Once a simple concept used to increase the efficiency of smartphones, voice search has evolved to accommodate smart speakers and voice assistants such as Google and Alexa. An affordable SEO solution, voice search is helping businesses to increase organic traction and first-page rankings. In this article, we’ll take you through the benefits of voice-focused SEO and how you can integrate this into your existing marketing efforts. 

Why is Voice Search So In-Demand?

Voice search assistants are renowned for their ability to help users multitask. They are also equipped with translation features and functions across various devices. Among the other advantages to voice search solutions are: 

 

  • Speed. Quicker search results mean you are quicker to rank. 
  • Convenience. Nobody likes to type in a query when they’re in a rush. Sometimes, a voice search is far more appropriate. 
  • Mobile-Responsiveness. The tipping point of voice search capabilities, mobile-friendliness is vital to the search industry. 
  • Conversational. As opposed to a desktop search, voice searches tend to be longer and more conversational, evolving the way SEO companies incorporate keywords. 
  • Local Search Listings. Commonly used for “near me” requests, businesses can get ahead of the game with voice search by providing complete information on their shops and offices online. 

 

How to Optimize Content for Voice Search

As your keyword analytics and intelligence tools change to suit voice search solutions, it’s important that you know how to best skew your content for this type of SEO. 

 

  • Optimize Content for Rich Answers

 

A rich answer refers to search results that display Google’s knowledge base (Knowledge Graph), information on specific businesses (Knowledge Box), factual information from Knowledge Graphs (Knowledge Box), and third-party information (Featured Snippet). Most smart devices will provide similar answers to particular questions to allow a user to further specify the search. 

 

  • Restructure Your Content 

 

More conversational as opposed to traditional searches, voice searches that rank provide short, precise answers that are ideally 29 words in length. Make sure to include new question keywords onto FAQ and product description pages, encouraging Google to display your content as a rich snippet. 

 

  • Use Conversational Language

 

As previously mentioned, robotic language no longer suits the average Internet user. When incorporating natural language, it’s important to understand your searcher’s intent. Consider what type of question keywords they’re using, their conversational style, what answers perform well, and what results best satisfies their queries. 

 

  • Use Long-Tail Keyword Phrases

 

Due to their conversational style, voice searches optimized for long-form complete content is often favored by Google. Be sure to include filler words such as “I”, “you”, “me”, “if”, and “and” to perform better on voice search rankings. 

 

  • Improve Your Website’s Loading Time

 

The point of voice search is to instantly gratify Internet users who don’t have time to wait. By improving the loading time on your website, you’re less likely to be at risk of higher bounce rates. To achieve this, upload compressed graphics as opposed to full-size, reduce redirects and plugins, use CSS3 and HTML5 frameworks, and consult Google Page Speed Insights. 

 

  • Don’t Neglect Mobile

 

When it comes to voice search trends, nothing is more obvious than mobile usage. To rank, your website must be mobile-responsive, covering mobile-friendly content and taking a mobile-first approach. 

 

  • Take Advantage of Google My Business Listings

 

We already recognize the popularity of “near me” searches, which means if you aren’t working on your Google My Business listing, you’re already behind. Be sure to include updated and detailed information on your business to improve your local SEO. 

Conclusion

As more Internet users turn to mobile phones to perform searches and daily tasks, taking voice search by its horns is the only way to get ahead. Consumer behaviors are always changing and it’s up to you as a business owner to catch up with the trend. 

If you haven’t already incorporated voice search capabilities into your website, link up with us at Local SEO Pro for expert SEO services that cover content creation and more!