Google’s shift toward AI-driven search experiences is no longer experimental—it’s here, and it’s transforming how users interact with the web. With the rise of Google AI Mode and AI Overviews, traditional search engine optimization strategies are being redefined.
In a recent webinar hosted by Nick Gallagher, SEO Lead at Conductor, marketers got a closer look at how AI Overviews are impacting organic visibility, click-through rates (CTR), and overall website traffic.
So, what’s changing, who’s being hit hardest, and—more importantly—how should your SEO strategy evolve in 2025?
Let’s dive in.
What Is Google AI Mode?
Google AI Mode is part of the company’s broader Search Generative Experience (SGE). Instead of serving up the familiar list of blue links, AI Mode synthesizes information from multiple sources and displays a conversational answer at the top of the SERP—known as an AI Overview.
These answers often push traditional search results further down the page and may significantly reduce organic click-through rates, especially when users get what they need without clicking.
This shift is transformational, and it demands new SEO strategies.
AI Mode vs Traditional Search: What’s the Difference?
In traditional search, Google presents results based on ranking signals like relevance, backlinks, domain authority, and structured content.
But in AI Mode, results are generated dynamically using Google’s generative AI models. Instead of ranking pages, AI Mode cites them—often pulling bits of text, data, or structured answers from multiple domains.
Key differences:
- No predictable ranking: Your page might be cited in one search but ignored in another.
- Higher volatility: Results vary between users, sessions, and even repeated queries.
- Citations over rankings: Being cited in an AI Overview becomes more valuable than being #1 in organic results.
How AI Mode Impacts Click-Through Rates
One of the biggest concerns highlighted in the webinar was the decline in CTR due to AI Overviews.
Why?
Because users are finding answers directly in the AI box. No clicks needed.
Key takeaways:
- Some industries are seeing drastic CTR drops, especially where quick answers are common.
- For branded queries or informational searches, the AI Overview may fully satisfy user intent.
- This reduces organic traffic, even for high-ranking pages.
If your business depends on top-of-funnel traffic, this shift could significantly impact lead volume and conversions.
Which Industries Are Being Affected the Most?
While every site may feel the ripple effects of AI-driven SERPs, some are more vulnerable:
| Industry | Risk Level |
| Health & Wellness | 🔴 High |
| Financial Services | 🔴 High |
| Local Services | 🟡 Medium |
| Ecommerce | 🟡 Medium |
| B2B SaaS | 🟢 Lower |
These sectors are often fact-based or query-driven, making them prime targets for Google’s AI to summarize and display directly on the SERP.
How to Audit Your Presence in AI Overviews
Want to know if your brand is being mentioned in AI Mode?
Here’s how to start:
AI Overview Audit Checklist:
- Run test searches for your key topics and observe if your site appears in citations.
- Use browser extensions or SERP tracking tools (like SEO Radar, SGE Monitor, or custom scripts) to flag AI responses.
- Note which competitor domains are being cited.
- Analyze which types of content (FAQ, guides, local listings) are showing up.
This helps you reverse-engineer what AI Overviews prioritize.
How to Optimize for Google AI Mode
Nick Gallagher offered several actionable SEO tips in the webinar for staying visible in this new landscape:
1. Build Entity Recognition
Google’s AI leans heavily on entities (people, brands, places). Strengthen your presence on:
- Wikipedia
- LinkedIn
- Google Business Profile
- Author bios and structured data
2. Create Topical Clusters
Cover your niche thoroughly using semantic SEO. Instead of isolated blog posts, build interconnected topic hubs with internal links.
3. Use Clear, Structured Content
Use:
- Short paragraphs
- FAQ blocks
- Schema markup (FAQPage, HowTo, Article)
- Bullet points and definitions
4. Publish on Trusted Platforms
Google’s AI often pulls from Reddit, YouTube, and Quora. Repurpose your content on these platforms to boost visibility.
5. Optimize for Local AI Searches
Especially important for local businesses:
- Keep Google Maps listings updated
- Include location schema
- Get reviews on Google and trusted platforms
How to Track SEO Performance in AI-Driven SERPs
In this AI-first search world, traditional rank tracking alone isn’t enough.
Metrics to monitor:
- Branded visibility in AI Overviews
- Citation frequency across queries
- CTR trends over time
- Search console impressions vs actual traffic
- SERP features share (e.g., Featured Snippets, AI blocks)
Use tools like Google Search Console, Semrush, Ahrefs, and SGE monitoring tools to capture evolving AI impact.
The Future of SEO in AI Search
We’re entering the era of Generative Engine Optimization (GEO)—where helpful content, contextual authority, and semantic depth matter more than backlinks and title tags alone.
Success in 2025 and beyond means adapting faster than the AI shifts.
SEO isn’t dead—but the rules are being rewritten.
Need Help with Generative Engine Optimization?
If you’re looking to future-proof your brand’s visibility in Google’s evolving AI-driven ecosystem, we can help.
👉 Reach out to us at business@serpfactor.com for tailored strategies focused on Generative Engine Optimization (GEO), AI SERP tracking, and content optimization for AI Overviews.Let’s build your visibility where it matters most—in the future of search.