Voice search is growing rapidly which has marketers scrambling to make sure their content can be served up for voice searches. It is expected that by 2020, 50% of all searches will be conducted by voice. Creating optimized content which can rank well in voice search results is now a goal of many SEOs and content marketers.
The following infographic looks at 5 ways to optimize content for voice search. I have also included the textual content (with grammar corrections) of the infographic below.
[Click image for full size version]
Via: Branex
Why Optimize for Voice Search?
- 50% of all searches will be voice-based by 2020
- 65% of 25-49 year olds speak to voice enabled devices at least once a day
- 76% of smart speaker users conduct local searches once a week
- 53% of smart speaker users per form voice searches daily
- 30% of all searches will be done without a screen by 2020
- 72% of smart speaker users use devices as part of their daily routines
- 19% of consumers have made a voice purchase through Amazon Echo or another digital home assistant
- 33% plan to do so by next year
How To Optimize Your Site for Voice Search
1. FAQ Based Content
Users ask questions when performing a voice search. Look for long-tail question keywords and create content around it to rank higher on voice search.
Question phrases are more likely to be voice search:
2. Use Structure Data Markup
Organize your web site to provide more context about its contents.
Use microdata to ensure that search engines classify your contact information, operational hours, ratings, address, etc.
3. Go Local
“Near me” searches have grown More than 130% year over year.
Users are always searching for businesses around them and you can take advantage of this. Localize your content and optimize your web site for local SEO.
50% of local mobile searches by a consumer lead to a store visit within one day!
Using the right local keyword can include:
- Phrases descriptive of the neighborhood around your location
- Landmarks and famous businesses in the vicinity of your business
- Local institutions pertinent to your store
- “Near me” phrases in anchor text, internal links, and title and meta description tags
4. Mobile Friendliness
Ensure your web site is mobile friendly to tap for mobile users.
Use bullets to render content legible on small screens. Optimize images and scripts, incorporate white space, choose simple words, be concise, use short sentences, employ small paragraphs, and engaging sub-headings.
5. Don’t Go Overboard With Optimization
Avoid over-optimizing your web site as it might backfire. Optimize effectively and you will get the desired results.
Author note: I’m not really sure what the creator of this infographic meant by tip # 5 (Don’t Go Overboard With Optimization). Possibly they are referring to the trial and error process that is often involved with SEO work?
