Voice search is not a new phenomenon, but it is gaining more traction and influence in the SEO world. According to a report by Juniper Research, voice-based ad revenue could reach $19 billion by 2022. Moreover, voice search is expected to account for 50% of all searches by 2020, according to ComScore.

Voice search is different from traditional text-based search in many ways. For one thing, voice queries tend to be longer, more conversational, and more specific than text queries. For another, voice search users are often looking for quick and relevant answers, rather than browsing through multiple results.

So how can you optimize your content for voice search and provide value to your audience? Here are some tips to help you get started:

Use natural language and long-tail keywords

Voice search users tend to use natural language and long-tail keywords when they ask questions or make requests. For example, instead of typing “best pizza near me”, they might say “Where can I get the best pizza in town?” or “What’s the closest pizza place that delivers?”

To rank well for voice search, you need to use natural language and long-tail keywords in your content as well. This means writing in a conversational tone, using words and phrases that your audience would use, and answering common questions that they might have.

You can use tools like AnswerThePublic or SEMrush to find out what questions and keywords your audience is using in voice search. Then, you can create content that addresses those queries and provides useful information.

Structure your content with headings and lists

Voice search users are often looking for quick and easy answers, rather than reading long paragraphs of text. Therefore, you need to structure your content with headings and lists that make it easy to scan and understand.

Headings help you organize your content into sections and sub-sections that match the intent and context of the voice query. For example, if someone asks “How do I make a chocolate cake?”, you can use headings like “Ingredients”, “Steps”, and “Tips” to break down your content.

Lists help you present your content in a concise and clear way that voice assistants can read out loud. For example, if someone asks “What are the benefits of meditation?”, you can use a numbered or bulleted list to list the benefits.

You can also use schema markup to add structured data to your content and help voice assistants understand what it is about. Schema markup is a code that you add to your HTML to provide additional information about your content, such as the title, author, date, rating, etc. Schema markup can also help you create rich snippets that appear in the search results and attract more clicks.

Optimize for local and mobile searches

Voice search is often used on mobile devices and for local queries. For example, someone might use voice search to find a nearby restaurant, a gas station, or a movie theater. Therefore, you need to optimize your content for local and mobile searches if you want to rank well for voice search.

To optimize for local searches, you need to claim and update your Google My Business listing with accurate and relevant information about your business, such as the name, address, phone number, hours, reviews, etc. You also need to use local keywords and phrases in your content and meta tags, such as the city, state, zip code, landmarks, etc.

To optimize for mobile searches, you need to make sure that your website is responsive and fast-loading on different devices and screen sizes. You also need to use short and catchy headlines, subheadings, images, videos, and other visual elements that make your content engaging and easy to consume on mobile devices.

Provide value and quality

Finally, the most important thing to remember when optimizing your content for voice search is to provide value and quality to your audience. Voice search users are looking for answers that are relevant, accurate, trustworthy, and helpful. Therefore, you need to create content that meets their needs and expectations.

To provide value and quality, you need to do thorough research on your topic and use credible sources to back up your claims. You also need to write in a clear and concise way that avoids jargon, fluff, and errors. You also need to update your content regularly and keep it fresh and current.

Voice search is not a fad or a trend; it is here to stay and grow. By optimizing your content for voice search, you can reach more potential customers and increase your visibility and authority in your niche. Follow these tips and start creating voice-friendly content today!