Introduction to AI Overview
If you’re working in SEO or digital marketing, you might have noticed how Google search results look different nowadays. That instant answer that pops up at the top of the page is called AI Overview, and it’s changing the game. Instead of having to click through to various websites, users can now get direct answers right there in the search results, thanks to AI.
Michal Kurzanowski, the CEO of OC24 LTD, a marketing company specializing in SEO, has seen a lot of changes over the years. But this new AI feature? It’s something entirely new. With his experience in helping businesses get better rankings, Michal understands how AI Overviews are reshaping SEO.
What is AI Overview?
AI Overview is a feature that gives users the answer they’re looking for right at the top of the search results. Google’s AI pulls information from all over the web and gives a short response to the user’s query. Instead of making them click on multiple links, the AI compiles all the relevant info into a summary.
The answers are usually 160-170 words, just enough to give the user what they need, fast. But here’s the catch: when users get answers this quickly, they’re less likely to click on any links below. And that’s a problem for SEO because it means less traffic to your website.
How AI Overview Affects SEO
AI Overviews take up a massive chunk of a screen’s real estate. When they appear, they often dominate the top of the search results page, meaning even if your page ranks on page one, you could get passed over because the AI response already answered the question.
It’s not all bad, though. 33.4% of the links that show up in AI Overviews are actually from pages that are also ranked in the top 10 of organic search. So, it’s not like it’s impossible to get featured if your page isn’t number one, but it is tougher.
Now here’s where it gets interesting: 46.5% of the URLs that appear in AI Overviews are from websites ranked outside the top 50. So even pages that aren’t ranking highly can still be included. But, for those trying to grab organic traffic, it’s a double-edged sword.
The domains that show up most often on search pages with AI Overviews are youtube.com, quora.com, wikipedia.org, reddit.com, among others, and information requests are most often generated by AI Overview (about 93%).
How to Optimize Content for AI Overview
This is a dynamic field, and you need to be ready for changes, because SEO is always about challenges, testing, algorithm changes, and so on. AI Overview can actually help a brand become more recognizable and improve its reputation if you get on its radar. Content optimization is still important, but other factors now play a major role. Here are some tips to create top-notch content that Google’s artificial intelligence will like:
- Follow Google’s recommendations for authors, as it automatically selects links for AI-powered response blocks from various sources, including sites that meet search engine quality standards.
- Start with a strong intro: The first 100 words of your page are crucial. Make sure they answer the user’s main question right off the bat. The quicker you get to the point, the better.
- Keep content fresh and relevant: AI likes fresh content. Update your pages regularly, and make sure your information is always relevant to the questions people are asking.
- Use descriptive headings: Don’t just throw random headings in there. Use H1, H2, and H3 tags that are specific and describe exactly what the content is about.
- Q&A format works well because many AI responses are structured this way, and it helps increase your chances of being selected.
- Lists Are key: Artificial intelligence loves numbered and bulleted lists! About 40% of responses come from content that includes lists.
- Quality over quantity: Share original research, insights, and your own case studies. Google isn’t interested in generic stuff – it’s looking for real expertise.
- Including quotes and statistics makes your content more authoritative. It can boost your chances of being featured by 30-40%, a huge win.
- Visuals and interactive elements: Add videos, infographics, and quizzes to keep users engaged.
- EEAT principle: The one’s huge – make sure your content reflects expertise, authoritativeness, and trustworthiness. The more your content shows these qualities, the better.
Conclusion
Let’s be real: the SEO world is shifting fast. AI Overviews are here to stay, and it’s up to content creators to adapt. The days of getting traffic just by ranking high are changing. Now, it’s about providing the best, most relevant, and easiest-to-understand content that answers users’ questions quickly.
For businesses, staying ahead of these changes is essential. Embrace AI Overviews by optimizing your content in a way that both Google and users love, and you’ll not only keep up but thrive.
FAQs
- What is AI Overview?
AI Overview is a feature that gives users the answer they’re looking for right at the top of the search results. - How does AI Overview affect SEO?
AI Overviews take up a massive chunk of a screen’s real estate, which can lead to less traffic to your website. - How can I optimize my content for AI Overview?
Follow Google’s recommendations, start with a strong intro, keep content fresh and relevant, use descriptive headings, and include lists, quotes, and statistics. - Can I disable AI Overview?
No, AI Overview can’t be disabled, but you can use a Chrome extension to block it from appearing in your browser. - How can I increase my chances of being featured in AI Overview?
Create high-quality content that reflects expertise, authoritativeness, and trustworthiness, and use a Q&A format, lists, and visuals to make your content more engaging.
