Voice search is used by 41% of adults in the U.S., according to a Google Mobile voice survey. Twenty-five to 49-year-olds are the top age group to use this technology.
With voice search, it is possible to search applications, websites, and the internet by saying the search query aloud. It has transformed the way people use and browse the internet.
Not only is voice search popular for mobile device users, but big-name companies are constantly releasing new voice assistant devices like Siri, Google’s Assistant, and Alexa.
With voice search, users can engage in several activities simultaneously without stopping what they are doing, and it helps to save time.
Reasons Voice Search Is a Worthwhile Adjustment
If your law firm’s website is not optimized for voice search, it may be time to pivot and make the necessary adjustments.
By creating a website optimized for voice search, you gain the following:
More Clients
If your competition has implemented a voice-search strategy and you are still waiting to make a move, they will likely be the law firm found when someone searches verbally. Many law firms are still learning about voice search and embracing what it offers; however, it is not something you should sit on or “wait and see what happens.”
Optimizing your site for voice search may help your firm reach the top of SERPs (search engine results pages), and you may get more clients.
It is also worth noting that all attorneys can benefit from implementing voice search elements in their content development process.
More Traffic
While the possibilities of voice search are still being discovered, one thing is clear – businesses that embrace voice search and optimize their site for it receive more traffic. Remember, getting people to your site is the first step in converting them into reaching out for more information.
Improve the Client Experience
With voice search, you reach more people and gain more traffic and clients while providing an optimized customer experience. Reaching more clients helps improve relationships, build brand loyalty, and show your customers you care about their needs.
With voice search, interactions with your online presence are more natural and seamless. They also promote loyalty and retention.
Read More: How To Create a Successful Online Presence for Your Law Firm
What to Know About Optimizing Your Law Firm Website for Voice Search
Now that you see how beneficial optimizing your law firm website for voice search can be, it is time to learn some key elements to make your website voice-search friendly.
Voice Search Uses Natural Language
People have typed as few words as possible for years when trying to find something online. For example, if they need help from a personal injury attorney after a car accident, they may search “car accident lawyer” or “accident law firm.” To ensure a site ranked well for these searches, marketers would find the best keywords and focus on those in the content and on the site.
Many people using voice search will use complete sentences. Due to voice search eliminating the need to type means no more effort is needed for additional words. For example, a digital assistant may ask, “What is the name of a law firm that can help with my car accident claim?”
You must include content with the question and answer to ensure your law firm’s site is a go-to source for a voice search response. Having FAQ (frequently asked questions) pages and sections is more important than before. To create this page, think as a potential client to create a list of questions that may arise. You may also use questions that you have been asked in the past. When a client asks you something new, add it to your FAQ page. The answers provided need to be authoritative, informative, and conversational.
Focus on Local Marketing
People are using voice search more and more because of its convenience. It can be used completely hands-free. When searching for answers while driving, walking, or doing something else, they can state what they want and have the options presented.
Utilizing local SEO tactics is familiar when it comes to law firm marketing. However, with voice search, focusing on the clients in your local area is invaluable – this is particularly true for law firms practicing regionally.
Check the content currently on your site, and verify that your address is correct on all mapping services and directories. Also, check that your practice areas are clearly defined for it to be easily read and understood by SERPs.
Ask past clients to leave reviews online and rate your services. The more reviews and higher your ratings, the higher you will appear in the local search results.
Read More: Why Is Local SEO Important for Law Firms?
Do Not Forget the Google Local Service Ads
Law firms should also utilize Google Local Service Ads (LSAs). These ads appear at the top of the results page when you enter a query like “criminal defense lawyer near me.”
LSAs are incredibly effective for law firms but can also help a law firm get found in voice searches.
Take the example from above – if someone searches “criminal defense lawyer near me,” Google Assistant will often use the top results for the LSAs in the response given. Sometimes, Google Assistant may request more qualifying information to ensure the right LSA is being presented.
Voice Search Results Lead to Action
Unlike traditional search methods, people using voice search and digital assistants are likelier to act on the information they find. They are generally more prepared than someone who types a short, nondescript query into a search engine. The person who searches for a personal injury attorney or criminal defense attorney is probably ready to call or schedule an appointment.
With this in mind, it is clear that you need to use your website to answer visitors’ questions and provide the information they need to contact you. You should also include an option to send a message, call, or schedule an appointment. The goal is to make getting in touch as simple and seamless as possible.
Voice Search Is a New Way Potential Clients Can Interact with Your Website
As smart devices and technology get more innovative, you must adapt to stay relevant and ensure potential clients have the best possible experience with your law firm.
Voice search has introduced new opportunities, and your law firm cannot wait for the competition to pave the way. Call our team or schedule a meeting with The Legal Marketing Company today to learn how we can optimize your site for voice search.