Voice search optimization: here's how to get found better in voice searches
Voice-activated search is on the rise. Google Assistant, Siri and Alexa are no longer gadgets, but everyday tools. Especially with the growth of smart speakers and mobile Internet use, voice search is becoming an important channel in digital marketing. In this article, you'll learn how to optimize your site for this fast-growing method of search.
"20% of mobile searches on Google are voice-driven."
What exactly is voice search?
Voice search allows users to speak searches instead of typing them in. Think "Where is the nearest bike shop?" or "What are ClickForest s opening hours in Bonheiden?" These searches are often local, conversational and mobile.
Why is voice search important for your business?
Increase in use: more and more people are using voice, especially on the go or at home via smart devices. According to Google, 27% of global Internet users are already active with voice search on mobile.
Conversion-oriented: voice searches are often action-oriented. Those who say "open now" or "best nearby" are often ready to convert.
New SEO approach needed: classic keyword stuffing doesn't work here. You need to think in questions, answers and natural language.
➡️ Also read: SEO becomes GEO: AI changes how we are found online
"Voice is the next big disruption in computing."
How do you optimize for voice search?
1. Think in questions and answers
People talk differently than they type. So use FAQ-like content with natural sentences, such as:
How does voice search work?
Where can I find a good marketing partner in Flanders?
Use the questions as H2 headings and provide clear, short answers in the first paragraph below them.
2. Optimize for local SEO
Voice searches are often locally oriented. Think "nearby" or "in [city]." Provide:
An optimized Google Business profile
Local search terms in your content (e.g., "online marketing Bonheiden")
Structured data with your location information (address, hours of operation, etc.)
"People are increasingly using voice search for quick answers and local info, such as opening hours or directions."
3. Use structured data
Structured data helps search engines understand your content. For example, mark up your FAQs with schema.org FAQPage markup and your business data with LocalBusiness markup.
4. Fast, mobile-friendly site
Voice search often happens on smartphones. Fast load times, mobile-first design and clear CTAs are crucial. Use tools like Google PageSpeed Insights to measure your performance.
➡️ Find more tips in our guide: How to optimize your e-commerce site for mobile devices.
5. Write naturally and conversationally
Avoid formal or overly technical language. Write like people talk. That means concrete:
Short sentences
Commonly used terms
Informal tone of voice where appropriate
"Voice search and speech interfaces are growing at lightning speed, thanks to improvements in natural language processing."
Bonus: tools and techniques
Use these tools to strengthen your voice search strategy:
AnswerThePublic: find frequently asked questions around your topic
Google Search Console: analyze long-tail searches
Screaming Frog: check your structured data
SEMRush or Ubersuggest: for keyword research around demand-driven search terms
AlsoAsked.com: displays queries related to one central search query
Voice search is no longer a thing of the future
Voice search is not hype, but an ongoing evolution in how people search for information. By smartly adapting your content and website, you can capitalize on this and gain a competitive advantage. Start today with small tweaks such as FAQ sections and local optimization - building a forward-looking SEO strategy.
Frequently asked questions about voice search optimization
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Voice search optimization is the process of adapting your website to be better found through voice-activated searches, such as through Google Assistant or Siri. It focuses on natural language, query-driven content and local findability.
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With the rise of smartphones and smart speakers such as Alexa and Google Home, more and more people are using their voice to look up info. According to Google, 20% of all mobile searches are already voice searches.
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Voice searches are longer, more natural and often phrased as questions. So you optimize not only on keywords, but also on phrases such as "What is the best pizzeria in Antwerp?"
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Local businesses such as restaurants, stores, doctors, garages and marketing agencies benefit the most because voice queries are often local in nature.
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Use natural language, answer questions in your content, optimize for local search terms and add structured data (such as LocalBusiness and FAQ markup).
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Voice assistants often seek short, direct answers. By answering frequently asked questions on your site, you increase your chances of appearing as a featured snippet or spoken answer.
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Tools such as AnswerThePublic, AlsoAsked, Ubersuggest and Google Search Console help discover demand-driven searches.
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Yes. Structured data (such as FAQPage and LocalBusiness schema) helps search engines better understand what information you offer, which is crucial in voice search.
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Absolutely. Most voice queries happen on mobile. A fast, mobile-friendly website with clear navigation is essential.
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Although Google does not show separate voice statistics, you can analyze long-tail queries and conversational search terms in Search Console to discover trends.
🤖 Need help with AI, online marketing or e-commerce?
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Sources:
https://www.thinkwithgoogle.com/consumer-insights/voice-assistance-marketing-strategy/
https://venturebeat.com/ai/how-amazons-voice-evangelist-sees-alexa-and-the-future-of-voice/
https://blog.google/products/search/search-gets-smarter-and-more-personal/
https://www.kleinerperkins.com/perspectives/internet-trends-report-2018/
