Jul 12, 2026 | AI, ChatGPT
Quick Answer
Google does not assign a single “trust score” to websites, but it uses hundreds of signals to determine whether a website appears trustworthy, authoritative, and helpful. Factors such as quality content, backlinks, reviews, topical authority, technical SEO, user experience, and demonstrated expertise can all influence how Google evaluates a website.
Businesses that consistently build trust are often better positioned to rank higher, attract more visitors, and earn visibility in both traditional and AI-powered search experiences.
Why Website Trust Matters
One of the biggest questions I hear from business owners is:
“Why does my competitor rank above me when my services are better?”
The answer often comes down to trust.
Google’s goal is to provide users with the most reliable answers possible.
When multiple websites offer similar services, Google often favors the one that appears more authoritative and trustworthy.
Trust isn’t built overnight.
It is earned through consistent signals that help Google understand:
- Who you are
- What you do
- Why you’re qualified
- Whether users find your content valuable
1. Helpful, High-Quality Content
Content remains one of the strongest trust signals.
Google wants to recommend websites that genuinely help users solve problems.
Helpful content typically:
✔ Answers questions clearly
✔ Demonstrates expertise
✔ Covers topics thoroughly
✔ Provides unique insights
✔ Addresses search intent
Businesses that consistently publish useful content often build stronger authority over time.
2. Topical Authority
Google is becoming increasingly focused on topical authority.
Instead of publishing random content on unrelated subjects, successful websites often create depth around a specific area of expertise.
For example, an SEO consultant may cover:
- Local SEO
- Technical SEO
- AI SEO
- Google Business Profiles
- Website authority
- SEO case studies
Over time, Google begins associating the website with those topics.
3. Quality Backlinks
Backlinks remain one of the most important trust signals.
When reputable websites link to your content, Google views those links as indicators of credibility.
Not all links are equal.
A handful of relevant, authoritative backlinks can often provide more value than hundreds of low-quality links.
Quality matters more than quantity.
4. Reviews and Reputation
Trust extends beyond your website.
Google also looks at signals that indicate real-world credibility.
Examples include:
- Google reviews
- Industry reviews
- Testimonials
- Customer feedback
- Business reputation
Positive reviews help both users and search engines feel more confident in your business.
5. Technical SEO
Even great content can struggle if a website has technical problems.
Technical SEO helps Google crawl, index, and understand your content.
Important technical factors include:
- Mobile friendliness
- Fast page speed
- Secure HTTPS connections
- Internal linking
- Proper indexing
- Clean site structure
Technical SEO creates a stronger foundation for trust.
6. Demonstrated Expertise
Google increasingly values content created by people with real experience.
This is particularly important in competitive industries.
Businesses can demonstrate expertise through:
- Case studies
- Original research
- Real-world examples
- Industry insights
- Author bios
The more evidence of genuine expertise, the stronger the trust signal.
7. Brand Mentions
Google’s understanding of a business extends beyond backlinks.
Brand mentions across the internet can help reinforce credibility.
These may include:
- News articles
- Press releases
- Industry directories
- Social media discussions
- Local citations
The more consistently your business appears across trusted platforms, the stronger your online presence becomes.
8. Strong User Experience
Google wants users to have positive experiences.
Factors that contribute to user experience include:
- Easy navigation
- Clear service pages
- Fast loading times
- Helpful information
- Mobile usability
A website that is easy to use often performs better than one that creates frustration.
How AI Search Is Changing Trust
As AI-powered search continues evolving, trust is becoming even more important.
Platforms such as:
- Google AI Overviews
- ChatGPT
- Gemini
- Microsoft Copilot
need confidence in the information they reference.
Many of the same trust signals that help websites rank in Google Search are also helping businesses earn visibility in AI-powered search experiences.
Focus on Building Trust, Not Chasing Algorithms
Business owners often look for shortcuts.
The reality is that trust is built over time.
