Does the Rise of ChatGPT Mean the End of Google and SEO?

Will ChatGPT Spell the End of Google and SEO?

The answer is no. Here’s why, along with the real changes to expect. Enjoy the read!

A Shift in Search Behavior

Since the advent of OpenAI and ChatGPT, more people are conducting their searches directly through ChatGPT, especially since its integration with Bing. Recent studies show a 5% drop in searches via Google. While this is significant, does it mean a declining use and, therefore, a decreasing importance of Google rankings?

What You Shouldn’t Forget

Google’s position as the undisputed leader in search engines is the result of years of improvements and a powerful algorithm for site ranking. The quality of results displayed based on search terms, language, geographic location, history, and many other factors has earned it users’ trust. People are used to turning to Google when they need something online.

Current AI often relies on Google’s ranking of information sources to provide relevant answers. In other words, for ChatGPT to use our site as a reference, it is crucial for Google to rank us highly for that topic.

What’s the Point if ChatGPT Answers Without Redirecting Users to the Site?

This is a tricky question. During this transitional period, turbulence is inevitable. However, AIs cannot forever rely on Google’s results. After several instances where your site appears as a favorite, AIs will eventually recognize your site as a reliable resource. Then comes the phase of reaping the rewards, with traffic coming from AIs recommending you as a reference.

Data Structuring: The Key to Success

In 2024 and the years to come, structuring data on web pages becomes crucial. Being in the top results on Google must be followed by a structure that facilitates navigation and classification by AI bots. If your data is hard to structure, your SEO will suffer.

Concerned? What Should You Do?

The goal isn’t to make you worry, as the impact might not be significant. However, it’s better to be cautious. If you rely on your site to support your family, it’s wise to take precautions, even if they turn out unnecessary, rather than face difficult changes unprepared.

Right now, anything can happen. This period shouldn’t be taken lightly. Prepare for all scenarios and try to anticipate them, especially with the rise of AI. Also, consider voice and mobile searches. Finally, stay updated with Google’s criteria and conditions to ensure continuity and avoid sudden traffic changes. Look for new ways to attract qualified traffic: develop personalized AI chatbots and mobile apps if you only have a website.

Additionally, I recommend learning change management. It’s a valuable skill, both now and in the future. What is certain is that new opportunities await those ready to seize them. So, it’s not the time to stay in your comfort zone!

What Won’t Change

Content, consistency, recommendations, and positive reviews remain key. The new going dark is pausing your posts; it’s digital suicide. If you haven’t done so yet, you must create an editorial plan and diversify as much as possible the typologies of content you put out. Respond to your community, take care of its needs, and ask to share.

These practices, recommended for a decade, will still remain pivotal for years to come. Not only Google but also social media platforms and AIs increasingly look at these signs to understand if your site or profile is worthy of being surfaced.

So, don’t spend time and effort on it if you either don’t know how or don’t have the time to do it properly. Delegate, but above all, don’t postpone the task. People can be hired for full-time work if the need is full focus in production. Many communication agencies have been offering these kinds of services for all kinds of budgets. And of course, Pulseweaver is a reliable partner in the creation of the solution of AI automation.

Please visit pulseweaver.com before deciding to follow one particular solution.