Local SEO Guide: 3 Tips for Optimising Voice Search
As of 2018, there were over a billion voice searches a month, and from this, 40% were searched with the local intent. Local searches have 80% conversion. That is enough reason to adjust your SEO budget and optimise voice search as well. Below are three tips to get you started.
(I) Focus on Localised Long-Tail Keywords
Voice searches are tied to localised keywords. Make sure to include geographical indicators for your content to rank in voice search. Besides the geo-locations, include long-tail keywords, as well as 70% of searches, are long-tail keywords. Also, claim your Google My Business and directory listings.
(II) Question-Form Keywords Count
A serious marketer will make a list of question-form keywords using tools like Keyword Planner and Keyword.io. These are paid services, but there are free options, including Google Auto Suggest and Now, with answers to questions that people are asking, chances are high, your business will be in a featured snippet. As you may be aware, featured snippets rank better when it comes to voice search.
(III) The Macro Moments
These are stages in the pre-purchase journey of buyers. Macro moments can be otherwise understood as action queries, and these include:
- I want to know: What are the best tyres for winter?
- I want to go: Cinemas near me?
- I want to do: How to clean my carpet?
- I want to buy: Best place to buy a Roomba.
And it’s not just about giving the answers to macro moments; the content should be in a natural and conversational tone. This is because voice assistants try to interact with us in the most humanly form possible.
Summary
With the proliferation of voice assistants like Cortana and Alexa, voice search is here to stay. The earlier your marketing includes voice search optimization in the local SEO guide, the better for your business.