Zero Click Searches: What They Are and How to Make Them Work for Your Website

Let’s talk about something that’s changing how people find information online: zero-click searches. You’ve definitely seen them in action already.

What Is a Zero Click Search?

A zero click search happens when someone types a question into Google and gets the answer right on the search results page with no need to click through to an actual website for their answer.

Examples:

• Searching “weather in Appleton” and seeing the forecast on the results page (vs. clicking through to weather.com).
• Typing in “how many ounces in a cup” and getting the answer at the top of the results page.
• Looking up “business hours for Joe’s Coffee” and seeing results directly in the sidebar.

In all of these cases, the “searcher” gets what they need without ever visiting a website. That’s a zero click search.

As a Website Owner, Why Should You Care?

At first, this might sound like bad news. “Wait—people aren’t clicking through to my website anymore? Not necessarily. In fact, you can use this trend to your advantage. When your website is structured the right way, Google is more likely to pull information directly from it to show in featured snippets, local business panels,  FAQs, and more.

That ultimately, means more visibility. Even if someone doesn’t click, they can still see your name, your info, and your expertise.

How to Tailor Your Website for Zero Click Searches

Here are a few simple ways you can position your site to show up in these instant answers:

1. Answer Common Questions Clearly

Think about what your customers might be typing into Google related to your industry, product, or service. Then, answer those questions directly on your site. Google will be more likely to pull that information vs. from a website that isn’t quite as clear.

Use simple headings within your pages like “How much does [your service] cost?” or “What’s the best way to [solve a problem]?” Then, write short, clear answers – maybe just a sentence or two right after the question. These bite-sized answers are what Google loves for featured snippets.

2. Use Proper Formatting

Google needs structure to understand your content. Make it easy:

• Use heading tags (like H2 or H3).
• Use bullet points or numbered lists where it makes sense.
• Use simple, direct language—avoid fluff.

3. Optimize for Local Searches

Want people to see your business info right away?

• Make sure your Google Business Profile is filled out (hours, services, reviews, etc.).
• Add location pages if you serve multiple areas.
• Use keywords on your website like “web designer in Appleton” or “best plumber near Green Bay.”

Google pulls this info into maps, business panels, and voice search results, so having this info up to date can help it display properly when your time comes.

4. Use FAQ Sections

Add a frequently asked questions section to your pages. Better yet, use FAQ schema (a little bit of behind-the-scenes code your web team can help with). This communicates directly with the tech side of Google to say, “Hey, these are common questions we have answered. Show them in search results!”

5. Keep Your Site Fast and Mobile-Friendly

Google rewards fast-loading, mobile-optimized sites. Make sure yours works well on phones and tablets because that’s where most of these searches happen. If your site is slow or not mobile friendly, Google will likely pass you up (for any type of search).

Stay Relevant. We Can Help?

Zero-click search doesn’t mean you’ve lost your audience. It just means you need to show up differently. When you give Google (and your customers) the answers they’re looking for (clearly, quickly, and locally), you can stay top-of-mind even when there’s no click. And when they do need to click? You’ll be the one they remember.

Need a hand? Contact us today!