SEO keeps changing, but this time the noise is louder than ever. It is because of AI intervention.
The SEED for New SEO
Even before search engines adapted to AI, it is ChatGPT that took the world by storm with its generative capabilities and search experience.
OpenAI’s ChatGPT is providing the information, giving answers, and even comprehending complex queries within seconds.
People started using it frequently – testing, verifying, and researching. The numbers started growing significantly.
To stay in the game, Google has introduced – ‘AI Overview’ on the top of traditional search results.
AI Overview is an advanced search feature that summarizes information and give direct answers instantly.
Shift: Visibility to Limelight
Google’s AI picks the content from multiple sources and curate them into a single best answer.
The new search generative experience led to a major shift in SEO. It is about enhancing user experience and creating real value.
Recent stats show that there is a 60% decline in clicks – which means only 40% of users scroll down for more information.
In other words, 60% of searchers are satisfied with answers in AI Overview itself.
The focus is shifted from visibility to limelight.
Now Brands are seeking attention from AI results. They believe appearing in AI Overviews and AI citations are more impactful than appearing in traditional search results.
The Debate: Old SEO vs New SEO
The new search generative experience sparkled a new debate on social media platforms – Old SEO vs New SEO.
It is an ongoing debate in the SEO community, everyday.
SEO professionals are creating awareness about ‘New SEO’ methods, while other section of them are advocating for ‘Old SEO’ princiapls with a few more layers.
But, none of these companies so far (OpenAI, Bing, Google, Perplexity) have confirmed that there is a way to optimize for AI results.
Also, Google search central itself suggested to follow the foundational SEO principals.
However, looking at current scenario and emerging patterns, it is clear that ‘New SEO’ is not really a brand-new framework for AI citations.
It is an updated methodology, combined with more good practices to get into the AI rador.
The difference between Old SEO and New SEO is the shift in mindset reshaped by AI landscape.
Note: If you’ve just started your SEO journey in the age of AI, read the Beginner’s SEO Guide to cut through the noise and gain full clarity.
Here are some Frequently asked questions across platforms:
What is Old SEO and New SEO in other words?
Traditional SEO and Modern SEO.
What is Old SEO?
The focus was about ranking for keywords and optimizing pages for SERP.
What is New SEO?
The focus is more on creating good content based on the user intent.
What’s the major difference in traditional SEO and modern SEO?
It is the shift in mindset: Quality over quantity.
What caused this new shift in SEO?
It is the new search generative experience caused by AI.
