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What comes to mind when you think of Alexa, Google Home, or any other voice-activated assistant? Convenience right? You ask and they respond. But behind that seamless interaction lies fierce competition. Only a few pieces of content get selected when these devices answer user queries. So how can you ensure your content stands out as the one? It’s no longer solely about SEO; it’s now about VSO Voice Search Optimization.

Let’s explore how you can make your content shout “choose me!” in a world dominated by voice assistants.

1. Grasping the Voice Search Revolution

Voice search isn’t just a passing trend; it’s a powerful force. By 2024 more than 8 billion digital voice assistants will be in operation, globally. People enjoy conversing with their devices; it’s quicker, simpler, and feels like chatting with a friend. However, unlike typed searches, voice searches tend to be more conversational and seek straightforward answers.

Picture a person in their kitchen covered in flour, turning to Alexa for help with making pancakes without eggs. They’re looking for a straightforward response, not a lengthy explanation about the origins of pancakes without eggs. Time is of the essence and users are eager to get to the point. If your message doesn’t hit the spot right away, it gets overlooked.

2. The Magic of Conversational Keywords

People don’t express themselves in the same way when they’re typing. Instead of saying the best pizza delivery nearby, you would ask something like: “Hey Google, where can I find the pizza place to get pizza around here?” That’s why optimizing for search involves using conversational and question-based keywords. To nail this down, think about how your audience speaks. Utilize tools such as AnswerThePublic or even Google’s autocomplete feature to discover what questions people are actually asking. You want to incorporate phrases that resemble a conversation rather than a search term.

For instance, instead of saying affordable home workout equipment, you could say: “What’s the best budget-friendly workout gear for home?” Similarly, instead of asking for a lasagna recipe, you might say “How do I make the lasagna”? The key is to envision the voice of your audience. Imagine them posing questions in their own way. That’s where your content should align with them.

3. Keep It Simple, Keep It Brief

Voice assistants aren’t here to read long essays, they provide answers. Straightforward, clear and concise. Research indicates that the average voice search response consists of approximately 29 words. Yes, you heard it correctly, just 29 words. You only have seconds or even milliseconds to leave a lasting impression. 

To start crafting paragraphs, focus on straightforwardly addressing questions within the initial lines. Don’t hesitate to incorporate points. They’re not reserved for presentations they can be your secret weapon, in voice search. 

Take IKEA as an example. This brand has mastered the delivery of quick and efficient responses, in its customer service content. When you inquire with Google Home about assembling a challenging piece of furniture, you often receive a step-by-step guide that feels like having a helpful friend assisting you. That’s the impact of brevity.

4. Featured Snippets Are Your Best Friends

If you’ve ever posed a question to Google, you’ve encountered the featured snippet, those handy answer boxes that pop up at the top of the search results. They’re a treasure trove for optimizing voice searches, since devices rely on them frequently. To secure a snippet position, you should organize your content with headers and subheadings. Incorporate formats, tables and lists. It’s all about providing Google with precisely what it needs to elevate you to that coveted spot zero. 

A great example of this is HubSpot. The company has honed the skill of creating content that consistently lands in snippets. For instance, if you search “How do I create a marketing plan?” Google might showcase the HubSpots checklist, delivering it seamlessly through voice assistants. What’s the trick? They prioritize structure and clarity over unnecessary fluff. 

Now, let’s delve into some real-world success stories, that highlight the impact of voice search optimization. You know, those moments that make you think, “If they can achieve it, so can I.”

1. Domino’s Pizza: The King of Voice Orders

Dominos jumped on the search trend well before smart speakers became a common household item. They rolled out ordering via Alexa and Google Home, streamlining the process for pizza enthusiasts who want to satisfy their cravings with minimal effort. By simplifying menu descriptions and adopting a tone in their communication, Domino’s made sure that when you say, “Alexa, order my usual from Domino’s,” everything goes smoothly and seamlessly. The outcome? A significant increase in voice orders, particularly during nights and weekends. It’s not about being available; it’s about being the most convenient option.

2. Nestlé’s Smart Recipes

Nestlé recognized the potential of search to position itself as a handy sous chef for home cooks. Through their “GoodNes” Alexa feature, they deliver cooking instructions and helpful tips directly into the kitchen. Their recipes are crafted to be concise, engaging and practical, making them ideal for hands-free assistance. It goes beyond providing a recipe; it’s about enhancing the cooking journey. Picture having a friendly assistant by your side, guiding you through the process without the need to check a screen.

3. Johnnie Walker’s Whiskey Experience

Johnnie Walker has elevated voice optimization through their innovative “Johnnie Walker Tasting Experience” on Alexa. With this feature, users can inquire about things like “What’s the whiskey for newcomers?” or “What’s the proper way to taste whiskey?” The brand goes beyond sharing facts; it weaves a story that resonates with the audience on a level. By incorporating storytelling elements, they transform the process of discovering whiskey into a personal adventure instead of a formal lesson.

Focus on Local SEO

Voice searches often involve queries. Just think about it, how frequently have you asked your device things like: “Where can I find a coffee shop?” or “What’s the best Italian restaurant in the area?” Your content should be ready for these situations. Make sure your business details are current across all platforms such as Google My Business, Yelp and even your website. Incorporate localized keywords and use natural-sounding phrases like near me or close by. 

If you’re targeting a location, don’t hesitate to mention it, in different contexts throughout your writing. Take a cue from Starbucks on this one. When you tell Google Home to find the nearest Starbucks, it quickly shows you the closest location thanks to their meticulous local SEO efforts. Starbucks keeps their listings updated, and their descriptions are written in a friendly and conversational tone. 

Oh, and don’t forget about making your site mobile friendly! This is still crucial. Voice search and usage go hand in hand. People often use commands on their phones while driving, cooking, or even walking down the street. If your website isn’t optimized for devices, you’re already at a disadvantage.

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Key elements include loading times, a design and user-friendly navigation. If users click on a voice search result only to be met with delays or difficulties in reading, they’re likely to leave the site. And when they do so, Google takes note. 

A great example of this is Airbnbs website. It’s not only visually appealing but also optimized for mobile and voice searches. When you ask Google to “Find a beach house in Portugal” and click on the link, the site quickly loads, guides you through the process and provides assistance with the booking process. 

Embracing the Future of Voice Search Is Essential

It’s not just a trend; it represents a shift in how people engage with content. To succeed, you must connect with your audience by speaking naturally, searching effortlessly and delivering immediate results. It’s crucial to optimize not only for algorithms but also for the users behind them. 

Keep in mind that this goes beyond checking off SEO requirements. It’s about creating content that feels like a conversation, anticipating questions before they are fully asked. When done, it can amplify your voice through every smart speaker worldwide.

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