Search is changing—and fast. With Google rolling out its AI Overviews (AIOs) across more results pages, traditional SEO rules are shifting. If you’ve relied on standard tactics like keywords and backlinks, it’s time for a refresh.
But don’t worry. You don’t need to overhaul everything. With a few smart tweaks, your content can be just as findable in the age of AI-powered search.
Let’s break down what’s happening and how you can stay ahead.
What Is AI Search and Why Should You Care?
AI search (or AI-powered search) goes beyond the traditional list of links we’re used to. Instead, it uses large language models (like the one powering ChatGPT) to generate quick summaries, pull in answers from multiple sources, and give users more direct responses—right on the search page.
These “AI Overviews” are now appearing in almost 55% of Google searches, and since March 2025, their presence has grown by 115%.
That means more people are finding answers without ever clicking through to a website. And that’s a big shift for businesses that rely on Google visibility.
How AI Search Is Changing SEO
Traditional SEO focused on:
Keywords
Backlinks
Meta descriptions
Ranking in the “10 blue links”
AI search looks at:
Natural language
Context-rich answers
Helpful, well-structured content
Authority across multiple sources
Google’s AI doesn’t just rank websites—it reads them. It pulls pieces of content to build its own summary or overview. So if your content is clear, structured, and genuinely useful, you’re more likely to be included in those overviews.
4 Ways to Optimize Your Website for AI Search
1. Focus on Long-Tail, Informational Keywords
Instead of chasing short, competitive terms like “marketing,” go for specific, intent-based phrases like “how to market a new coaching business.” These are easier to rank for and align with the kinds of questions AI Overviews aim to answer.
2. Write Clear, Conversational Content
AI prefers content that reads like a human wrote it (because that’s what users prefer too). Keep it natural, answer real questions, and break things down clearly.
3. Use Subheadings and Bullet Points
Structure matters. A well-organised blog or service page makes it easier for AI to identify key points, questions, and answers. Use H2s, H3s, and bullet lists like this one to help.
4. Keep Updating Older Pages
AI values freshness. Make it a habit to revisit key blog posts or service pages every few months to update stats, add new tips, and improve clarity.
What This Means for your Website
You don’t need a whole new strategy—just a smarter one.
By focusing on helpful content, real questions your customers ask, and clear structure, your website will be more likely to appear in AI Overviews and keep performing well in search.
It’s not about tricking Google anymore. It’s about being genuinely useful.
Conclusion
AI is reshaping search, but that doesn’t mean your SEO strategy is obsolete. By focusing on long-tail keywords, natural writing, and helpful structure, you can stay visible and relevant—even as the search landscape evolves.
Want help reviewing your website’s content or creating SEO-friendly blog posts that work in the age of AI?
Get in touch with us today to find out how we can help.
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