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Visual Searches: Transforming How Customers Discover Products

An image of a woman about to get out of a car, alongside the title "Visual Searches Help Find Products Faster" | Online Marketing Guildford

The way customers search for products is evolving rapidly. From typing keywords into search engines to using voice assistants, technology continues to reshape online behaviours.

One of the most significant eCommerce advancements in recent years is the rise of visual search – a feature that allows users to find products using images instead of text.

If your company is carrying out online marketing in Guildford or Surrey, tapping into this trend is critical. By incorporating key strategies and (perhaps with the help of a professional marketing agency in Surrey), you can make sure that your business is ready to harness the power of visual search.

Visual search enables users to upload or capture an image to find similar products, information, or services online. Platforms like Google Lens, Pinterest Lens, and Bing Visual Search are leading the way in this technology, with adoption increasing across industries.

Supporting Stat:
According to Think With Google, 62% of Millennials and Gen Z prefer visual search over any other technology when it comes to discovering products.

How Visual Search Enhances Product Discovery

1. More Accurate Results

Visual search improves product discovery by providing more precise and relevant results. Instead of relying on the user to describe an item in words, an image does the work.

Example:
A customer in Guildford searching for a specific handbag can upload a photo instead of typing vague terms like “black leather bag”, allowing them to find exactly what they’re looking for.

Why It Matters for Businesses:
Using visual search optimisation as part of your strategy for online marketing in Guildford ensures your products appear in these results. Partnering with an expert marketing agency in Surrey can help you optimise your product images with metadata and alt text for better visibility.

2. Streamlined User Experience

Visual search simplifies the customer journey by reducing the time and effort it takes to find a product. This convenience can significantly boost conversions.

Why It Matters for Businesses:
As HubSpot highlights, a smoother user experience leads to higher engagement and sales, making visual search a valuable tool for eCommerce brands looking to grow.

3. Driving Local Traffic

For businesses in Guildford, visual search also offers local benefits. For instance, a user might take a photo of a product in-store and search online for local availability. Optimising for online marketing in Guildford ensures your store appears in those results.

Pro Tip:
Use location-based SEO to ensure your business is listed for relevant local searches.

How Visual Search Fits into Modern Online Marketing

Visual search isn’t just a passing trend – it’s becoming a core component of digital marketing strategies. Here’s how businesses can adapt:

1. Optimise Product Images

High-quality, detailed product images with proper alt text and metadata are essential for visual search.

Tip:
Tools like Canva and Adobe Photoshop can help create standout visuals, while platforms like SEMrush can provide a solid basis for SEO optimisation.

2. Leverage Social Media Platforms

Platforms like Pinterest and Instagram already incorporate visual search capabilities. Make sure your brand’s content is optimised for these platforms by using descriptive captions and tagging products.

Example:
Showcasing local products on social media increases the chance of discovery via visual search.

3. Embrace Augmented Reality (AR)

AR takes visual search to the next level, allowing users to “try before they buy.” Brands that incorporate AR features into their online presence can stand out from the competition.

Statistical Insight:
According to eMarketer, AR-based shopping tools can increase conversion rates by 20%.

With visual search gaining momentum, it’s essential for businesses in Guildford and Surrey to stay ahead of the curve. Here’s why:

  • Increased Competition:
    More customers are using visual search tools, and businesses that optimise for it will have an edge.
  • Local Relevance:
    For businesses focused on online marketing in Guildford and the surrounding areas, visual search optimisation ensures local customers can find you easily.
  • Enhanced ROI:
    Investing in visual search optimisation pays dividends in terms of customer satisfaction and conversions.

Pro Tip:
Partnering with a marketing agency in Surrey can provide the expertise needed to implement a visual search strategy effectively.

  1. Use High-Quality Images
    Make sure that all of your product images are high-resolution and showcase products from multiple angles.
  2. Add Descriptive Metadata
    Include relevant and location-specific keywords in your image alt texts and file names for better SEO.
  3. Build a Mobile-First Strategy
    Visual search is predominantly used on mobile devices, so ensure your website is optimised for mobile performance.
  4. Monitor Performance
    Use tools like Google Search Console to track how visual search impacts your traffic and conversions.

As technology advances, visual search will become even more integrated into customer journeys. Businesses that invest in this technology now will reap long-term benefits in visibility, engagement, and sales.

In fact, according to Forbes, visual search could account for 30% of eCommerce revenue by the end of 2025, making it a must-have tool for businesses.

Contact Thunderbolt for Online Marketing Guildford

Visual search is transforming how customers discover products, offering businesses a unique opportunity to stand out. By optimising for visual search and partnering with a professional marketing agency in Surrey, you can ensure your business stays ahead of the competition.

Need help with your visual search strategy or other online marketing in Guildford? Contact Thunderbolt today to get started!