Beyond Search Engines: Optimizing For Voice Search And The Rise Of Virtual Assistants

Several years ago, talking to a robot assistant every day seemed like mere fiction. These days, if you want to find the nearest dog park, day spa, or taco stand, you ask Alexa or Siri for recommendations.

From smart speakers to smartphones and smart TVs, doing a web search through VR is now normal. It is usually more convenient, easier, and faster than typing in queries.

But here is the catch – voice search is different to text search. When you talk about your device, you phrase your questions differently. This fact means organic SEO services company need to adapt so as to capture this evolving group of searchers.

So, What Is a Voice Search?

Voice search refers to a strategy used to improve the visibility of a brand or website in a voice-enabled search query. Voice search often works by enabling users to ask queries using natural language and get answers from automated systems like Google Assistant, Alexa, or Siri.

This technology has been there for years, but it started gaining popularity just recently because of the inception of voice assistants, such as Google Home and Amazon Echo.

For websites and businesses to leverage this kind of searching, they will need strategies, which optimize their content for a voice search to be found easily by those assistants when queries are entered.

Why Use Voice Search?

One major reason is convenience. Everyone is a sucker for convenience, and through voice search, you won’t lift a finger to get what you are searching for.

Apart from convenience, there are other vital variables, which may account for the growing popularity of this technology. These variables include the following:

  • Speed
  • Accessibility
  • Accuracy
  • Communication and translation
  • Safety

Voice Search Optimization (VSO) Techniques

Optimizing your site for search continues evolving. Search optimization’s future is shifting towards the voice because there has been a great emphasis on mobile optimization over PC or desktop in the past few years.

Just like mobile search habits vary from desktop search and need a strategy, voice has a set of nuances requiring unique on-site SEO services and methods for optimization. Some of these strategies include the following:

1.      Conduct Keyword Research

When doing keyword research for a voice search, it will be best to concentrate on conversational phrases and long-tail keywords. Think of the questions your audience can ask and incorporate them into your content. The best technical SEO services and tools, like Semrush and Answer the Public, will help discover important voice search queries.

2.      Prioritize Local SEO

Most individuals use voice searches to look for businesses near them. If you put more attention on SEO linkbuilding, you are more likely to rank higher for voice searches. And if possible, use location-based search terms or keywords, which include phrases like ‘near me.’ Also, submit your website to a local directory and motivate your clients to review your business online.

The Takeaway!

A voice search has changed how clients interact with technological advancement and access information. With the growing popularity of VAs, such as Google Assistant, Siri, and Alexa, it is best to know the power of voice searches and how you can use it to reach your target audience.