Millions of people make use of voice assistants, such as Siri and Google Assistant, to search for information on their smartphones, tablets, and smart speakers. Voice search is gaining in popularity. This trend is having a significant impact on search engine optimization (SEO), as businesses need to adapt their strategies to ensure that their websites are visible and relevant to voice search queries.
Voice search operates on the foundation of natural language processing (NLP) and machine learning algorithms.
Importance of Voice Search Optimization:
- Voice search optimized websites typically appear higher in search results. As, search engines give preference to results that offer brief, relevant, and conversational answers to user queries.
- Voice search optimization enhances user experience by providing quick, hands-free access to information, improving accessibility.
- Voice search is more local. People often use voice assistants to find information about local businesses and services.
- Voice search queries are different from text-based queries.
- People use natural language when they speak, so optimize the website for long-tail keywords and conversational language.
Optimizing VSO for Google Assistant and Siri:
- Long-tail keywords are more specific. They have a high chance of being used in voice search queries.
- Structured data helps search engines understand the content of the website. This improve chances of appearing in featured snippets, which are used by voice assistants to provide answers to questions.
- Create location-specific content and target local keywords.
- Make the website user-friendly on smartphones and tablets. Majority of voice search queries are conducted on these devices.