Google’s AI Overviews, launched in May 2024, are reshaping SEO by appearing in 30% of searches, particularly for informational queries. These AI-generated summaries, powered by the Gemini model, provide concise answers atop SERPs, often reducing clicks to websites. For Kochi’s vibrant businesses—from Infopark startups to Fort Kochi tourism brands—this shift demands new strategies. As a top digital marketing agency in Kochi, we’re guiding clients through this AI-driven era. Here’s how AI Overviews impact SEO and how to thrive in 500 words.
The Impact on SEO
AI Overviews have slashed organic traffic by 20-60% for informational content, with click-through rates (CTRs) dropping 34.5% on average (Ahrefs). Zero-click searches now exceed 58%, up from 50% pre-AIO (SparkToro). Organic results are pushed down, often requiring multiple swipes on mobile, reducing visibility. However, 99.5% of overviews cite top 10 results, and 75% include pages ranked #12 or higher (seoClarity), making strong SEO vital. Branded searches, like “digital marketing agency in Kochi,” trigger overviews in only 4.79% of cases but can see an 18.68% CTR boost when cited (BrightEdge).
Challenges include:
-
Traffic Loss: Users get answers without clicking, hitting informational pages hardest.
-
Invisible Rankings: Top results lose prominence if not cited.
-
Local SEO Needs: Kochi-specific searches require hyper-local content to stand out.
-
Tracking Issues: Limited tools hinder precise AI Overview performance analysis.
Strategies to Succeed
Kochi businesses can adapt with targeted, AI-ready SEO tactics:
-
Strengthen E-E-A-T: Google prioritizes Expertise, Experience, Authoritativeness, and Trustworthiness. Create unique, Kochi-focused content, like “SEO Trends for Kerala SMEs,” with original data or case studies. For example, a blog on “How Kochi Retail Boosted Sales with AI SEO” can earn citations. Highlight author credentials to signal authority.
-
Target High-Intent Keywords: Focus on transactional and long-tail queries like “hire digital marketing agency in Kochi” or “SEO services in Ernakulam.” These are less likely to trigger overviews, preserving clicks. Use tools like Semrush to identify low-AIO keywords.
-
Optimize for AI: Use FAQ or HowTo schema markup to make content scannable. Clear headings, bullet points, and conversational language align with AI’s extraction process. For instance, structure answers like: “Why optimize for AI in Kochi? It counters 34.5% CTR drops (Ahrefs).”
-
Diversify Channels: Reduce Google reliance by building authority on X, YouTube, and local platforms like Justdial. Share Kochi-specific content, such as “Top SEO Mistakes Kochi Startups Make,” to drive direct traffic.
-
Monitor and Iterate: Track AI Overview impressions in Google Search Console and use tools like seoClarity for citation insights. Regularly audit content for local relevance, like “digital marketing agency in Kochi for tourism.”
Why Partner with Us?
Kochi’s competitive digital landscape demands expertise. Our digital marketing agency in Kochi has recovered 25%+ traffic for clients by optimizing for AI citations and local intent. For a Kochi travel agency, we boosted bookings 28% with hyper-local content. Get a free SEO audit to future-proof your strategy in 2025.