If you’ve recently Googled something and felt like the search results “knew too much,” you’re not alone, especially with the rise of AI-generated content. In May 2025, Google rolled out new updates that are already changing how we interact with search, including AI Mode and AI Overviews, which utilise generative AI. These features promise faster, more intelligent answers, but they’ve also raised new questions for small businesses:
Will anyone still click on my website in this evolving search experience? Is SEO still worth it?
Here’s the good news: yes, SEO still matters, a lot. But as AI becomes a bigger part of search, how you approach SEO needs to evolve.
Let’s break down what’s changed, what it means for your website, and how to stay ahead.
What Is Google’s AI overviews and AI mode?
In short, focusing on relevance and user experience is key. AI Mode allows searchers to flip a switch and ask questions conversationally, almost like chatting with an assistant. Instead of listing just blue links, Google summarises information using its own AI models and pulls content from multiple sources.
AI Overviews go a step further. These appear at the top of a search results page and give a condensed answer based on multiple websites, sometimes replacing the top organic links entirely.
For example, a search for “how to fix a leaking tap” might show a summarised step-by-step guide generated by AI, pulling snippets from plumbers’ websites, potentially without the user ever clicking through.
Learn more about Google’s AI search update
What This Means for Local Service Providers and Organic Traffic
If you run a trade business in Ballarat, a consultancy that services regional Victoria, or any local service where most customers find you through Google, these updates matter for your search experience. AI Overviews may reduce the number of clicks to individual websites, especially for broad questions or generic searches.
But don’t panic; you can adapt your strategy to include traditional SEO and generative AI techniques.
Here’s what’s important: Google still needs trusted, accurate websites to fuel those summaries. And when customers want to book, buy, or learn more, they’ll still look for websites with real expertise and local authority.
So while AI might give a user a quick tip about how to silence a squeaky door, they’ll still call the Ballarat handyman who appears locally, ranks well, and has solid reviews.
Why Organic SEO Still Matters even with AI Search
Despite the rise of AI summaries, organic results haven’t disappeared. In fact, websites that demonstrate helpful, trustworthy, and expert content are more likely to be cited in AI Overviews and still rank highly underneath traditional SEO metrics.
This means that Investing in SEO, including traditional SEO and generative strategies, is still one of the most valuable ways to grow traffic and leads.especially for service-based and regional businesses seeking to improve their visibility.
Google’s own announcements emphasise this: they still rely heavily on original, high-quality content to train and validate AI responses. If your website answers common customer questions clearly and credibly, you may even become part of those AI Overviews.
Read the full May 2025 SEO update
Using AI in Your Google Search Strategy
Here’s the upside: AI isn’t just a challenge, it’s also a tool.
You can use AI to make your SEO strategy smarter and more efficient:
- Content Planning: Use AI tools to brainstorm topics based on what your customers search for.
- Structured Data: Add schema markup to your pages so search engines can understand your content better and improve your keyword ranking.
- FAQ Sections: Enhance them with generative AI to provide clear answers. These are especially helpful now, as AI Overviews often favour direct, clear answers.
- Voice Search Optimisation: AI Mode mimics how people speak, so aim for conversational, natural phrasing.
Want to take it a step further? Our team at Brighter Websites can help you build out an AI-ready SEO strategy tailored to your business.
What To Do Now: 2025 Check list for the Future of SEO
Not sure where to start with your query? Here’s a practical SEO tune-up list for 2025:
- Track Your Rankings and Traffic – Use tools like Google Search Console and GA4 to monitor what’s changing in your keyword performance.
- Audit Your Content – Focus on helpful, clear, and locally relevant content.
- Update Your Service Pages – Make sure your offerings and locations are up to date.
- Refresh or Add FAQs to enhance the relevance of your content. – Address common client questions directly.
- Stay Visible Locally – Keep your Google Business Profile optimised.
The Future Is AI-Assisted, Not AI-Replaced
In a nutshell: AI Mode and AI Overviews are here to stay. But that doesn’t mean SEO is dead, it means it’s evolving. Your website is still your digital front door, and Google still relies on high-quality, trusted content to power its AI.
By staying informed and adapting your strategy, you’ll not only stay visible, you’ll stand out.
If you’re not sure whether your site is ready for the AI era, or if your rankings have dipped, get in touch with Vanessa and the Brighter Websites team. We’re here to help you future-proof your online presence.
Contact us for a friendly SEO chat or call 0412 401 933
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