The way customers find local businesses is changing rapidly. Instead of typing searches into their phones or computers, millions of people now simply ask their voice assistants: "Hey Alexa, find a plumber near me" or "Hey Siri, what restaurants are open right now?"
If your business is not optimized for voice search, you are missing out on a growing segment of customers who prefer the speed and convenience of voice-activated search. This article explains what voice search optimization is, why it matters for your business, and how Apex Media Solutions helps you get discovered on major voice platforms.
Voice search allows users to speak their queries aloud instead of typing them. Using voice assistants built into smartphones, smart speakers, and other devices, customers can quickly find information, get directions, make phone calls, and discover local businesses—all hands-free.
The most popular voice assistants include:
| Voice Assistant | Devices |
|---|---|
| Amazon Alexa | Echo speakers, Fire TV, Echo Show, third-party devices |
| Google Assistant | Google Home, Nest speakers, Android phones, smart displays |
| Apple Siri | iPhone, iPad, Mac, Apple Watch, HomePod |
| Samsung Bixby | Samsung smartphones, smart TVs, Galaxy watches |
| Microsoft Cortana | Windows computers, Microsoft devices |
When a customer asks their voice assistant to find a local business, the assistant pulls information from various data sources to provide an answer. Having your business optimized across these platforms ensures you appear in those results.
For local businesses, these statistics translate into real opportunities:
The bottom line: when customers use voice search to find businesses like yours, you want to be the answer they hear.
When typing, people use short phrases like "plumber Miami." When speaking, they use natural language: "Who is the best plumber near me that's open right now?"
2. Question-Based Queries
Voice searches often begin with "who," "what," "where," "when," "why," or "how." For example: "Where can I get my car fixed nearby?"
3. Local Intent
4. Single Answer Results
Unlike traditional search results that display multiple options on a page, voice assistants often provide just one answer. Being that single answer means winning the customer.
Apex Media Solutions optimizes your business for the five major voice search platforms:
The most popular smart speaker platform in the United States. When customers ask Alexa to find a local business, your optimized listing helps ensure you appear in the results.
Found on Samsung smartphones and smart TVs. As Samsung continues to expand its smart device ecosystem, Bixby optimization becomes increasingly valuable.
Integrated with Windows computers and Microsoft products. While smaller than other platforms, Cortana still represents an important segment of voice search users.
When you enroll in our Voice Search Optimization program, we ensure your business is properly configured across all major voice platforms. This includes:
We verify and sync your business name, address, phone number, hours, and services across all voice platforms. Consistency is critical—voice assistants cross-reference multiple data sources, and conflicting information can cause your business to be excluded from results.
We ensure your business is categorized correctly on each platform so you appear for relevant voice queries. For example, if you are an HVAC contractor, we make sure you appear when someone asks, "Find an air conditioning repair company near me."
Each voice platform has unique requirements. We configure your business on each platform according to their specific guidelines and data formats.
Voice platforms update their algorithms and requirements regularly. We monitor your listings and make adjustments as needed to maintain your visibility.
Investing in voice search optimization provides several advantages for your business:
Voice search optimization reinforces your local SEO efforts. The same factors that help you rank in voice search—accurate information, strong reviews, and consistent citations—also improve your traditional search rankings.
Understanding how customers use voice search helps you appreciate why optimization matters. Here are common voice search scenarios:
Scenario 1: The Urgent Need
"Alexa, find an emergency plumber near me."
A homeowner has a burst pipe at 10 PM. They need help immediately and ask Alexa for options. If your plumbing business is optimized for voice search, you could be the answer.
Scenario 2: The On-the-Go Search
"Hey Siri, where's the nearest coffee shop?"
A commuter wants coffee before work but does not want to type while walking. They ask Siri, who provides the closest option. If your café is optimized, you capture that customer.
Scenario 3: The Research Query
"OK Google, what's the best-rated dentist in my area?"
A new resident is looking for a dentist. They ask Google Assistant, which pulls information from reviews and business listings. If your dental practice has strong reviews and optimized listings, you appear in the results.
Scenario 4: The Hands-Free Search
"Hey Google, call the nearest auto repair shop."
A driver notices a warning light on their dashboard. Instead of pulling over to search, they ask Google Assistant to find and call a nearby shop. If your auto repair business is optimized, you receive that call.
To maximize your voice search presence, your Google Business Profile should include:
Your Digital Marketing Manager works with you to optimize your Google Business Profile as part of your overall voice search strategy.
Customer reviews significantly impact voice search results. When voice assistants evaluate which businesses to recommend, they consider:
A business with numerous recent, positive reviews is more likely to be recommended by voice assistants than one with few or outdated reviews.
Interested in boosting your reviews? Ask your Digital Marketing Manager about our Reputation Management program.
If you are already an Apex Media Solutions client, voice search optimization may be included in your current package or available as an add-on service. Contact your Digital Marketing Manager to discuss your options.
If you are new to Apex Media Solutions, our voice search optimization program includes:
Voice platforms update at different speeds. Some changes take effect within days, while others may take several weeks to propagate across all platforms. Your Digital Marketing Manager will keep you informed of progress during your monthly appointments.
Yes. The same factors that improve voice search visibility—accurate information, consistent citations, and strong reviews—also benefit your traditional Google rankings.
While a website is not strictly required, having one improves your credibility and provides voice assistants with more information about your business. It also gives customers somewhere to go after they discover you through voice search.
Voice search tracking is still evolving. However, you can monitor indicators such as increases in phone calls, direction requests, and website visits. Your Digital Marketing Manager reviews these metrics with you during monthly appointments.
Your Digital Marketing Manager is here to answer questions about voice search optimization and help you maximize your visibility on voice platforms. Contact them directly or email our support team at dmm@apexmediasol.com.