Successful businesses make it easy for customers to find them. For an ecommerce business, that means paying attention to how people use the internet and adapting to new search trends. One of the biggest shifts in recent years? The rise of voice search.
By applying the right voice search optimization techniques, you can prepare your content for the way people are searching today—and the way they’ll search tomorrow.
What is Voice Search Optimization?
Voice search optimization is the process of tailoring your site to perform better for queries made through voice commands. Think of it as a mix of traditional SEO best practices (like creating valuable content, improving page speed, and indexing your site) and strategies designed specifically for voice search behaviors.
When done well, voice search SEO can increase your website traffic, attract more local and mobile users, and boost the chances that smart devices recommend your business.
How Does Voice Search Work?
Most voice searches happen through digital assistants like Siri, Alexa, or Google Assistant, which rely on AI and natural language processing to interpret spoken queries. These assistants are available through smart speakers (like Amazon Echo) or apps on your phone.
Users can also rely on voice-to-text to perform searches on platforms like Google, Bing, or Yahoo. Depending on the device, results may show up as traditional search results or as spoken answers.
Why Optimize for Voice Search?
Here’s why this trend can’t be ignored:
- Nearly 60% of consumers aged 25–34 use voice search daily.
- Voice assistants are the most widely used AI feature on smartphones in the U.S.
- The voice assistant market is expected to gain 20+ million new users by 2028 and grow to nearly $32 billion by 2033.
In short: voice search is only getting bigger. By preparing your site now, you’re not just keeping up—you’re getting ahead.
ALSO READ: SEO Basics for Startup Business Owners
How to Optimize for Voice Search
1. Use a Conversational Tone
Voice queries sound different from typed searches. Instead of typing “best outdoor activities Santa Fe,” someone might say, “Hey Siri, what are some fun things to do outside in Santa Fe?”
To rank for these searches, write content in a clear, natural, and conversational style. Avoid overly technical wording, and include question-based keywords like:
- “What’s the best Vietnamese fish sauce brand?”
- “Where can I find comfortable heels for wide feet?”
2. Include More Long-Tail Keywords
Voice searches are usually longer and more detailed. For example: instead of typing “men’s loafers,” someone might say “Find burgundy men’s loafers size 10 under $50.”
That’s where long-tail keywords come in. They:
- Contain 3 or more words
- Mimic natural speech patterns
- Have lower competition but higher intent
Use keyword research tools to find long-tail phrases your customers are likely to speak aloud.
3. Target Local Searches
Local searches like “pizza near me” or “best mattress store in Raleigh” are among the most common voice queries—and they usually come with high purchase intent.
To optimize:
- Set up a Google Business Profile with accurate hours, contact info, and links.
- Add your location on your website (footer, contact page, or a dedicated location page).
- Join directories and listings like Yelp, Bing Places, and Apple Maps.
- Encourage reviews, since positive ratings improve visibility and trust.
4. Optimize Your Site for Mobile
Over half of all web traffic comes from mobile devices, and most voice searches happen on mobile. That makes mobile optimization non-negotiable.
- Use a responsive design so pages adjust seamlessly to any screen.
- Keep product pages clean and easy to navigate.
- Avoid walls of text—make key information quick to find.
5. Earn Featured Snippets
Featured snippets—the short answers Google shows at the top of results—are often the exact responses read aloud by voice assistants.
To improve your chances of landing one:
- Provide concise, direct answers to common questions.
- Use keyword-rich headings and subheadings.
- Format answers with numbered steps when relevant.
- Add schema markup so search engines better understand your content.
Voice Search Optimization FAQ
How do I optimize my business for voice search?
Ans: By using a conversational writing style, targeting long-tail keywords, optimizing for mobile, and focusing on local SEO strategies.
Is voice search the future of SEO?
Ans: Absolutely. As AI-powered assistants improve, voice search will become a core part of SEO. Businesses that adapt early will see the biggest benefits.
How do I rank in voice search?
Ans: Follow traditional SEO best practices, but put extra emphasis on local searches, FAQs, and featured snippets.