Voice search is no longer a futuristic idea — it’s a vital part of how people find information online today. With the rise of smart assistants like Amazon Alexa, Google Assistant, and Apple’s Siri, more users than ever are speaking their queries instead of typing them. In fact, voice searches now account for a rapidly growing share of total searches worldwide.
This shift means businesses need to rethink their SEO strategies to target the conversational, question-based queries typical of voice search. If you want to strengthen your local presence, our local SEO services can help you rank better for ‘near me’ and location-based voice searches.
Why Voice Search Matters for SEO
Voice search queries differ significantly from typed queries:
- They tend to be longer and phrased naturally, mimicking everyday speech.
- Users often ask complete questions instead of keywords.
- Most voice search results come from featured snippets or “position zero” on Google.
- Mobile phones and smart speakers, which rely heavily on voice input, are driving local and immediate search intent.
Ignoring voice search means missing out on traffic, especially from mobile and local users. Optimising for voice search boosts your chances of being the quick, accurate answer users hear from their devices.
How to Optimise for Voice Search in 2025
1. Use Natural, Conversational Keywords
People talk differently than they type. Instead of short phrases like ‘best plumber Liverpool, voice searches are more like:
“Where can I find the best plumber near me in Liverpool?”
To capture this traffic:
- Research long-tail keywords that reflect how customers ask questions aloud.
- Incorporate question words like who, what, where, when, why, and how.
2. Create FAQ and Q&A Content
Build pages or sections dedicated to answering common customer questions in simple, clear language. This helps target the exact phrases users ask out loud.
Pro tip: Use FAQPage schema markup on these sections so Google can display your answers directly in rich results, increasing your chances of voice search inclusion.
3. Target Featured Snippets
Featured snippets provide concise answers at the top of Google search results and are often read aloud by voice assistants.
To win snippets:
- Format your content with clear questions followed by brief, informative answers.
- Use bullet points, numbered lists, and tables where appropriate.
- Place answers near the top of your content.
4. Strengthen Local SEO
Many voice searches have local intent, such as “near me” or specific location-based queries.
Make sure to:
- Keep your Google Business Profile (GBP) accurate and up-to-date.
- Include local keywords in your website content and metadata.
- Encourage customers to leave positive reviews, boosting your local credibility.
5. Improve Site Speed and Mobile Experience
Voice search users want fast, seamless answers. Google prioritises sites that load quickly and perform well on mobile devices.
Focus on:
- Optimising Core Web Vitals (loading speed, interactivity, visual stability).
- Using responsive design for mobile-friendliness.
- Minimising unnecessary scripts and optimising images.
6. Use Structured Data Markup
Structured data helps search engines understand your content better, improving your chances of rich results that voice assistants pull from.
- Besides FAQ schema, consider adding:
- HowTo schema for step-by-step guides.
- QAPage schema for question and answer content.
- LocalBusiness schema to highlight your business details.
Future Voice Search Trends to Watch
Conversational AI Growth: AI will better understand context and intent, making voice queries even more natural.
Personalisation: Voice assistants will increasingly tailor answers based on user history and preferences.
Integration with IoT: Voice search will extend into smart home devices, cars, and wearables, broadening search contexts.
Conclusion
Voice search is reshaping the SEO landscape in 2025. Adapting your website to this trend means creating conversational content, enhancing local SEO, and ensuring your site delivers fast, user-friendly experiences. Businesses that embrace voice search optimisation will connect with audiences more naturally and gain a competitive edge.
Need help optimising your website for voice search and boosting your local visibility? Contact Codeguys today to get started!
