The digital landscape is continuously evolving, and the giants of the industry never cease to innovate. Google, the world’s most popular search engine, is at the forefront of this transformation with its new AI-based search system.
The HDS team have been trying this out for some time now; this evolution is set to disrupt the traditional SEO methodologies and redefine how our clients establish or reinforce their online presence.
The AI Revolution in Google Search
Google’s new AI-based search is an amalgamation of cutting-edge artificial intelligence and machine learning technologies. It aims to provide more accurate search results by understanding users’ queries better and providing personalized results.
One key area where this new AI-based search system will impact is the Search Engine Results Page (SERP). The top carousel positions on Google will become more critical than ever before. Why? Because user interaction with search results is changing drastically.
Carousel Positions: The New Prime Real Estate
Traditionally, businesses have aimed to rank in the top 10 search results. However, with the introduction of the AI-based search, the focus has shifted towards securing a place in the top three positions of the carousel.
The carousel is a horizontal scrollable row of results at the top of the SERP. What makes these positions crucial is the change in user behaviour. Many users do not know or choose to scroll through more selections, significantly reducing the visibility of results outside the carousel.
This looks like it will have a detrimental effect on SEO rankings across the board, and could result in a huge drop in traffic from those websites listed in lower positions.
Content is King, Context is Queen
With Google’s AI-based search, content remains king, but the context has become queen. The AI is designed to understand the intent behind a query. Therefore, providing answers to likely questions through your content is essential for ranking well.
This means that content creators will need to focus more on answering probable questions that users may ask Google. They must anticipate these questions and incorporate comprehensive and precise answers in their content. This approach will not only improve their chances of ranking higher but also increase their content’s relevance and usefulness to users.
A Gamechanger for SEO
The advent of Google’s new AI-based search is a game-changer for SEO. It is going to redefine the importance of carousel positions and emphasize more on the context and relevance of content. Businesses and content creators who adapt quickly to these changes will be better positioned to leverage the benefits of this AI revolution in 2024.
Prepare for this seismic shift in SEO by reevaluating your strategies. Focus on creating high-quality, relevant content that answers users’ queries. Aim for those top carousel positions, and remember, in this new era of AI-based search, it’s not just about being seen—it’s about being relevant.
SEO is the new PPC?
The “good” news with Google’s new AI-based search is that you can see the results of changes very quickly – often within hours during testing.
However. So can your competitors.
While AI search has been on the horizon for years. If we were being cynical, we would point out that a byproduct of such a radical overhaul of Google SEO, could start a whole industry for SEO similar to that seen with PPC bidding.
It will also be an interesting journey from what we’ve seen to date – with whole paragraphs lifted from key websites as part of responses to questions.
It will be interesting to see how Google tackle the inevitable plagiarism complaints from notable publishers online.
If they disavow those websites when looking for answers, they may end up with a less predictable or possibly false outcome. But equally… we know that there will be publisher owners, that will be looking to make a quick buck from suing Google. We’re not legal experts, but right now, it looks like Google would not have a leg to stand on.
Navigating the SEO Landscape with Hot Dog Solutions
Understanding and adapting to these changes may seem daunting for businesses. That’s where Hot Dog Solutions comes in. Our digital agency specialises in creating high-quality, relevant content that aligns with the changing algorithms brought about by Google’s AI-based search system.
Hot Dog Solutions’ team of experts understands the nuances of SGE and knows how to leverage this system to secure top spots in the search carousel for our clients. With a comprehensive suite of services, including web and app development, CRM & communications, and pay on results marketing solutions, Hot Dog Solutions can tailor strategies to each client’s unique needs.
In conclusion, as we stand on the brink of a transformative era in SEO due to Google’s AI-based search, please don’t hesitate to reach out to Hot Dog Solutions, to help you navigate this new landscape.