Voice is changing how we search. Google says that 20% of mobile searches are done by voice. And 40% of adults say they use voice search at least once a day. Forecasters expect that by 2020, 50% of all searches will be done through voice. Why are so many searches changing from text to voice? The simple answer is that it is easier and faster. And this begs the question, is voice changing how we search?
Yes. Voice technology is changing how we search. For instance, if you wonder how old President Trump is, you will likely type in the words "Trump" and "age." But if you use a voice search, you are much more likely to ask, "How old is Trump?" Or if you are looking to lose weight, you will probably type in two words: "Lose," and "weight." But if you ask verbally, you will probably say something like, "How can I lose weight?" You can hear the differences in the searches. Verbal searches are conversational, use more words, and generally use questions words like how, what, when, where, and why.
Also, voice searches tend to be specific. Let's go back to the "lose weight" example. You type "lose weight" into a search engine. Well, what are you really wanting? Do you want to know how to go about losing weight? Are you looking for an easy way to lose weight? Voice searches, because they are conversational, generally ask exact questions. "Alexa, how can I lose weight in the next two months." Or, "Ok, Google, what is the best way to lose weight."
So, Voice is changing how we search. Searches are becoming more specific, conversational, and longer. They are using question words like how and when. And this gives us an amazing opportunity to show up in search results without paying for popular keywords! How can you take advantage of this? One simple way is in your metadata. Use not only your keywords but also the phrases people would use to find your content. For example: Are you sharing vegetarian recipes for busy families? Put the traditional keywords into your metadata, and add the phrase, "Vegetarian recipes for busy families." Also, add in any question you think your content answers. Put in the whole question, filler words and all. Voice is changing how we search, and search engines are following along. If you can answer the specific question, you will show up as the answer.
