Voice search is changing the way people find information online. With more users relying on virtual assistants, businesses must optimize their content for voice search SEO.
In the US and UK, 28% of consumers use voice assistants daily. That’s a huge market you don’t want to miss!
This guide will cover eight simple ways to boost your voice search rankings. You’ll learn to use conversational keywords, target featured snippets, optimize for local SEO, and more.
1. Use Conversational, Long-Tail Keywords
Voice searches sound more like natural conversations. Instead of typing “best Italian restaurant NYC,” people say, “What’s the best Italian restaurant in New York City?”
To do voice search SEO, use long-tail keywords that match how people talk. Look for question-based keywords that start with “what,” “where,” or “how.”
Example: A meal delivery service could target the phrase, “What’s the healthiest meal delivery option?” instead of just “healthy meal delivery.”
Also, consider including related questions in your content. Think about follow-up questions users might ask, like “Is meal delivery healthier than cooking at home?”
2. Optimize for Featured Snippets (Position Zero)
Featured snippets, or position zero, appear at the top of organic search results.
To increase your chances of ranking in position zero, write clear and concise answers to common questions. Use bullet points, numbered lists, or short paragraphs (40-50 words).
Example: A skincare brand could write blog posts like “How to get rid of acne scars” with a direct, easy-to-read answer at the top.
Another way to optimize for featured snippets is to format content as Q&A. Use subheadings framed as questions and provide short, informative answers below.
3. Focus on Local SEO
Many voice searches are location-based, like “coffee shops near me.” To rank for these, optimize your website for local SEO.
- Claim your Google Business Profile.
- Make sure your address, phone number, and business hours are accurate.
- Use local keywords in your content, like “best plumber in [city].”
Example: A home services company could add “near me” keywords and use LocalBusiness schema markup to improve local search rankings.
Reviews help establish trust and increase your business’s chances of appearing in voice search results.
4. Improve Website Speed
Voice search users expect fast answers. If your website is slow, they’ll leave.
Use tools like Google PageSpeed Insights to check your speed. Improve it by:
- Compressing images.
- Minifying CSS and JavaScript.
- Enabling browser caching.
Example: An eCommerce site with slow-loading product pages could optimize images and improve code efficiency to boost speed.
Additionally, consider implementing accelerated mobile pages (AMP) to enhance the mobile experience. Since many voice searches happen on mobile, faster load times can improve rankings.
5. Use Structured Data (Schema Markup)
Adding schema markup can improve your chances of ranking for voice searches. If you own a local business, use LocalBusiness, Restaurant, or Product schema to provide details like hours, address, and customer reviews.
Example: A restaurant using RestaurantSchema markup could appear in voice searches for “What’s the best sushi restaurant near me?”
Using FAQ schema is another great way to optimize for voice search. This allows Google to pull structured question-and-answer content directly from your site.
6. Write Voice-Friendly Content
Voice search content should be clear, direct, and easy to understand. Here’s how to make your content voice-friendly:
- Answer common questions directly.
- Use short sentences and simple words.
- Organize content with headers, bullet points, and numbered lists.
Example: A business with multiple locations could create separate pages for each, including maps and directions.
Consider writing in a conversational tone. Since voice searches are more natural, content that mimics spoken language is more likely to rank well.
7. Make Your Website More Accessible
Voice search is important for users with visual impairments or mobility challenges. Making your site more accessible can improve voice search rankings.
Best practices include:
- Adding alt text for images.
- Using clear anchor text for links.
- Providing captions for videos.
- Using semantic HTML markup.
A well-structured and accessible website benefits all users, not just those using voice search. Search engines also favor sites that follow accessibility best practices.
8. Take Advantage of Voice-Specific Features
New voice search features are emerging. Here are some ways to optimize for them:
- Create Alexa skills or Google Actions.
- Use speakable schema markup to highlight voice-friendly content.
- Optimize for voice shopping on platforms like Amazon.
Consider testing your content with smart devices like Google Home or Alexa. This will help you understand how well your content performs in real-world voice searches.
Final Thoughts
Voice search is not just a trend—it’s the future of online search. As technology evolves, more users will turn to voice assistants for quick answers. Businesses that optimize for voice search now will stay ahead of the competition.
The key to success is consistency. Continue refining your content, improving website speed, and optimizing for local search. Keep up with new voice search features and adjust your strategy as needed.
By following these tips, you can boost your business’s visibility in voice search results. If you need expert help with SEO and digital marketing, Cybertegic, a digital marketing agency in Los Angeles, can create a strategy tailored to your business.