Rather than chasing algorithm updates, focus on:
✔ Helpful content
✔ Technical SEO
✔ Authority building
✔ Reviews
✔ Expertise
✔ User experience
These are the foundations that continue helping businesses succeed regardless of how search evolves.
If you’re looking for an experienced SEO Company San Diego to help improve your website’s authority, visibility, and long-term growth, Jen Ruhman SEO can help develop a strategy tailored to your business goals.
FAQs
Does Google have a website trust score?
Google has never confirmed a single trust score, but it uses many signals to evaluate credibility, expertise, and authority.
Do backlinks still help build trust?
Yes. Quality backlinks remain one of the strongest authority signals in SEO.
What is topical authority?
Topical authority refers to how much expertise and depth a website demonstrates on a specific subject.
Do reviews help SEO?
Yes. Reviews can support local SEO, improve trust, and influence user behavior.
Can AI search platforms use trust signals?
Yes. AI-powered search experiences often rely on many of the same authority and trust signals that traditional search engines use.
Jul 8, 2026 | AI, ChatGPT

Quick Answer
Yes. ChatGPT can send traffic to websites when it references, recommends, or links to online content while answering user questions. As AI-powered search continues growing, businesses are beginning to see referral traffic from ChatGPT, Microsoft Copilot, Perplexity, Gemini, and other AI platforms.
While AI referral traffic is still relatively small compared to Google Search, it is becoming an increasingly important visibility channel for businesses investing in SEO, authority building, and helpful content.
AI Search Is Creating a New Source of Website Traffic
For years, most businesses focused primarily on Google Search.
The goal was simple:
Rank higher in search results and attract more website visitors.
Today, users are increasingly turning to AI-powered platforms such as:
- ChatGPT
- Google AI Overviews
- Gemini
- Microsoft Copilot
- Perplexity
Instead of clicking through multiple search results, users can ask detailed questions and receive immediate answers.
This shift has created a new question:
Can these platforms actually send traffic back to websites?
The answer is yes.
Businesses Are Already Seeing AI Referral Traffic
Many website owners have begun noticing referral traffic from AI platforms appearing inside Google Analytics.
Common referral sources include:
- chatgpt.com
- copilot.microsoft.com
- perplexity.ai
- gemini.google.com
While the volume is often smaller than Google Search traffic, the visitors can be highly qualified because they are actively researching a topic and looking for solutions.
In some cases, AI referrals may represent users who would never have discovered your business through traditional search alone.
Why Some Websites Get Referenced More Often
One of the biggest misconceptions is that AI systems randomly choose websites.
In reality, several factors often influence which sources are referenced.
Helpful Content
AI systems tend to favor content that clearly answers questions.
Strong Topical Authority
Websites that demonstrate expertise across a subject area often have a better chance of being referenced.
Trust Signals
Authority matters.
Trust signals may include:
- Backlinks
- Reviews
- Brand mentions
- Industry citations
- Author expertise
Clear Structure
Well-organized content is easier for AI systems to understand and reference.
What Kind of Content Performs Well in AI Search?
Content that tends to perform well often includes:
Detailed Answers
Directly answering user questions.
Original Insights
Sharing real-world expertise and experience.
Case Studies
Demonstrating actual results.
Comparison Content
Helping users evaluate options.
Educational Content
Teaching users how something works.
The goal is not to write for AI.
The goal is to create content that genuinely helps people.
Why SEO Still Matters
Some people assume AI search will replace SEO.
I don’t believe that’s happening.
Instead, AI is building on many of the same signals search engines have used for years.
Those signals include:
- Authority
- Expertise
- Trust
- Technical SEO
- Helpful content
- User experience
Businesses that already have strong SEO foundations are often in the best position to benefit from AI-driven visibility.
How Businesses Can Improve Their AI Visibility
If you want to improve the chances of being referenced by AI systems, focus on:
Building Topical Authority
Cover topics related to your expertise in depth.
Publishing Helpful Content
Answer questions your customers actually ask.
Strengthening Technical SEO
Make your website easy to crawl and understand.
Earning Quality Backlinks
Authority still matters.
