Anyone who has consistently used search engines over the past couple of years has likely noticed a change in the results. Previously, searching on Google led to a list of linksHyperlinks, also known as links, are the connection points on a webpage that take you to other webpages. users needed to click on for more information. Now, you will notice something called an AI overview at the very top, especially when Googling a question.
Are you a brand wondering about the future of SEO and wanting to ensure your SEO strategy stays fresh? If you haven’t yet dived into Google AI summaries, you likely have a bunch of questions, such as what does AI overview mean, how does AI Overview work, and what will be the future of SEO? As a digital marketing agency specialising in high-quality managed SEO services, we’re here to answer your questions.
What is AI Overview on Google Search?
Let’s start by understanding Google’s AI overviews. They are essentially a search feature that utilises AI to provide searchers with informative and concise answers. They appear at the very top of Google search results, before the list of links and the “people also askThe People Also Ask (PAA) SERP feature is a Google Search feature that displays similar questions to the one you typed into the search box.” box.
You can click “Show more” on Google AI Overviews for more information. The information is presented in a snappy, to-the-point manner with bullet points for easy skimming. For users, it makes seeking answers a lot easier.
For example, if you were to search “What are the best exercises for lower back pain?” on Google, the first thing you’ll see is the AI overview with a list of strengthening exercises for the back. It means users do not even have to click on links to receive the information they are looking for.
Of course, this has changed the SEO landscape, meaning SEO services have had to adapt to catch up. For many, it is even worrying to consider what happens when users receive spotlighted answers without having to click on websites anymore.
Is AI Overview Free?
Yes. AI Overview is part of Google Search, which remains completely free for users. Google automatically displays these overviews at the top of search results without users needing to take any action.
However, Google has recently introduced Google AI ads, which means there will be a way to pay for placements in AI Overviews.
How to Rank in AI Overviews
AI overviews use information from authority sources. On the side of AI overviews, Google displays the exact sources cited, allowing users to click on them to learn more. That means SEO still definitely matters, as you have the ability to rank higher on AI overviews, increasing your chances of receiving clicks.
So, how do you rank for AI overviews? Learn how to optimise for AI Overviews with these steps.
Create High-Quality Content
Undoubtedly, one of the best ways to rank higher for AI Overviews is by writing genuinely high-quality content on your website. For this, you want to be clear, precise, and to the point. Think about answering the most common user questions. Avoid complicated jargon; instead, use plain, engaging language that is well structured. AI is far more likely to source your content if you do this.
Need help with writing quality content? Check out our content strategy services.
Focus on the User
If you have sought out SEO consulting in recent years, you will likely have already heard about the importance of creating content directly for users, as this is something that Google has prioritised for a while now. It’s as important as ever when it comes to AI Overviews, as these overviews focus exactly on what the user is searching for, aiming to provide precise results that answer questions.
So, for AI Overviews optimisation, cater to the searcher’s intent. Your goal is to provide a solution within your content, whether that’s answering a question directly or pointing the user in the correct direction. You should also structure your content so that it is easy to read (and skim).
Avoid large blocks of text, as this can be off-putting to users; instead, break your content into smaller, more digestible pieces.
Build Authority
Building brand authority is an enormous part of ranking higher on Google and also matters for AI Overviews. Google does not want to show websites with little credibility, after all. There are several ways to build your brand’s authority, some of which we have already mentioned, such as creating high-quality content.
Additionally, earn backlinks from other authoritative sites, as this serves as a trust signal to Google, indicating that your website is also credible. A good link building strategy is essential for this, as is consistently monitoring your backlink profile.
Use the Right Keywords
Yes – keywords still matter. However, it is essential to shift away from stuffing your content with keywords, as Google will likely detect this and avoid ranking your content high. Instead, perform keyword researchKeyword research helps websites unearth the best keywords to drive traffic and visibility. This research is supported by a number of powerful web-based tools, the best of which we’ve listed here. to find the most relevant ones to use you can even use ChatGPT keyword research to make this easier). For AI Overviews, these keywords will often use natural language and be more question-based.
For a comprehensive SEO strategy that incorporates targeted keywords, consider our SEO auditing services.
Track Your Rankings
You need to keep up with your rankings if you want to stay competitive – only then will you know whether you are ranking for particular Ai Overview searches. To achieve this, utilize an Ai overview tracker and monitor your rankings closely. You can monitor your competitors’ activities in this way and adjust your SEO strategies as needed. Are you looking for a way to track rankings? Check out our SEO Rank Tracker Software.
AI and the Future of SEO in Generative Search
There is no denying that the SEO landscape has drastically changed in recent years. However, SEO remains as important as ever – it is just that the older strategies require adjustment (although many of the ranking factors have remained the same or similar).
Nobody can predict the exact future of SEO in digital marketing and generative search, but we can make some guesses based on what we currently know about AI.
Even More Emphasis on Content Quality: High-quality content is becoming increasingly important. Previously, ranking higher meant including more content; however, search engines are now more focused on ranking well-written content that directly appeals to users.
A Shift in KeywordKeywords are the words and phrases that potential customers might search for to find your business. Research: One of the greatest changes is how you should go about performing keyword research. Keywords are undoubtedly still important for ranking, but the most effective keywords to use are those that are more conversational and utilise natural language.
AI Tools for Content Optimisation: Brands are using AI tools for content optimisation more and more. It’s essential to recognize that SEO content and AI-written content are two distinct entities; content entirely written by AI typically requires human oversight to ensure quality.
It’s important to remember that AI is definitely not replacing SEO; it’s just changing it. It always helps to keep up with those in the know regarding SEO – here’s what the experts have to say about AI and how it affects SEO. Staying up-to-date is crucial for keeping competitive.
What Are AI Overviews: In Summary
AI Overviews have quickly become a standard part of Google Search. Now, users receive direct answers to their search queries. This can be intimidating for brands wanting to rank high on Google, but the reality is that there are many ways to fit into this new AI-driven world, and part of that means optimising for these AI overviews.
Staying competitive in a constantly shifting landscape can be challenging, which is why we recommend leveraging our expertise. If you’re ready to boost your SEO game, book a free SEO strategy session with our team today.
