Say It, Book It: The Impact Of Voice Search On The Hotel Industry

Are you tired of scrolling through endless search results to find the perfect hotel for your next vacation? Well, have no fear, voice search is here! In this article, we’ll explore the impact of voice search on hotel search and booking habits and how you can use it to your advantage.

First things first, what exactly is voice search? Simply put, it’s a technology that allows you to speak to your device (such as your phone or smart speaker) to search. Instead of typing in your query, you can say it out loud and receive results in seconds. This technology has become increasingly popular in recent years, with more and more people opting to use voice search over traditional text-based search.

So how does voice search impact hotel search and booking habits? For starters, it’s important to note that voice search typically produces different results than text-based search. This is because voice search queries tend to be more conversational and specific than the short and choppy queries we use when typing. This means that if you’re searching for a hotel using voice search, you’re more likely to receive results that match your exact criteria.

In addition, voice search can make the booking process easier and more efficient. Instead of manually typing in all your information, you can speak it aloud and have your device do the rest. This can save you time and frustration, especially if you’re on the go or have limited access to a keyboard.

So what can you do to optimize your hotel’s presence in voice search results? Here are a few tips:

1. Use natural language in your website content and metadata. This will help your website appear in more conversational voice search queries.
2. Create content that answers common questions about your hotel, such as “Do you allow pets?” or “Is there a pool on site?” This will increase your chances of appearing in voice search results for those specific queries.
3. Make sure your website is mobile-friendly and easy to navigate. Mobile devices often use voice search, so your website must be optimized for that experience.
4. Claim and optimize your Google My Business listing. This will help your hotel appear in local voice search results, such as “hotels near me.”

Here are two examples of hotels that have been successful in implementing voice search in the hotel industry:

1. Aloft Hotels: In 2018, Aloft Hotels launched their voice-activated assistant, named “Aloft TiGi” (short for “text it, get it”). This assistant allows guests to use their voice to request hotel services, such as room service or housekeeping, and even control the in-room technology. Aloft Hotels has reported that the use of TiGi has led to an increase in guest satisfaction and has helped to differentiate its brand from competitors.
2. Marriott International: As mentioned earlier, Marriott International has also successfully implemented voice search technology in their hotels. In addition to offering in-room assistants powered by Amazon’s Alexa, they have optimized their website and online presence for voice search. By using natural language and long tail keywords in their content and metadata, they have increased their visibility in voice search results and made it easier for potential guests to find and book their properties.

Both Aloft Hotels and Marriott International have demonstrated the potential of voice search technology to enhance the guest experience and drive bookings in the hotel industry. By embracing this technology and finding innovative ways to use it, these hotels have positioned themselves as leaders in the industry and have set themselves apart from their competitors.

Voice search is no longer a futuristic concept – it’s here and changing the game in the hotel industry. Hotels can stay ahead of the curve and win the booking game by optimizing their online presence for voice search and finding innovative ways to incorporate this technology into the guest experience. The possibilities are endless, whether through in-room assistants or natural language.

Ready to take your business to the next level? Let’s talk! Call us today and see how our digital marketing expertise can help you.