it still matters. Think about it. What do most of your online searches consist of? Where to find something locally, be it a product or a place.
Utilizing local keywords is an excellent way to attract new customers and should be incorporated into your SEO strategy. So, how would you ask for what you’re searching for aloud? So, integrate these keywords into your optimization strategy, as these spoken searches are three times more likely to be based in a local area.
Also, many business owners wonder how to make the first page of Google when all the best keywords are taken. Even with voice search. It comes down to location. People are searching for what’s nearby, now. The more specific you are with your keywords, the more likely these searchers will find you.
Best Optimization Practices for Voice Search
So, how do you do it? How do you create the best optimization practices for voice search?
Also, connect your specific location with keywords as frequently as it feels natural. Always update your current contact and location information on relevant online profiles, such as your Yelp and Google Business pages.
1. Verbalizing vs. Typing
What a prospective visitor types into the search engine will differ from what they say out loud. Verbalizing a need may sound like: “I need to find a hotel close to the airport in London.” Opposed to that, a typed online search may look like “hotels near airport London.” People abbreviate in a rush, so your optimization tactics must take that into account for keywords.
So, beyond keywords, people are used to voice search assistants like Siri. A spoken search would sound more like: “What hotels are close to the airport in London?”
Google calls for using more natural language. So, you need to think more in line with the kinds of questions people would natural ask that would involve your target keywords. And, utilize long-tail keyword phrases that are conversational.
2. Places to Include Natural Language Online
Where do you include more natural, conversational language online? Focus on your About and your FAQ pages. Mirror your FAQ after natural questions. Common questions appear at the top of Google’s searches (voice search too), and your FAQ pages could make that list. Google Assistant and Google Home also read out featured snippets as they answer queries, so focus on getting to the top. Lists are commonly prioritized by Google in these features.
Again, don’t discount exterior database listings and social and business profiles. Keep your shipping, delivery, hours of operation, products, and services updated.
Integrate those location-based, long-tail keyword phrases into articles and blog posts. Engaging, fresh copy will help answer customer questions and give them ideas about how you do business.
When you type or speak a query, you may see the “People also ask” suggestion. If your question is a little different than usual, Google helps provide more queries to support your search. Think in relative terms, and don’t use complicated language. Accessibility and conversation are more likely to engage prospective customers.
Focus on incorporating these strategies into your optimization efforts to boost sales, traffic, and leads. The technology for voice search continues to increase. And the more you focus on optimization for it in the now, the more growth you will see well into the long-term.