Note this: Alexa, Siri, and Google Assistant are quickly becoming our go-to companions!

By the end of 2024, a mind-boggling 8.4 billion voice assistants will be in use—surpassing the world's population.

This explosive growth means one thing: you must ensure your content is voice-search-friendly!

Want to stay ahead of the curve? Here are four simple tips to get you started. But first, let’s see how it works.

How does voice search work?

Voice search operates quite simply:

• Users activate the voice search device with the key phrase (“Ok Google”, “ Alexa”)
• Users ask their question
• The device processes the query and provides an answer

Typically, you'll hear the answer aloud. However, in some cases, like with Siri, instead of reading the answer out loud, it might display results and guide you to relevant information found on the web that matches your search query.

VSO vs. Traditional SEO

More or less we all know how it works, but how does it differ from traditional optimization? Well, Voice Search Optimization (VSO) and traditional SEO have different focuses. SEO aims to rank on the first page of search results, while VSO targets the top three positions.

Still confused? Let’s make it simple:

• SEO Focus: Traditional SEO focuses on appearing on the first page of search results.
• VSO Focus: VSO aims to rank in the top three results, as voice assistants often pull answers from these positions.
• Interdependency: Successful VSO relies on strong SEO practices. Good SEO ensures high-quality, relevant, and well-optimized content, which is crucial for voice search success.

By doing traditional SEO, you enhance your chances of ranking well in voice search results. This means your content needs to be clear, concise, and directly answer users' questions, making it more likely to be chosen by voice assistants.

4 Voice Search Optimization Tips

But how do you optimize for voice search? Well, here are four tips you must read.

1. Optimize for conversational queries

When you search online, you might type "how to make a cheesecake." For voice search, make it more conversational, like "How do I make a cheesecake?" People speak differently than they write, so adjust your strategy accordingly.

Tips:

• Use Long-Tail Keywords: Include natural-sounding phrases and questions.
• Brainstorm Questions: Think of various questions your audience might ask.
• Check 'People Also Ask': Use Google's related queries for inspiration.
• Utilize Tools: Try Semrush's Keyword Magic Tool with the “Questions” filter to find relevant question keywords.

How Important Are Keywords for SEO? Well, today is everything about keywords so make sure to know them well and integrate them effectively into your content strategy.

2. Optimize your local presence

Did you know 46% of users perform voice searches to find local businesses daily? To capture this audience, you need to enhance your local presence. Start by optimizing your Google Business Profile:

• Complete Your Info: Verify your name, address, and phone number.
• Keep Hours Updated: Ensure your hours of operation are accurate.
• Add Photos: Visuals attract more attention.
• Write a Short Description: Briefly describe what your business offers.

Don't forget to fill out your profile so that people can find you more easily using voice search. If you want to see how it's done, just search for example "yoga studio near me" and you'll find all the listings. 👇

3. Focus on giving answers directly

We all strive to be number one on Google, but did you know "Position Zero" is even better? Featured snippets sit at the very top of search results, offering quick answers that users love. When you catch Position Zero, your visibility skyrockets. How can you get there? Traditional SEO is your ally.

Pro Tip: Create a FAQ page. By answering common questions directly, you can rank for voice queries and provide the precise answers people are looking for about your business or industry.

Still don’t know what we are talking about? Well, type in “How do you make popcorn in an air fryer” and the result will pop on top. Just like this! 👇

It clearly says what you need to do. These snippets are incredibly helpful, especially for mobile and voice search users. Want to learn how to create featured snippets? Follow these direct instructions from Google!

4. Follow SEO Best Practices

If you’re not optimizing for SEO, you probably won't show up in voice searches since these devices pull answers from the top results. To boost your ranking, follow these SEO tips:

• Use Long-Tail Keywords: Think about how people talk and use more specific, natural phrases. Tools like Semrush, Keyword Planner, and SERP Features (People Also Ask) can help you find these keywords.
• Optimize for Mobile: Ensure your site is mobile-friendly and responsive so it looks great on any device.
• Speed Up Your Site: Fast-loading pages enhance user experience and search rankings. Start with tools like Page Speed Insights.

By following these steps, you'll improve your chances of ranking higher in both traditional and voice search results. So next time you are about to write a landing page make sure to keep it optimized. ✅

Voice Search Statistics to Keep You Informed

At end, here are some eye-opening statistics that you might want to know about:

• 4.2 billion voice assistants are in use, expected to reach 8.4 billion by the end of the year.
• About 58% of consumers use voice search to find local businesses.
• 27% of people use voice search on their mobile devices.
• Google Assistant supports over 30,000 smart home devices.
• 5.1% of users prefer Apple’s Siri for voice searches.

For more insights, check out the Voice Search Statistics for 2024. Who wants to type anything anyway? Speaking is way more fun! Now, go ahead and ask your voice assistant anything!