Voice search has rapidly gained popularity due to its natural and efficient communication method. It is poised to become one of the preferred ways for shoppers to search for information or place orders. Nature has designed us to speak, not type.
In traditional text-based searches, users tend to employ short, keyword-driven queries. However, with voice technology, users prefer longer, more conversational phrases resembling natural speech. As a result, businesses must optimize their websites to target long-tail keywords and cater to natural language search queries to ensure visibility in search results.
As voice search technology evolves, exciting opportunities emerge to integrate voice assistants into the shopping experience. That can include providing personalized recommendations or enabling customers to place orders using their voice effortlessly.
The rise of advanced language models like ChatGPT has paved the way for innovative startups that offer Multilingual Voice Assistant technology explicitly tailored for eCommerce shoppers. Such voice assistant empowers users to find answers to their questions seamlessly on the transaction screen, eliminating the need to switch to external search engines like Google. The voice assistants enhance the user experience and simplify the search process by leveraging the information within the eCommerce application and relevant external knowledge.
Also, the power of generative AI extends to popular voice assistants from Amazon or Google, further enriching the customer experience and driving sales. By integrating these platforms, direct-to-consumer (DTC) and eCommerce merchants can allow customers to purchase through their voice-enabled devices, creating a convenient and frictionless shopping experience.
The future of Voice Search holds tremendous potential for transforming how people interact with technology and make online purchases. Businesses that embrace voice optimization and leverage generative AI capabilities will be well-positioned to delight customers and stay ahead of competitors.
Preparing for Voice Search
How can merchants optimize for voice search?
Preparing eCommerce website and product listings for voice search can significantly enhance the customer experience, making it easier for them to discover products with voice commands. To accomplish this, consider implementing the following strategies:
1. Incorporate Long-Tail Keywords and Conversational Language
Unlike traditional text-based searches, voice search queries are often longer and resemble a natural conversation. Incorporate long-tail keywords that reflect the way people speak when asking questions or seeking information. Focus on phrases that begin with words like “Who,” “What,” “Where,” “When,” “Why,” and “How.” By aligning the content with these conversational phrases, merchants can increase the chances of their eCommerce site appearing in voice search results.
2. Address Frequently Asked Questions
Create an FAQ area on the website to address customers’ common questions. Write the answers in a conversational tone, mimicking how users might ask the questions. That approach helps with voice search optimization and provides valuable information to potential customers, improving their overall experience on the site.
3. Optimize Product Descriptions and Titles
Ensure that product descriptions, titles, and category tags contain relevant details that align with user queries. Include specific attributes, such as color, size, gender, or other relevant information, to make it easier for voice search algorithms to match user intent with your products. For example, a descriptive title like “Blue sports T-shirt with V-neck for female, size 36” would be well-suited for voice search.
4. Leverage AI for Voice Recognition
With advancements in AI, voice recognition technology has improved, allowing for a better understanding of user voices, including distinguishing between male and female voices. Take advantage of this capability by tagging any “gender-specific” items accordingly. By properly labeling products, such as specifying if they are designed for men or women, retailers can enhance the accuracy of voice search results and improve the relevance of product recommendations.
By implementing these optimization strategies, an online store can effectively cater to voice search users, ensuring they can find the information and products they need quickly and easily. The adoption of voice technology for eCommerce search will grow rapidly, powered by new advances in AI. Merchants need to make sure they are ready for it.
