Unlock the Power of Shopify Blog Search: Your Complete Guide [2024 Edition]

Introduction

If you've underestimated the search feature on your online store, consider this: site search is 1.8 times more effective at producing conversions, according to AddSearch ecommerce statistics. This small bar at the corner of your website is a conversion powerhouse. But why stop at conversions? A search function focused on optimization enhances user experience, improves content discoverability, and adds layers of functionality to your blog. From integrating a search bar natively in your Shopify theme to using specialized apps like Bloggle, this guide provides actionable insights every step of the way.

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Why trust us

• We're the creators of Bloggle, a dynamic Shopify blog builder available on the Shopify App Store that fills the gaps in native Shopify blogging capabilities.
• We're a global force: 2000+ merchants across 60 countries have trusted us to amplify their voices.
• Your peers adore us: We have a stellar 4.9/5 rating on the app store.
• We've already empowered 55,000+ blogs written using our versatile app.
• Under our guidance, users have reported up to a 10x boost in Search Engine Optimization (SEO) traffic and revenue.

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So, if you're a merchant looking to elevate your Shopify experience, you're in expert hands.

Why do I need a Search feature for my Shopify blog?

The utility of a search feature on your Shopify store can't be overstated. Here are the core benefits:

Data-driven insights

Every time someone searches for something on the Shopify search bar, you get a peek at a goldmine of data. They are essentially telling you their intent and what they are searching for by giving you the relevant keywords they are looking for. You can use this info to your Shopify app’s advantage. You can show products they want to buy on the homepage, write blog articles or product descriptions they want to read, offer deals that would make them buy from your product page.

Content discoverability

It happens several times that we keep scrolling and scrolling looking for content we are looking for without any luck. A search bar changes that. It makes the process of finding what I am looking for extremely streamlined. Your visitors get to the good stuff quicker, thus they are more likely to hang around. The longer they are on your page (without the frustration of endlessly scrolling and not finding what they want), they are more likely to take action - whether it is signing up for something or making a purchase.

How to add a search bar to your Shopify Blog

Via Shopify

As usual, adding a search bar natively in Shopify is theme-dependent. Unless you want to go through the hassle of writing complex HTML/CSS/Javascript code or API in your Shopify theme HTML editor. What’s more, very few Shopify themes come with the search functionality built-in. Let’s see it in action for the Warehouse theme.

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As you can see, the Warehouse theme search bar searches in both the product as well as the blog pages. Which might not be what you are looking for.

Via Bloggle

Bloggle allows you to create and personalize your blog template so that it has a search bar baked in. This is how you enable it:

Step 1

Log in to your Bloggle Dashboard

Step 2

Click on ‘Blog List layout’ from the ‘Manage styles’ dropdown

Step 3

Click on ‘Navigation & Search’

Step 4

Click on ‘Enable search’

Step 5

You can customize the look and feel of your search feature as per your preferences on each new blog. Hit Save once you’re done. It redirects you to the dashboard.

Step 6

You can now search exclusively within all your blog posts

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Did You Know?

Giving your readers the power of search lets them find anything they want instantly. But that’s not all. With Bloggle, you can also insert products, videos, table of contents, social share buttons, and a lot more into your blogs to make them rich and optimized for website SEO. Give it a checkout today!

Do's and Don’ts of adding a Search feature to your Shopify blog

Do’s:

Implement Faceted Search

Adding options like date, tags, and categories can make a world of difference in search results. Faceted search in Shopify helps users drill down to what they're really looking for.

Handle Synonyms Well

Let's say a user searches for 'sneakers' while another types 'trainers.' Your search algorithm should recognize that these terms are interchangeable in English. This kind of attention to detail takes user experience to the next level.

Include Auto Suggestions and Search History

Auto suggestions save time and can even guide users to what they didn't know they were looking for. And enabling search history? That's like giving users a 'save game' option for your blog. They can pick up right where they left off the next time they visit.

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Don’ts

Avoid Jargon

Keep it simple. When a user types a search query, they want clear, understandable results. Don't muddle the water by using industry jargon or technical terms in the search terms that could alienate your audience from your storefront.

Don't Slow Things Down

A slow search can be worse than no search at all. Avoid using complex algorithms that can increase your site's load time. It's worth noting that as many as 68% of shoppers would not return to a site that provided a poor search experience. (Source)

Source: https://www.bloomreach.com/en/blog/2015/site-search-is-sexier-than-you-think

Limit Filter Options

It's tempting to offer a multitude of filters for that perfectly tailored search result. But beware—too many choices can paralyze a user. It's called choice paralysis, and it's a real thing. Offer enough to help but not so much that you hinder.

Conclusion

By now, you should be convinced of the need for a search page feature on your Shopify blog. You understand that it's not just a cosmetic add-on, but a powerful tool for gathering actionable customer data and making your content easily discoverable on the page and by extension, on social media. And with the do's and don'ts in mind, you're well-equipped to make informed choices in implementing your search feature. The good news? Adding a search bar doesn't have to be a technical hurdle. With apps like Bloggle, it's easier than you might think.

FAQs

1. How do I add a Search button to a Shopify blog?

You've got two main options: go native with your Shopify theme or use an app like Bloggle. In Shopify, you can add a search form to your theme’s header (near the page title) when you add blogs or create a separate page for search results. Both have their merits, and the choice depends on your specific needs.

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2. Why should I add a Shopify blog Search button?

Think of it as a shortcut to understanding your customer. It's also a tool for making your blog more user-friendly. You get actionable insights and improve user experience—two birds, one stone.