Introduction
Google is changing search again. AI Overviews, formerly known as SGE (Search Generative Experience), are set to redefine how search results appear. Instead of traditional blue links, users will see AI-generated summaries at the top of search results.
So, how will this impact SEO? Let’s dive in.
1. AI Overviews Will Reduce Organic Clicks
One of the biggest concerns is that AI-generated summaries answer users’ queries directly, reducing the need to click through to websites.
🔹 What this means for SEO:
✅ Less traffic from informational searches.
✅ Websites ranking lower on page one may see a drop in CTR.
✅ Brands will need to focus on featured snippets, structured data, and E-E-A-T signals to stay visible.
2. Higher Importance of High-Quality, Expert Content
Google’s AI will pull from top-ranking, credible sources. This means E-E-A-T (Experience, Expertise, Authoritativeness, Trustworthiness) will be more critical than ever.
🔹 How to adapt:
✅ Publish original, expert-driven content that AI can use.
✅ Use structured data to make content easier for AI to interpret.
✅ Focus on niche authority to rank in AI-generated answers.
3. Shift Toward Conversational & Long-Tail SEO
Since AI Overviews will provide direct answers, traditional keyword-based SEO will shift toward conversational queries and long-tail keywords.
🔹 What this means:
✅ Focus on natural, question-based queries (e.g., “How does AI SEO work in 2024?”).
✅ Optimize for semantic search and voice search.
✅ Use FAQ sections and structured responses in content.
4. More Opportunities for Brand Mentions in AI Summaries
While AI Overviews might reduce clicks, they also present an opportunity for brands to get featured directly in AI-generated responses.
🔹 How to get included in AI summaries:
✅ Consistently publish well-researched, original content.
✅ Optimize for E-E-A-T by showcasing author expertise and credibility.
✅ Use structured data (schema markup) to help Google recognize your content.
5. Increased Competition for Paid Search (Google Ads)
With fewer organic clicks, brands may increase ad spend to maintain traffic, making PPC more competitive.
🔹 What this means for marketers:
✅ Higher cost-per-click (CPC) on Google Ads.
✅ Need for smarter ad strategies and AI-driven PPC optimization.
✅ Stronger focus on converting existing traffic instead of just increasing volume.
6. Local SEO May Become More AI-Driven
Google’s AI Overviews will likely pull data from Google Business Profiles for local searches. This means:
✅ More direct answers for “near me” queries.
✅ Local businesses must optimize their GBP listings with reviews, photos, and Q&As.
✅ Hyperlocal keywords will be more important.
7. Featured Snippets & Structured Data Will Matter More
Since AI Overviews pull from high-ranking sources, featured snippets and structured data will be essential.
🔹 How to optimize for AI search:
✅ Use schema markup to make your content AI-friendly.
✅ Structure content in clear, scannable sections.
✅ Answer FAQs concisely so AI can use them.
The Future of SEO in the AI Era
SEO isn’t dying—it’s evolving. AI Overviews will change how users interact with search, but brands that prioritize high-quality content, conversational queries, and structured data will still win.
Metric Mavens: Your AI SEO Partner
At Metric Mavens, we specialize in AI-driven SEO strategies to help brands thrive in the AI-powered search landscape. Ready to adapt? Let’s talk!