Search is changing faster than ever. And 2025 is looking wild. With AI Overviews shaking things up on Google, getting those juicy clicks now takes more than just ranking first.
If you’re an SEO or content creator, don’t panic. This is your time to shine. In this article, we’ll break down simple, practical ways to win traffic—even when AI tries to steal your spotlight.
What Are AI Overviews Anyway?
In case you’ve missed it, Google’s rolling out something called AI Overviews (formerly known as Search Generative Experience). These are summaries generated by AI that appear at the very top of some search results.
They aim to answer user questions without the user needing to click on any link.
Cool for users. Super scary for website owners.
So what can we do?
The Good News
AI doesn’t make original content. It grabs content from websites—like yours. That means your content still matters a lot. You just have to adapt.
Here are ways to win in this new game.
1. Write for Humans and Machines
AI Overviews are looking for clear answers. When your content is clear and direct, AI will quote—or link—to it. That gives you a chance to stand out even if you’re not in the top organic slot.
Tips:
- Use short paragraphs (like this!)
- Answer the main question right away
- Use simple language—grade 6 reading level if possible
- Break up your content with headings and bullet points
The easier it is for AI to parse your content, the more likely it is to get featured.
2. Own the Follow-Up
AI Overviews often answer the first question. But that leads users to ask more.
Example: Someone searches for “best camera for travel.” The AI Summary might suggest 2-3 models. But what about:
- Real user reviews?
- Sample travel photos?
- Accessories or comparisons?
That’s where your content can shine.
Create deep, helpful sub-content. Think step-by-step guides, pros and cons lists, and unique perspectives. These give users reasons to click.
3. Use Real Examples
AI Overviews are good—almost too good. But you know what they can’t do?
- Tell personal stories
- Showcase raw opinions
- Share firsthand experience
Readers are getting smarter. They can spot generic info. By adding real photos, quotes, and stories to your content, you make it one-of-a-kind.
And guess what? One-of-a-kind content gets clicked.
4. Optimize for Click Desires, Not Just Click Rates
CTR is king. But emotional connection is the crown. What does that mean? You need to tap into what people really want when they search.
Look beyond keywords. Think about:
- Fears (Will I buy the wrong thing?)
- Goals (Can this help me feel or look better?)
- Values (Is this eco-friendly? Is it worth the money?)
Build your headlines and meta descriptions with those pull factors in mind.
Example:
Instead of: “10 Hiking Shoes for 2025”
Try: “10 Trail-Tested Hiking Shoes That Won’t Wreck Your Feet”
5. Use FAQ Blocks Strategically
Google loves structured information. And FAQ blocks do 2 things:
- Answer common questions fast
- Increase chances of getting into AI snippets or People Also Ask
Smart placement of FAQ sections near the top or bottom of your article gives users quick wins—and might give you the snippet win too.
6. Embrace Video & Visuals
Video isn’t optional anymore. As AI Overviews get smarter, they may start pulling from transcribed or summarized video content too.
If you’re not using video yet, start now:
- Quick demos
- Explainers
- Case studies with talking head format
Add transcripts below each video. That lets AI find and understand your content better.
7. Track AI Visibility with New Metrics
Normal rankings don’t tell the full story anymore. You also need to know where and how your content shows inside AI Overviews.
New tools are coming that show you:
- Which pages are being mentioned in AI Overviews
- If your brand is visible in the AI summary
- The kinds of questions AI is funneling from your content
Keep an eye on tools like SEMRush, Ahrefs, and SurferSEO—they’re rolling out AI tracking features fast.
8. Build Topical Authority
AI favors trusted sources. Help Google trust yours by going deep in one area first.
Don’t just create one article on a topic. Create ten. Or more.
Think like a mini-Wikipedia:
- Create clusters of related content
- Link between them smartly
- Use consistent naming and categories
This gives you stronger chances to show up in AI Overviews, people also ask, featured snippets—and good old SEO results too.
Final Thoughts: Humans Still Rule
It’s easy to get discouraged. AI Overviews seem fast and smart. But remember: they don’t understand emotion, nuance, or lived experience like you do.
Your job now is this:
- Make clear, helpful content
- Use human stories
- Think beyond just answering questions—connect with people
AI might take some clicks. But if you follow these tips, you’ll still get clicks that count.
SEO in 2025 isn’t about beating the AI. It’s about working alongside it—and being a voice that still matters to real people.
