How to Modernize Your SEO Strategy for both Google and AI
Search has changed again. With the explosion of AI tools like ChatGPT, Google’s AI Overviews, Microsoft Copilot, and Gemini, business owners are asking the big question: is SEO still relevant in 2025?
At Soud Marketing, we believe the answer is a resounding yes. In fact, SEO isn’t just alive—it’s evolving in exciting ways. In this article, we’ll share what’s working right now, how AI is reshaping search, and what steps you can take to keep your business visible in an AI-first world.
AI and the “Resurgence” of SEO
When ChatGPT first burst onto the scene, it felt like the end of traditional search. But instead of killing SEO, it actually highlighted why search optimization matters more than ever.
AI tools are pulling answers from across the web—and if your site doesn’t have helpful, trustworthy content, you won’t show up. Google is still the top player for market share, but large language models (LLMs) like ChatGPT and Gemini are now part of the buyer’s journey.
Think of it this way:
- High-intent searches (like finding a local plumber or pediatrician) are still happening on Google.
- Top-of-funnel research (like exploring an industry topic) often starts in AI chat tools.
Both matter. And both rely on quality content.
Why Google Still Has the Edge
For local businesses, Google maintains a clear advantage. Why? Because of tools like the Google Business Profile (GBP).
When someone searches for a nearby service provider, Google can pull in:
- Verified business details
- Reviews and star ratings
- Photos and videos
- Events and offers
AI tools don’t have that level of real-time, business-fed information—at least not yet. That makes your Google Business Profile one of the most important (and free!) assets you can optimize right now.
How SEO Has Changed
The fundamentals of SEO—technical site health, page speed, schema markup—are still essential. But the biggest shifts we’re seeing come down to content and authority.
- From Keywords to Conversations
People no longer search “plumber near me.” Instead, they type or say things like:
- “Plumber in Jacksonville that offers financing”
- “Pediatrician in Jacksonville Beach who accepts same-day appointments”
Your website needs to reflect these qualifiers and conversational searches to stay relevant.
- Quality Over Quantity
Keyword stuffing and thin content no longer cut it. Search engines and AI tools reward content that:
- Explains what you do clearly
- Answers real customer questions
- Provides depth and context
- Backlinks → Mentions
It’s no longer about collecting as many backlinks as possible. Today, quality mentions on social media, podcasts, and trusted websites build authority—even without a direct link.
Content Is Still King, But Smarter
If there’s one takeaway, it’s this: quality content is non-negotiable. That means:
- Creating content that mirrors customer questions
- Showcasing what makes your business different
- Consistently publishing fresh, informative resources
And don’t overlook video. With YouTube owned by Google, we expect video to weigh even more heavily in rankings and visibility in the near future.
Action Steps for Businesses
Here’s what you can do right now to future-proof your visibility:
- Optimize Your Google Business Profile
- Update your hours, services, and contact info
- Add photos and videos (even iPhone-quality works!)
- Post updates weekly—events, offers, or service highlights
- Audit Your Website Content
- Can a friend describe what you do after reading your site?
- Are you answering specific questions customers might ask?
- Do you showcase differentiators like financing, same-day service, or specialties?
- Invest in Consistency
- Build a long-term content strategy
- Repurpose content across platforms (blogs, social, video, email)
- Treat SEO and AI visibility as an ongoing process—not a one-time fix
SEO isn’t dead—it’s transforming. As AI continues to evolve, businesses that focus on helpful content, strong local presence, and consistent visibility will win.
At Soud Marketing, we help businesses stay ahead of these shifts by creating strategies that work across Google and AI tools like ChatGPT.
Want to know how your business can thrive in the AI-powered search era? Get in touch with us today!