Sharing Real Experience
Original insights often stand out more than generic content.
AI Search Is an Opportunity, Not a Threat
Many business owners are worried about AI changing search.
I view it differently.
AI is creating additional opportunities for businesses that consistently demonstrate expertise and provide valuable information.
Businesses that invest in quality content, authority building, and long-term SEO strategies are often best positioned to benefit from both traditional search and AI-powered search experiences.
The fundamentals continue to matter.
The platforms are simply evolving.
If you’re looking for an experienced SEO Company San Diego to help improve visibility across Google Search, Google AI Overviews, ChatGPT, Gemini, and other AI-powered search experiences, contact Jen Ruhman SEO to learn more.
FAQs
Can ChatGPT send visitors to my website?
Yes. ChatGPT can send referral traffic to websites when it references or links to content while answering user questions.
How do I track ChatGPT traffic?
You can monitor referral traffic inside Google Analytics and look for sources such as chatgpt.com and other AI-related domains.
Is AI traffic replacing Google traffic?
Not currently. Google remains the dominant traffic source for most businesses, but AI referral traffic is growing.
What types of websites get cited by AI?
Websites that demonstrate expertise, authority, trust, and provide helpful content are often more likely to be referenced.
Does SEO help with AI visibility?
Yes. Strong SEO foundations often improve visibility across both traditional search engines and AI-powered search platforms.
Jul 17, 2025 | AI, ChatGPT, SEO Tips

Hi, I’m Jen Ruhman, a San Diego SEO expert who helps local businesses stay ahead of Google’s changes. One thing I’ve noticed in 2025? There are a lot of myths floating around about AI SEO. I hear them all the time during my consultations. Many San Diego business owners are confused about what AI SEO actually is — and it’s costing them traffic and leads.
In this blog, I’ll clear up the biggest myths about AI SEO, explain what’s actually working, and show you how to get ahead with real strategies that bring results.
Myth #1: “AI SEO Is Just a Buzzword”
The Reality:
AI SEO is very real and it’s here to stay. Google’s new AI Overviews (SGE) are changing the way search results look. AI tools now play a major role in search rankings — from how Google pulls answers to how content is ranked. I use AI every day to help San Diego businesses improve their rankings faster than with traditional methods alone.
What Works:
Combining AI-powered insights with human strategy. I use tools like Surfer SEO and Frase.io to speed up research, then apply my personal expertise to customize your SEO strategy. AI SEO isn’t hype — it’s a tool to make smarter decisions.
Related post: Why AI Overviews Are Actually Good News for Smart Local SEO in San Diego
Myth #2: “AI SEO Will Replace Traditional SEO Completely”
The Reality:
I get it — the term “AI” sounds like robots will do everything. But in SEO, it’s not about replacing proven strategies like good content, backlinks, and local SEO. It’s about making them stronger and faster.
What Works:
AI helps me identify opportunities and optimize content, but traditional SEO foundations are still crucial. Things like optimizing your Google Business Profile and getting good reviews are just as important as ever.
Myth #3: “AI SEO Is Only for Big Corporations”
The Reality:
This one drives me crazy because I work mainly with small businesses in San Diego — med spas, dentists, plumbers, realtors. AI SEO works wonders for local businesses! You don’t need a huge budget to benefit.
What Works:
AI helps small businesses compete by finding hyperlocal keywords and creating content that targets your neighborhood. I’ve helped local shops in places like Hillcrest, Chula Vista, and La Mesa get featured in AI Overviews without spending big corporate dollars.
Related post: How Google’s AI Overviews Are Changing Local SEO
Myth #4: “AI SEO Means You Can Just Auto-Generate Content”
The Reality:
This is one of the fastest ways to hurt your rankings. Google’s algorithms can easily tell low-quality, AI-generated content from helpful human-written content. I’ve seen websites tank in rankings after pumping out unedited AI content.
