Zero-click searches happen when users find answers directly on the search engine results page without clicking any external website link.
What are Zero-Click Searches?
Zero-click searches occur when search engines like Google display featured snippets, knowledge panels, maps, or calculators that provide instant answers.
Why Zero-Click Searches Matter:
- Reduce website traffic opportunities.
- Affect click-through rates (CTR).
- Force brands to optimize for featured snippets and rich results.
- Influence keyword targeting strategies.
- Important for local SEO (maps, directions, opening hours).
Types of Zero-Click Results:
- Featured Snippets – Quick answers displayed on top.
- Knowledge Panels – Information boxes about people, places, or businesses.
- Local Packs – Map-based business results.
- Direct Answers – Conversions, time, weather, definitions.
- Calculators & Tools – Currency converters, BMI calculators, etc.
Example in Practice:
A user searches “time in New York” and instantly sees the current time in the SERP without visiting any site.