The way people search for businesses online is changing fast. Instead of typing out their queries, people are now using voice search through their smartphones, smart speakers and other Internet or Things (IoT) devices. This shift in search is having a big impact on local businesses making it more important than ever to optimise your website for voice-driven searches. So how exactly is voice search changing local SEO for SMEs? And how can you stay on top? Here’s what you need to know to stay ahead.
Why does voice search matters for local businesses and SMEs?
Think about how you search for things on your phone. If you’re looking for a nearby café, you might type “best café near me.” But if you use voice search, you’re more likely to ask, “Where’s the best café nearby?” This difference might seem small, but it changes how search engines deliver results.
Voice searches tend to be more conversational and specific. Many of them are local – people asking for recommendations, directions, or opening hours. In fact, studies show that nearly 50% of voice searches are for local businesses. With the rise of smart assistants like Alexa, Google Assistant, and Siri, this trend is only growing.
How to optimise for voice search and local SEO
If you want your business to be found easily, you’ll need to tweak your SEO strategy to include voice searches. Here are a few key strategies:
1. Use natural, conversational language
People speak differently than they type. When optimising your website, think about how people ask questions out loud. Instead of just focusing on short keywords like “coffee shop Wimbledon,” include longer, more natural phrases like “Where’s the best coffee shop in Wimbledon?”
2. Optimise for “near me” searches
A huge number of voice searches include “near me.” Make sure your business details are up to date on Google My Business, Apple Maps, and other online directories. Include location-specific keywords in your content, like your city or neighbourhood name.
3. Focus on FAQ-style content
Since many voice searches are questions, having a dedicated FAQ section on your website can help. Think about common questions customers ask about your business and answer them clearly.
4. Improve your website speed and mobile friendliness
Most voice searches happen on mobile devices. If your website is slow or difficult to navigate on a phone, you’ll lose potential customers. Make sure your site loads quickly and is easy to use on any device. If you’re unsure, check out this guide on how to speed up your website.
5. Get customer reviews and testimonials
Smart assistants often pull information from review sites. Encourage happy customers to leave reviews on Google and Yelp. The more positive reviews you have, the more likely your business will appear in voice search results.
We hope you enjoyed learning a little bit about voice search and how it is changing local SEO for SMEs. We know that voice search and smart devices aren’t just trends – they’re going to be here for the long haul. So make sure your SME isn’t left behind. If you have any questions about voice search or need help with another online project, get in touch with us! We’d love to see if we can help. Until next time – happy marketing!