Voice search has revolutionized the way we interact with digital devices and has significantly impacted search engine optimization (SEO) strategies.
Read about the best practices and strategies for voice search optimization in 2023 here.
With the rise of voice assistants like Siri, Alexa, Google Assistant, and Cortana, users have embraced the convenience of using voice commands for search queries. This article will explore the importance of voice search in digital marketing and provide valuable tips and tricks for conducting keyword research to optimize your content for voice search.
Voice Search in Digital Marketing
Voice technology has advanced significantly, utilizing artificial intelligence (AI) techniques like natural language processing (NLP) and deep learning to understand spoken commands. This shift from typing to voice commands has altered the landscape of SEO, requiring marketers and business owners to adapt their strategies. Voice search relies on conversational, long-tail keywords and question-based queries, reflecting how people naturally speak. For example, instead of typing “shoe shop nearby” into a search engine, a voice command might be “Hey Google, where is the nearest shoe shop?”
This fundamental difference in user behavior calls for a new approach to keyword research and optimization.
How to Perform Keyword Research for Voice Search Marketing
Conducting effective keyword research for voice search involves a four-step process:
Step 1: Take a look at the past
Start by analyzing your current and past campaigns with a focus on voice search analytics. Export a search query report from platforms like Google Ads and sort queries by length, specifically targeting those with five or more keywords. Look for queries that begin with voice activation phrases like “Hey Siri,” “Hey Alexa,” or “Hey Google.” This analysis will serve as the foundation for your voice search marketing strategy.
Step 2: Build your new list
Expand your keyword list by researching your competitors’ keywords using tools like Wordtracker’s Scout app. Filter down the list to identify keywords similar to those identified in step one. Utilize search engine autocomplete features and question modifiers like “how,” “what,” “where,” “when,” “who,” and “why” to refine your keyword selection. Tools such as Answer the Public can provide aggregated views of questions people are asking related to your chosen keyword.
When performing keyword research for voice search, keep in mind that voice queries tend to be longer and more conversational than text-based queries. Focus on long-tail keywords that are more likely to match the natural language used in voice search.
Step 3: Create a list of negative keywords
Trim your keyword list by identifying queries that are not relevant to your brand or offerings. Compile a list of negative keywords to ensure your website or advertisements do not appear for irrelevant voice search queries. For instance, if you sell luxury clothing, you may want to add keywords like “cheap,” “affordable,” and “bargain” to your negative keyword list.
Negative keywords help you filter out unwanted traffic and ensure that your content is reaching the right audience. By excluding irrelevant queries, you can focus your efforts on capturing voice search traffic that aligns with your business objectives.
Step 4: Review and repeat
Periodically review the performance of your voice search optimized keywords by gathering sufficient data. Determine whether these keywords are successfully driving voice search traffic to your website. Retain keywords that are performing well and develop similar variations. Remove underperforming keywords and repeat the process until you have a refined list of keywords that effectively capture voice search traffic.
Regularly monitoring and optimizing your keyword list is essential for maintaining a strong presence in voice search results. As user behavior and search patterns evolve, it’s important to stay updated and adjust your keyword strategy accordingly.
How to Optimize Your Website for Voice Search
In addition to keyword research, optimizing your website for voice search involves implementing the following best practices:
– Secure your site with HTTPS
Ensure your website is secure by implementing HTTPS, the standard for online communication. HTTPS not only enhances the security of your website but also has the potential to boost visibility in voice search results. Backlinko’s analysis of 10,000 Google Home results found that 70.4% of result pages were secured with HTTPS.
– Improve your website’s speed
Enhance your website’s loading speed to improve search rankings, especially for voice search. Given that voice users often access content through mobile devices or smart speakers, optimizing your site for fast results is crucial. Backlinko’s research indicates that the average voice search result page loads in 4.6 seconds, 52% faster than the average page.
– Create a FAQ page
Develop a comprehensive FAQ (Frequently Asked Questions) page that addresses common queries related to your industry or offerings. FAQ pages are not only helpful for users but also align with the conversational format favored by search engines. Backlinko found that 2.68% of voice search result pages relied on FAQ pages as a source for answers.
– Publish long-form content
Focus on producing in-depth, long-form content that addresses user questions and provides valuable insights. Voice search result pages tend to have an average word count of 2,312 words. However, it is important to prioritize quality and engagement over word count. Deliver content that is informative, engaging, and aligns with user intent.
– Use conversational content
Adopt a conversational tone in your content to match the language used by users when interacting with voice assistants. Voice search results are typically written at a 9th-grade reading level. Avoid using complex jargon and opt for a more conversational style to align with user expectations and preferences.
Read about the 7 best Voice Search Optimization Techniques to Boost Your Website’s Visibility here.
Conclusion
Voice search has emerged as a game-changer in the world of SEO, revolutionizing how users interact with digital devices. Adapting to voice search requires a strategic approach to keyword research and optimization. By following the four-step process outlined in this article and implementing best practices for website optimization, businesses can effectively capture voice search traffic and stay ahead in the evolving digital landscape.
Are you looking for expert guidance in optimizing your website for voice search? Contact Sunnyday Consulting today at support@sunnydayconsulting.com or call us at (+91) 79777 31552 and let our team of professionals help you develop a winning strategy. Enhance your online presence and capture the growing voice search market. Get in touch with us now to take your SEO efforts to the next level.
FAQs
Q: How is voice search keyword research different from traditional keyword research?
A: Voice search keyword research focuses on capturing conversational queries and long-tail keywords that mimic natural language patterns used in voice searches, whereas traditional keyword research often prioritizes shorter, more concise keywords.
Q: Can I use the same keywords for both voice search and text-based search optimization?
A: While there may be some overlap, it’s important to consider the differences in user intent and search behavior between voice search and text-based search. To effectively optimize for voice search, it’s recommended to conduct separate keyword research and tailor your strategy accordingly.
Q: How can I find voice search queries that are relevant to my business or industry?
A: You can start by reviewing your existing search analytics data and identifying queries that are 5+ keywords in length or begin with voice assistant wake words such as “Hey Siri” or “Hey Google.” Additionally, tools like Google’s autocomplete feature, “People also ask,” and Answer the Public can provide insights into common voice search queries.
Q: Should I include question-based keywords in my voice search optimization strategy?
A: Yes, incorporating question-based keywords is crucial for voice search optimization. Voice search queries often follow a question format (e.g., “What is the best restaurant near me?”). By including question modifiers and addressing common questions within your content, you can increase the likelihood of appearing in voice search results.
Q: How long should my content be to optimize for voice search?
A: While there is no set word count, voice search result pages tend to have longer content compared to traditional search results. Aim for comprehensive, in-depth content that thoroughly addresses the topic and provides valuable insights. Focus on quality, relevance, and user engagement rather than solely word count.
