How Google’s AI Mode and Social Search Are Changing the Game
The way people find information online is shifting faster than ever before. So if you’re relying on your blog or social media to bring in traffic, you’ve probably noticed things getting a bit tougher lately. That’s because of two major recent changes: Google’s new AI mode and the rise of social search.
Let’s break it down, along with a few lessons for small business owners and creators.
Google’s AI Mode is Stealing Clicks
Google recently rolled out AI mode in search results. Instead of serving a page full of links, it’s now summarising the top answers directly on the results page, with citations sitting off to the side. This follows the AI summaries we’ve already been seeing on half of regular searches.
For website owners and bloggers, this means fewer people are clicking through to your site. The challenge (or even the solution?) Figuring out how to get cited by Google’s AI summaries rather than ignored. That means writing genuinely useful, original content that stands out as trustworthy and well-sourced.
Social Search is Taking Over
It’s not just Google that’s changing. More people are skipping traditional search engines altogether and going straight to platforms like Pinterest, TikTok, and Instagram for answers. Want a recipe? They’ll search TikTok (I know I do!). Looking for outfit inspiration? Instagram for me. This trend is rewriting how content discovery works.
The Simple Truth About Sales
Sales can sound complicated, but it’s really just this:
People buy from you when they know you exist, want what you’re offering, trust you to deliver it, and see you as a unique solution.
This means:
Nail your positioning so you stand out from the crowd
Be great at what you do and prove it with results and reviews.
Share those results as widely as you can.
Everything else is busy work that doesn’t cut through the noise.
The Reality of Growth
Business isn’t a straight line. It’s full of seasons includinggrowth spurts, slow periods, wins, and setbacks. I’ve seen both sides MANY times.
If you’re riding a wave of success, stay grounded because nothing lasts forever. If you’re in a slump, don’t panic. Things change, often sooner than you think.
What This Means for You
Repurpose your content into short-form videos or carousel posts for social platforms as these are search engines now.
Show up consistently, even during the down seasons. Visibility and trust take time.
Ensure your website is pull of trust and proof
Traditional SEO methods are still valid however being mindful of how trends are shifting will be the key to success going forward.
