Voice Assistants and SEO
How Voice Search is Changing SEO
Siri, Cortana, Alexa, Google Assistant are a few examples of the changes that have arrived and will continue to change how we use SEO.
With the development of voice assistants on various devices, mainly mobile, marketers are concerned with the changes it will impose on SEO. As humans, it’s only natural we fear change. But is this a negative change? It’s actually a great change that will benefit us – if we proceed in the right direction.
When users opt for voice searches over typed searches, their language is more fluid and natural. Nevertheless, this has and will continue changing the composition of SEO keywords.
Who is using voice search? Why? How could you optimize your SEO for voice assistant users? Keep reading to answer all these pressing questions and receive bonus tips on how to strengthen your SEO!
Who Is Using Voice Search?
It may be no surprise that the early adopters compose the highest volume of users for voice search. These early adopters are generally between the ages of 18 to 43. But, it may be quite a shock to hear approximately half of mobile users aged 44+ are also using voice search! Why is voice search gaining popularity so quickly? Well, voice search is easy to use for anyone at any age; it’s quicker and more accurate.
Of course, younger generations come to mind immediately – they are fascinated with anything new. Also, in this fast-paced world, voice searching is exactly what early adopters want. But consider the older generations, explore why they may be more inclined to use voice search. We’ve all heard that aunt, uncle or even parent that thinks texting is too complicated and prefer the quick ease of calling someone. They are the other potential market that will most likely also prefer voice searching. Yes, we’re looking at you, Aunt Pearl!
As always, it’s important to define who is your target market, how tech-friendly they are (or not tech-friendly at all).
How Could You Optimize Your SEO?
As mentioned earlier, the main difference between typed and voice search is the naturality of the language used. Typed searches contain main keywords and are usually around 1 to 3 words. Alternatively, voice search is more conversational, therefore, voice searches can contain 6 to 10+ words – otherwise known as longtail keywords.
An example. A typed search could be “Digital Marketing Agency” and a voice search could be “Which are the Best Digital Marketing Agencies in Montreal?”
Although optimizing your SEO for voice search is important, if not necessary, don’t remove your shorttail keywords. Voice search is gaining popularity, but typed searches are still the most prevalent. As always, a mix of short and longtail keywords are optimal for various types of search methods. Make sure longtail keywords are composed as naturally as possible.
Content Marketing
Content marketing is an excellent way to add keywords directly to your website. For more information on content marketing, take a look at this in-depth article!
Additional ways to add conversational keywords in your website content is by adding FAQ pages. Not only will you be addressing common questions from leads and customers, but the natural language will strengthen your SEO and online presence.
Google My Business, Anyone?
If you don’t have a Google My Business listing, let this be a friendly reminder.
The majority of voice search results are based on location. If you don’t have your business listed, you may be missing out on a market you didn’t know you had. Additionally, Google My Business filters businesses by category, making it easier for users to find you based on their needs.
Since voice searches are most often on mobile devices, it’s crucial for your website to be mobile friendly. Our website goal is to offer the best experience. If your website isn’t mobile friendly, it’ll be difficult for users to navigate, which will inevitably lead to higher bounce rates.
Remember to use natural and fluid language in your content and longtail SEO keywords. Don’t forget to use these tips listed to help search engines deliver your information accurately to the right people!
Links: Voice Search Changing Digital Marketing, Optimize for Voice Search, Voice Search Strategies, Content Marketing, Target Markets