In the digital era, the way we access information is continuously evolving. From typing queries into a search engine, we have moved to simply asking our questions out loud, thanks to the advancement of voice recognition technology. The rise of voice search has significant implications for businesses and their web presence. In this blog post, we’ll explore the growing prevalence of voice search, its impact on SEO, and why it’s crucial for businesses to optimise their websites for this trend.
Understanding Voice Search
Voice search refers to the action of using voice recognition technology to perform a search on the internet. Users can ask their smartphones, computers, or smart speakers a question out loud, and the device will return an answer from the web.
Devices like Google Home, Amazon’s Alexa, and Apple’s Siri have made voice search increasingly popular. It’s not just these devices though; people are utilising voice search more on their smartphones too. According to a PWC report, 71% of respondents would rather use their voice to search than traditional typing.
The convenience and hands-free nature of voice search make it especially attractive. It’s easier to speak than type, especially when multitasking or on the move. As voice recognition technology becomes more advanced and accurate, the usage of voice search is expected to rise further.
Impact on SEO
The increasing use of voice search has significant implications for Search Engine Optimisation (SEO). Voice searches differ from typed queries in several ways:
Long-tail Keywords: People tend to use more words when speaking than typing. Consequently, voice searches are usually longer and more conversational. They often resemble how people naturally speak, which is typically in complete sentences or questions. This trend suggests a greater importance for long-tail keywords in SEO strategy.
Question Phrases: Since many voice searches are phrased as questions, your website should be optimised to answer those questions effectively. This means creating content that matches the conversational tone and question-oriented phrasing of voice search.
Local Searches: Voice searches are often locally focused. For example, users might ask, “Where is the nearest coffee shop?” Businesses, especially those with a local presence, need to ensure they are visible in these local search results.
Preparing Your Website for Voice Search
So, how can businesses optimise their websites for voice search? Here are some strategies:
1. Use Conversational Language: Since voice searches are more conversational, your website’s content should reflect this. Write in a natural, engaging tone and try to answer the questions your target audience may ask.
2. Optimise for Local SEO: If you have a local business, ensure your website is optimised for local SEO. This includes having a Google My Business listing, using local keywords, and including your address and opening hours on your website.
3. Leverage Long-Tail Keywords: Incorporate long-tail keywords into your content. These are more specific and can help you rank for voice searches.
4. Use Schema Markup: This is a type of microdata that helps search engines understand your content better. It can help your website stand out in search results and increase the likelihood of being chosen as the answer for a voice search.
In conclusion, voice search is not just a passing trend; it’s an evolving reality of digital search habits. Businesses must adapt their SEO strategies to remain visible and viable in the voice search era. By understanding and implementing these practices, businesses can future-proof their online presence and stay ahead of the curve.
