Sydney, Australia - July 21, 2025 -- As website traffic declines across multiple industries despite continued keyword rankings, PK SEO, a leading Australian SEO agency, is drawing attention to the root cause: significant changes in how Google delivers search results, and the continued use of outdated SEO practices by many providers.
The Google March 2025 Core Update introduced key shifts including AI Overviews, zero-click searches, and Gemini-powered summaries. These changes mean that users are increasingly receiving answers directly within Google's interface -- reducing the need to click through to external websites, even if those sites appear at the top of search results.
SEO Strategies That No Longer Deliver
Many businesses continue to invest in services that are no longer effective under the current algorithmic model. These include:
- Generic content production focused on keyword stuffing or arbitrary word counts
- Recurring technical audits without actionable outcomes
- Outdated link building strategies using directories or low-value guest posts
- Over-reliance on keyword rank tracking instead of conversion metrics
- Lack of visibility planning for AI-powered search features
What Still Works in 2025
Despite the changes, organic search remains a valuable channel -- particularly when businesses adapt to the new SEO environment. Key strategies that still produce results include:
- Generative Engine Optimization (GEO): Content structured to appear in AI Overviews and Gemini snapshots
- Featured Snippet Targeting: Clear, direct answers to common search queries
- Local SEO Focus: Well-optimized Google Business Profiles and location-specific pages
- Structured Data: Use of schema markup to help Google identify and serve relevant content
- Topical Authority Development: In-depth content around tightly defined subjects instead of scattered, surface-level topics
These approaches help businesses remain discoverable even in a search environment where Google often resolves user intent without a click.
Organic Visibility Is Changing -- Not Disappearing
Traffic reductions of 60% or more have been reported across many sites, but this does not signal the death of SEO. Organic search still plays a crucial role in:
- "Near me" and local-intent searches
- Product-specific searches with high buyer intent
- Complex or niche queries that AI systems cannot yet fully address
- Sectors where the business has earned strong topical authority
The challenge is no longer ranking alone -- it's ranking in the right format, in the right context, and within Google's expanded answer surfaces.
The Need for Updated SEO Evaluation
To keep pace with the evolving nature of search, businesses should evaluate whether their SEO strategy includes:
- Targeting for AI Overviews and Gemini summaries
- Structure optimized for snippet inclusion and voice search
- Content formats that prioritize clarity and user intent
- A roadmap that anticipates further AI integration into search engines
Final Statement
The March 2025 update has confirmed that SEO must evolve to stay effective. Businesses that continue to rely on outdated strategies risk diminishing visibility and missed conversions. Those who adapt -- by aligning with structured, AI-compatible content models -- stand to benefit from increased exposure across Google's new interface.
About PK SEO
PK SEO is an Australian-based digital marketing agency that provides future-proof SEO solutions for businesses seeking long-term growth. The agency focuses on transparency, relevance, and alignment with evolving search engine technologies.
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