Web Design in the Era of Voice Search

Designing Websites For Voice Search!

Voice search is rapidly shaping the future of online queries. With the rise of smart devices like Amazon Echo, Google Home, and Apple HomePod, an increasing number of users are relying on voice commands. Estimates suggest that by 2025, half of all searches will be voice-based. Hence, if you’re a budding web designer, it’s crucial to understand the nuances of designing for voice search.

The Voice Search Revolution

Thanks to the widespread use of AI-powered assistants like Siri and Alexa, voice search has become more popular. Their accuracy and the convenience of voice commands have made them the preferred choice for many. Traditional search methods centred around typed-out queries, but voice searches are often longer, framed as questions or phrases. If websites aren’t tailored for voice search, they risk losing significant traffic and potential customers.

Designing for Voice: Key Strategies

• Long-Tail Keywords & Conversational Phrases: Voice searches aren’t usually limited to just one or two words. People tend to use full sentences or questions. For instance, instead of typing “best pizza London”, someone might ask, “Where can I find the best pizza in London?”. It’s essential to focus on these long-tail keywords and phrases. Tools such as Answer the Public or Google Trends can help identify these common conversational phrases, which can then be integrated into your website’s content and metadata.
• Structured Data & Schema Markup: These technical terms might sound intimidating, but they’re pivotal for voice search. They help search engines understand your content’s context. With appropriate schema markup, you can enhance the chances of your website featuring in rich snippets, which voice assistants often use for answering queries. Google’s Structured Data Markup Helper is a useful starting point.
• Local Search Optimisation: Siri, Alexa, and other voice assistants are often used to seek local information – think of queries like, “What’s the closest coffee shop?”. To ensure your site pops up in such searches, make sure your business’s name, address, and phone number are consistent across your site. Claiming and optimising your Google My Business listing is also a solid strategy.
• Enhanced Site Performance: Waiting isn’t something web users are fond of, and voice searchers are no exception. A slow site can deter potential visitors. To ensure your site is up to speed, use the following methods:
  • Image Optimisation: Use formats like WebP, which retain quality but reduce file size.
  • Minimising Code: Tools exist to minify your CSS, JavaScript, and HTML, reducing load times.
  • Enable Caching: This stores frequently accessed data, speeding up subsequent visits.
  • Utilise a CDN: Content Delivery Networks serve site data from servers closest to the user, ensuring rapid loading.
  • Declutter: Remove unnecessary plugins or scripts, which can bloat your site and slow it down.
• Quality Over Quantity: Voice searchers often seek specific answers. It’s not about how much you say, but how relevant and precise your information is. Long-form content that addresses a user’s query comprehensively is invaluable. An FAQ page, answering common questions related to your industry, is a smart addition.
• Aiming for Featured Snippets: These are the concise answers you see atop Google search results. Voice assistants frequently source their responses from these snippets. The key to featuring here is clear and concise content that directly answers search queries.

Conclusion

The ascent of voice search is undeniable, and it’s imperative for new-age web designers to remain updated and adapt. By embracing the strategies discussed, you’ll not only make your content voice-search friendly but also ensure a comprehensive user experience. Remember, as technology advances, so should your design strategies. Staying informed is the best way to stay ahead.