What Works:
Smart use of AI. I use AI to suggest outlines, keywords, and FAQs, but every piece of content I create for my clients is human-reviewed, edited, and optimized to meet Google’s E-E-A-T standards (Experience, Expertise, Authoritativeness, Trustworthiness).
Myth #5: “AI SEO Results Take Just a Few Days”
The Reality:
AI tools make SEO faster, but it’s not instant. Good SEO — AI or not — takes time to build authority, earn trust, and climb rankings. Anyone promising overnight success is selling snake oil.
What Works:
What I’ve seen with my San Diego clients is faster progress than old-school SEO, but realistic timeframes. Many of my clients see noticeable improvements within 2-3 months, especially in AI Overviews and local search.
Related post: AI SEO vs Traditional SEO
Quick Recap: What San Diego Business Owners Should Actually Focus On
- Use AI to help with research and content optimization.
- Keep creating quality, helpful content with human input.
- Optimize for local search with neighborhood-specific keywords.
- Update your Google Business Profile regularly.
- Be patient but proactive — AI can help you adapt faster.
Want Help Cutting Through the SEO Myths?
If you’ve been confused by SEO advice online, you’re not alone. I make it simple. You’ll work directly with me, Jen, and I’ll show you what actually works to grow your business in 2025 using AI SEO — without the fluff or false promises.
Call or text me today at (619) 719-1315 and let’s see how we can boost your San Diego business together.
— Jen Ruhman Your local San Diego SEO company | AI SEO Specialist Call/text: (619) 719-1315
Jul 17, 2025 | AI, ChatGPT, SEO Tips

Hi there, I’m Jen Ruhman, your local SEO expert based right here in San Diego. I’ve been helping local businesses rank on Google for years, and I’ve seen a lot of changes in how search engines work. Lately, the biggest change I’m seeing is the rise of SEO for AI. If you’re a business owner wondering what this means for you in 2025, you’re in the right place.
In this blog, I’ll break down the difference between AI SEO and traditional SEO in a simple, easy-to-understand way. I’ll also share my personal tips for how San Diego businesses can get ahead with AI-powered strategies.
Related post: Will AI Replace SEO?
What Is Traditional SEO?
Traditional SEO is what we’ve been using for years to help businesses rank on Google. It focuses on things like:
- Doing keyword research to find what people search for.
- Writing high-quality content that uses those keywords.
- Building backlinks from other websites to show Google you’re trustworthy.
- Fixing technical problems on your website like slow page speed or broken links.
I’ve helped many local businesses use traditional SEO to get more traffic, phone calls, and customers. And yes — traditional SEO still works! But in 2025, it’s not enough on its own.
What Is AI SEO?
AI SEO is the next step in the evolution of search. It uses artificial intelligence tools to:
- Analyze massive amounts of data faster than any human.
- Find deeper keyword insights, including voice search and long-tail queries.
- Optimize content to rank in Google’s new AI Overviews (SGE).
- Predict future trends based on real-time data.
I use AI-powered tools every day to make SEO easier and more effective for my clients. AI helps me see what’s working faster, so we can make quick adjustments and stay ahead of your competition.
Related post: The Big Differences: AI SEO vs Traditional SEO
1. Speed of Insights
With traditional SEO, we’d wait months to see what works. With AI SEO, I can analyze performance in real time and make changes immediately. This is a game changer for local businesses that need fast results.
2. Smarter Keyword Targeting
Traditional keyword research looks at volume and competition. AI SEO digs deeper, helping me understand search intent and find hidden opportunities — especially for hyperlocal terms like “best vegan bakery North Park San Diego.”
3. Optimizing for Google’s AI Overviews
One of the biggest reasons I recommend AI SEO now is because of Google’s AI Overviews. These summaries show up at the top of search results. Traditional SEO doesn’t focus on this, but AI SEO is designed to help your business get featured there.
4. Content Creation Gets Smarter
I still write and edit every piece of content for my clients, but AI helps by creating outlines, suggesting related topics, and spotting content gaps. This means faster, more complete content that Google (and customers) love.
