SEO is a big part of any marketing plan, and it’s one that evolves often. When Google’s algorithm to favor websites that have been optimized for mobile users was introduced, we saw the entire sector shift towards a “mobile-first” approach to avoid potential fines from the new algorithm.
So, what’s next? Voice search, of course. That’s correct, voice search. Don’t be alarmed if voice search becomes a more common SEO technique in 2022 and beyond.
What Is Voice Search?
Smart home devices are an increasingly common sight, and voice search is one of the most used features. This technology allows you to talk to a device, such as a smartphone, laptop, or smart home device in order to make a request or look for information rather than conducting a text-based search. Voice assistants are the voices found within these devices that provide you with the information you ask for.
The Benefits of Voice Search for Businesses
As a small business, you may be wondering how voice search can help you and your marketing efforts. Here are four key benefits:
1. Increased Efficiency
If you’ve ever conducted a text-based search on your phone, you know that it can be a bit of a pain, especially if you’re trying to do it while you’re on the go. With voice search, all you need to do is ask your question and wait for a response. This hands-free approach is the new norm. Simply Be Found can help you get found on voice search, which is valuable for businesses wanting more business in their local area.
2. Better Customer Service
If your website is optimized for voice search, it’ll be easier for customers to find the answers they’re looking for – and they’ll be able to find them faster. This can lead to improved customer service and a better overall experience for your website’s visitors.
3. Higher Conversions
When customers have a positive experience on your website, they’re more likely to convert into leads or customers. If voice search makes it easier for them to find what they’re looking for, there’s a good chance they’ll do business with you.
4. Improved Branding:
Voice search is still a relatively new technology, which means that not many businesses are using it yet. If you optimize your website for voice search, you’ll be ahead of the curve – and you’ll be able to improve your branding in the process.
These are just some of the benefits that voice search can offer your small business. As this technology continues to evolve, we expect to see even more benefits appear, so it’s definitely worth considering as you develop your SEO strategy.
What Devices Are Considered Voice Search?
- Amazon Alexa: A voice assistant on countless Amazon products such as Echo, Echo Show, and Fire TV
- Google Assistant: A voice assistant on Google products like Google Home, Google Mini, and Google Home Hub
- Apple Siri: A voice assistant on Apple products such as iPhones, iPads, and Apple Watch
- Bixby: A voice assistant on Samsung products such as Galaxy phones, Galaxy Watches, and Galaxy Home
- Cortana: A voice assistant on Microsoft products such as Xbox, Surface Headphones, and the Harman Kardon Invoke
Understanding how to use voice search to maximize your site’s success is critical in 2022
According to Google’s CEO, Sundar Pichai, 20% of search inquiries are done using voice. Voice searches are becoming increasingly popular as a result of two reasons, they’re faster and more natural. People use their voices not just for information but also for entertainment and to control smart devices in their homes. With the rise of digital assistants, such as Amazon Alexa, Google Home, and Apple Siri, it’s no wonder that voice search is on the rise.
- Play music
- Play games
- Shopping
- Set daily reminders
- Make a phone call
How Will Voice Search Affect My Business
Voice searches often return different results than text-based searches. It’s important for businesses to be on the lookout for their customers who are adapting and switching to voice searching as an alternative medium. Search engines that use voice searches, like Google and Bing, require more than just a good keyword list. Voice search may be used to access information from any website via the microphone on your phone or tablet. The language of the content should be optimized for voice because it will sync with search queries. This will help to keep consumers interested by still being current.
Who Uses Voice Search
People of all ages, as well as children and older audiences, have turned to voice search for information, according to an All Business story. The statistics, on the other hand, show that firms need to use voice search to target younger customers.
- 76% of consumers ages 18 to 34 had used voice search to find information for a local business within the last year
- 64% of consumers ages 35 to 54 had used voice search to find information for a local business within the last year
- 37% of consumers ages 55 and older had used voice search to find information for a local business within the last year
Typical Actions Taken by Voice Search Consumers
Unlike a call-to-action button on a website, voice search motivates consumers to act. Here are some of the potential consequences after someone does a voice search.
- 28% of consumers call the business
- 27% visit the business’s website
- 19% visit the business in person
- 15% look up the business hours
- 12% look up directions to the business
- 11% learn more about the products or services offered by the business
- 10% make a reservation
- 7% find a coupon or special offer
As you can see, voice search can directly affect your business in several ways. It’s important to keep in mind that people use voice searches for different purposes than text-based searches. A study conducted by Think with Google showed that 70% of voice search users look for local businesses daily, and 47% of them visit stores within five miles of their current location. Voice searches are also three times more likely to be action-oriented than text searches, which means that they’re more likely to lead to conversions.
How Do I Optimize for Voice Search
The first step is to ensure that your website is mobile-friendly. More than half of all searches are done on mobile devices, and the trend is only increasing. It’s important to have a responsive design that can adapt to different screen sizes. You should also make sure that your site loads quickly, otherwise you risk losing potential customers.
Another way to optimize voice search is by using long-tail keywords. These are specific and usually four words or more. They’re often questions that people ask when they’re looking for information. For example, “What is the best Italian restaurant near me?” or “What are the business hours for XYZ company?” Long-tail keywords are more likely to be used in voice searches because they’re specific and conversational.
You should also focus on creating content that is natural and easy to read. This means using short sentences and simple words. When it comes to voice search, people are looking for quick answers to their questions. They’re not going to want to sift through confusing language to find the information they need.
How Simply Be Found Helps You Get Found by More Local Customers on Voice Search?
Getting your local business found by voice search is an important aspect of running a profitable business. Simply Be Found shows you how to optimize your profile with our step-by-step plan in 5 minutes a day. We make sure that your website is listed on directories like Google My Business and Bing. If your business isn’t listed on these directories, you’re missing out on a valuable opportunity to reach potential customers. You can generate reviews, respond to reviews and showcase your reviews to all of your platforms to improve your rankings online and get found locally at the top of local voice searches.
Simply Be Found helps you get more market share by helping you make sure your address and operating hours are correct across search engines so potential consumers can find you online. We help you make sure that your business information is updated and consistent, as it will impact your local SEO (Search Engine Optimization). As a member of Simply Be Found, you will have a well-executed local SEO strategy, to ensure that your potential customers see your business first on local search, directories, maps, and social media when they are searching for you in your local area. Start your 7-day trial and start seeing your business getting found by more customers.
