Google’s started to add AI-generated answers into its search results – and it’s a pretty big shift. Instead of just showing the usual list of website links and sponsored ads, search results now includes a summary pulled together by AI. That means the way people find information (and businesses like yours) is changing. Here’s what you need to know to keep up – and stay visible.
Meet Google’s New AI Overview (AIO)
Google’s latest feature, AI Overview (AIO), is powered by artificial intelligence and is now reshaping the top of the search results page. It doesn’t appear for every search, but when it does, it sits right at the top – even above the paid ads.
AIO generates a brief AI-written summary of the topic a user is searching for, based on content pulled from websites Google deems trustworthy. The summary can be 7–9 lines long and include small link icons or preview panels that link back to the original sources. In other words – if your website provides valuable, relevant information, it could be featured right at the top of Google’s search results, without paying for ads!
📢🫢 Tooting our own horn
Kelly’s Auto’s (shown above) is a Website and SEO client of ours – showing up in the AI overview.
When AIO shows and when it doesn’t
Google doesn’t show AI Overviews for every search – it depends on the nature of the search. You’re more likely to see the summary when you ask a question that needs a bit of explanation or when Google pulls information from multiple sources. Think of it as Google trying to give a helpful summary upfront, especially for complex or research-style queries.
For example:
“Who is the best builder in Whangarei?” Shows the ai overview.
“Builder Whangarei” skips the overview and goes straight to paid ads, map listings and website links.
The new look of page 1
When AIO is present, here’s how the structure of Google’s first page looks:
- AI Overview summary with links to source content (that could be your website)
- Paid ads
- Google Maps listings (for location-based or service-based searches)
- Organic website listings
That’s four different areas competing for attention at the top of the page. And as more features like AIO are added, fewer website listings are visible. In short, page 1 is getting crowded – and competition for visibility is more intense than ever.
What does this mean for your business?
Now more than ever, it’s essential to boost your online visibility. Ideally, your business should appear in all four key spots on page one of Google. At the very least, you must secure the last two , these are non-negotiable:
- AI Overview
- Paid Google Ads
- Google Maps
- Organic search results
To achieve this, you need a strategy that prioritises visibility, credibility, and value.
And while Google’s algorithms continue to evolve, one thing hasn’t changed:
Valuable content is still the #1 way to improve your visibility.
But what is “Valuable Content”?
As AI continues to change the way we search and how information is presented, it’s also changed the way people use the internet. I recently read something from Neil Patel that accurately states that today’s buyers are busy, impatient and spoilt for choice!
That means your content needs to work harder – and faster – to grab attention and deliver real value.
Here’s what valuable content looks like in today’s AI-powered world:
- Answer real questions your ideal clients are asking (think: FAQs)
- Cut the fluff – get to the point quickly and clearly
- Offer useful resources (checklists, templates, calculators)
- Include how-to guides and process explanations
- Share short videos that educate or explain
- Use clear formatting – headings, bullet points, short paragraphs
- Demonstrate your experience, authority, and trustworthiness
The more useful and trustworthy your content is – for both humans and AI – the more likely it is to be featured, clicked on, and remembered.
Is AI Perfect? Not Yet.
While AI Overview is a powerful new tool, it’s still early days. The technology isn’t perfect – and there are still times when it gives vague or even inaccurate responses.
But AI is here to stay. It’s already providing shortcuts to information, saving time, and meeting our need for instant answers. And as it becomes more accurate, more trusted, and more integrated into how we search, it will play an even bigger role in your online visibility.
The Bottom Line?
Google is changing, fast. To stay visible – and competitive – your business needs to adapt. The good news? With the right strategy and content, you can still show up at every key touchpoint: paid ads, map listings, organic search, and now, AI Overview.
If you’re ready to strengthen your SEO and make sure your business isn’t pushed down the page, now’s the time to act.
Ready to make sure your website keeps showing up where it counts?
Let’s chat about your current SEO strategy and how we can help you stay ahead of the curve – and in front of your ideal clients.
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