“Hey Google, find a plumber near me.” “Alexa, what’s the best Italian restaurant in Sarasota?” Voice search is exploding, and for Sarasota businesses, it represents a massive opportunity. These queries are overwhelmingly local and have high commercial intent. Optimizing for voice search is no longer futuristic; it’s a critical part of a modern local SEO strategy.
How Voice Search is Different
Voice searches are conversational, question-based, and often include “near me” or local modifiers. People don’t speak like they type.
- Typed Search: “Sarasota brunch”
- Voice Search: “Hey Google, where can I get a good brunch with outdoor seating in downtown Sarasota?”
How to Optimize Your Sarasota Business for Voice Search
1. Target Question-Based Keywords with Long-Tail Phrases
Create content that directly answers the questions your customers are asking. Use natural language.
- “What are the hours for the Marie Selby Botanical Gardens?”
- “How much does it cost to rent a boat on Siesta Key?”
- “Who is the best emergency dentist in Lakewood Ranch?”
2. Create a Robust FAQ Page
An FAQ page is a perfect format for voice search. Structure each question as an H2 or H3 header, and provide a concise, direct answer immediately below. This is exactly how Google sources answers for voice results.
3. Ensure NAP Consistency Everywhere
Voice assistants rely on accurate data from local citations and your Google Business Profile. If your name, address, or phone number is inconsistent across the web, you will not be chosen as the voice search result.
4. Optimize for “Near Me” and Local Intent
Voice search is inherently local. Ensure your content includes clear location signals for Sarasota and its neighborhoods (Siesta Key, St. Armands, Lakewood Ranch, etc.).
The Ultimate Goal: The Position Zero “Featured Snippet”
Voice assistants often read the answer from the Google Featured Snippet. To win this spot, provide clear, concise answers to common questions at the beginning of your content, using bullet points or numbered lists where appropriate.