SEO – Search Engine Optimization – has been called many things over the years: essential, complicated, even dead. But here’s the truth: SEO is alive, thriving, and more important than ever – even as AI takes center stage.
As someone with years of experience in digital marketing and website design, I’ve seen firsthand how SEO transforms businesses. It’s not just about showing up in search results; it’s about being found by the right people at the right time. And even in today’s AI-driven world, SEO remains the foundation of being visible online.
Let’s dive into why it matters, how it works, and how you can leverage it for your business.
What Is SEO, and Why Does It Matter?
Think of SEO as the GPS for your business online.
Without it, your website is like a hidden gem on a deserted street – valuable, but hard to find.
SEO ensures your website is optimized to rank higher on search engines like Google and Bing, helping your audience find you when they need your products or services. Here’s why it matters:
- Visibility: Ranking higher on search engines increases your chances of being found.
- Credibility: Websites that appear on the first page are seen as more trustworthy.
- Revenue: More visibility leads to more clicks, which leads to more customers and sales.
SEO Isn’t Dead - It’s Evolving
There’s a rumor going around that “SEO is dead” because of AI.
Let’s clear that up: SEO isn’t dead – it’s evolving!
AI tools like ChatGPT, Google’s Gemini, and others rely on optimized web content to generate their responses. In fact, they pull their information from search engines and websites that follow SEO best practices.
If your content isn’t optimized, it won’t show up in traditional search results or AI-driven answers.
AI and SEO Work Together
Think of AI as a new layer of opportunity.
When someone asks an AI tool for recommendations or answers, the tool relies on well-optimized content to provide accurate information.
If you’re not investing in search engine optimization, your business risks being left out of both search engines and AI-generated suggestions.
Why Every Business Owner Needs SEO (Even with AI)
Your Competitors Are Already Doing It
While you’re debating whether SEO is worth your time, your competitors are optimizing their websites and grabbing your potential customers.
Every time someone searches for “best [your industry] near me,” your competitors are showing up – and you’re not.
It’s About Attracting the Right Customers
Forget the idea that SEO is about getting as much traffic as possible. It’s about bringing in people who are actively searching for what you offer.
These are your ideal customers – ready to book an appointment, make a purchase, or call you. Quality traffic beats quantity every time.
SEO Basics to Get You Started
SEO doesn’t have to be overwhelming. Focus on these foundational steps:
- Optimize Your Website: Ensure your site loads quickly and is mobile-friendly (most searches happen on phones).
- Use Strategic Keywords: Think about what your customers are searching for and naturally include those keywords in your website copy, titles, and meta descriptions.
- Leverage Your Google Business Profile: Keep it updated with accurate hours, services, and photos. Encourage happy customers to leave reviews – they’re great for SEO.
- Create High-Quality Content: Write blogs, guides, or FAQs that address your audience’s needs. Useful content builds trust and keeps visitors coming back.
SEO Works While You Sleep
One of the best parts about SEO? It keeps working for you 24/7.
Once you’ve built a strong foundation – optimized your site, created valuable content, and established an online presence – your website continues to attract visitors around the clock.
It’s like having a marketing assistant who never takes a break.
SEO in the AI Era: Why It’s More Important Than Ever
AI is reshaping how people interact with information, but it still relies on SEO-driven content to work. Whether someone is asking Google Assistant, Siri, or ChatGPT for recommendations, the results are pulled from the web.
If you want your business to show up in these results, your content needs to follow SEO best practices. By optimizing for search engines, you’re not just staying relevant – you’re ensuring your business thrives in this new AI-powered landscape.
Ready to Be Found? Let’s Get Started!
SEO is more than just a buzzword - it’s the key to unlocking your business’s potential online.
Whether you’re a café owner, a boutique shop, or a service provider, optimizing your site ensures that people can find you when they need you most.
Not sure where to start? Let’s chat!
About The Author
Daniel Travers is the creative force behind Redideo Studio, a San Diego-based creative agency. With over 20 years of experience in website design and digital media, his artistic background brings a unique perspective to helping clients build engaging and impactful connections with their audiences.
Daniel’s collaborative work includes renowned brands such as iHeartMedia, Disney, Lexus, KIA, and more.
He holds a Bachelor of Fine Arts in Photo New Media from the Kansas City Art Institute, along with an Associate of Applied Science in Graphic Communications from St. Louis Community College.