Ranking in the Age of AI: A
Practical Guide for SEO Teams

Why This Matters

With AI tools like ChatGPT, Google SGE (Search Generative Experience) and Perplexity becoming a part of the search process, user behavior is evolving fast. While Google is still dominant, many users now start their research journey on AI platforms. This means:

  • We must optimize for both traditional search engines and AI tools.
  • Google now rewards content that i’s helpful, human-like, and authoritative — even if AI is used in the process.

1. Create Content That AI Wants to Quote

What This Means:

Google SGE and AI platforms often quote content that’s clear, structured, and answers questions quickly.

Example:

Search query: “Is Invisalign better than braces?”

Bad content: “Invisalign is a modern orthodontic option. It might be better than braces depending on the situation…”

Good content: “Yes, Invisalign is often considered better than braces for mild to moderate teeth alignment issues. It is nearly invisible, removable, and generally more comfortable. However, for complex cases, traditional braces may still be more effective.”

How to Do It:

  • Use question-style subheadings (e.g., “What are the benefits of Invisalign?”)
  • Provide direct answers in the first 2–3 lines
  • Use bullet points and examples

Tools:

  • Surfer SEO
  • Frase.io
  • ChatGPT (for drafts and formatting)
  • Grammarly, Hemingway for readability

2. Build Topical Authority (Not Just Keyword Authority)

What This Means:

Google and AI tools reward complete coverage of a topic, not just random keyword targeting.

Example:

If you’re targeting “Teeth Whitening,” build a content cluster:

  • “What is teeth whitening?”
  • “Is teeth whitening safe?”
  • “Home vs. Professional Whitening”
  • “Teeth whitening for sensitive teeth”

All these should link to one another and to a pillar page like: “The Complete Guide to Teeth Whitening”

How to Do It:

  • Research related questions people ask
  • Group them under core topics (pillars)
  • Interlink blog posts and product pages

Tools:

3. Write for Humans. Format for AI.

What This Means:

AI tools prefer structured content they can parse easily. Humans want clear, engaging copy.

Example:

  • Add FAQs using schema markup
  • Use visual dividers, icons, and headings
  • Keep paragraphs short (2–4 lines)

How to Do It:

  • Add FAQ blocks with schema (Rank Math or Yoast)
  • Use strong headings with keywords
  • Write short, clear paragraphs

Tools:

  • Schema Markup Generator (technicalseo.com)
  • Rank Math / Yoast

4. Repurpose Content Across Formats

What This Means:

AI and users consume content in multiple formats. One blog = one reel + one infographic + one email.

Example:

A blog titled: “5 Common Invisalign Myths” can be turned into:

  • A Reel for Instagram
  • A carousel for LinkedIn
  • An infographic for Pinterest
  • A short YouTube explainer

How to Do It:

  • Use AI tools to create content drafts for each platform
  • Repurpose using a design tool

Tools:

  • Canva (design)
  • Lumen5 / Pictory (video from text)
  • ChatGPT (caption + hook writing)

5. Optimize for EEAT (Experience, Expertise, Authority, Trust)

What This Means:

Google looks for trustworthy content created by real experts or brands.

Example:

Good Signals:

  • Real author bio with credentials
  • Testimonials or reviews
  • Links to case studies
  • Media mentions or PR

Poor Signals:

  • No author listed
  • Generic content without expert input

How to Do It:

  • Always add expert bios to your blog posts
  • Showcase results and testimonials
  • Add citations from credible sources
  • Use HTTPS, clear branding, and privacy policies

Tools:

  • Google Search Console (check pages with high impressions but low clicks — these may lack EEAT)
  • HARO / Featured for PR
  • LinkedIn + Medium for author profiles

6. Monitor What AI Says About You

What This Means:

Users may ask ChatGPT, Gemini, or Perplexity about your brand. Make sure these tools show you positively.

How to Do It:

  • Keep your website updated
  • Make sure social bios and GMB listings are consistent
  • Try asking ChatGPT/Perplexity what it knows about your brand

Final Note for SEO Teams

AI hasn’t replaced SEO — it’s raised the bar.

✔️ Write for people, format for AI
✔️ Build deep topic coverage, not just blog titles
✔️ Use tools smartly — but add real value from human insight

Keep learning. Keep adapting. SEO is no longer just about ranking — it’s about being the best answer.

Get in touch with the strategic brains of Webanatomy team to ace your SEO game.