5. Predictive SEO
Traditional SEO is reactive — you make changes after rankings drop. AI SEO is proactive. AI tools help predict shifts in search trends and algorithm updates, so we can adjust your strategy before your rankings are affected.

Related post: Why People Still Click for Local Services (Even with AI)
Do San Diego Businesses Still Need Traditional SEO?
Absolutely! AI SEO isn’t replacing traditional SEO — it’s enhancing it. You still need:
- A fast, mobile-friendly website.
- Great on-page SEO with title tags and meta descriptions.
- Local SEO with an optimized Google Business Profile.
- Reviews, backlinks, and solid online reputation.
But adding AI SEO to your strategy gives you an edge, especially in competitive industries like med spas, real estate, law firms, and restaurants right here in San Diego.
Real-Life Example From My Clients
One of my clients, a local dog groomer in Pacific Beach, was stuck on page 2 of Google for months. Once I added AI SEO tools to their strategy, we updated their content based on AI suggestions, targeted better long-tail keywords, and optimized their site for AI Overviews. Within two months, they were ranking on the first page and showing up in AI summaries for terms like “best dog groomer in Pacific Beach.”
Is AI SEO More Expensive?
Many business owners ask me this. The good news is — not necessarily. Because AI speeds up parts of the process, I can offer more affordable packages while still delivering excellent results. Plus, you get faster insights and better targeting, so your investment pays off quicker.
Should You Switch to AI SEO?
If you’re serious about staying visible in Google in 2025 and beyond, you need AI SEO in your toolkit. The San Diego businesses I work with are seeing real results — more calls, more clicks, and better rankings.
My advice? Don’t ditch traditional SEO, but upgrade it with AI strategies. And if you’re feeling overwhelmed, I’m here to help.
Let’s Future-Proof Your San Diego Business
At Jen Ruhman SEO, I combine the best of both worlds — proven traditional SEO methods and cutting-edge AI SEO techniques. You get hands-on support from me, Jen, with the power of AI working in the background to give your business the best shot at success.
Want to chat about how this can work for you? Call or text me directly at (619) 719-1315. Let’s get your business ready for the future of search!
— Jen Ruhman San Diego AI SEO Expert Call/text me: (619) 719-1315
Jul 17, 2025 | AI, ChatGPT, SEO Tips

By Jen Ruhman, Owner of Jen Ruhman SEO
Quick Answer: What Do Google AI Overviews Mean for Local SEO?
Google AI Overviews are changing the way people find and evaluate information in Google Search.
Instead of always clicking through a traditional list of search results, users may see an AI-generated response that summarizes information and includes links to supporting sources.
For San Diego businesses, this does not mean traditional SEO is disappearing.
It means businesses need to think beyond simply ranking a webpage.
Your website should make it easy for Google to understand:
- who your business is
- what services you provide
- where you provide them
- which topics you have expertise in
- and why your business and content should be trusted
The fundamentals of SEO still matter. But clarity, authority, helpful content, local relevance, and a well-structured website are becoming increasingly important as Google Search evolves.
I’m Jen Ruhman, owner of a San Diego SEO company, and this is one of the biggest changes I’m watching for my own website and my clients.
What Are Google AI Overviews?
Google AI Overviews are AI-generated responses that can appear within Google Search results.
Rather than simply giving users a list of webpages, Google can generate an overview of a topic and provide links to sources where users can learn more.
This changes the search experience.
Someone searching for a question may get useful information directly from Google before visiting a website.
But that does not make websites irrelevant.
Google still needs information from the web to understand topics and connect users with useful sources.
For business owners, I think the more useful question is no longer:
“How do I get the #1 organic position?”
It is also:
“How do I make my business one of the sources Google understands and trusts around this topic?”
That is a much better way to think about SEO as AI becomes a bigger part of search.
How Are AI Overviews Changing SEO?
I don’t believe AI Overviews have created an entirely separate form of SEO.
Instead, they are changing where and how search visibility can happen.
Traditional organic rankings still matter. Google Maps still matters. Your Google Business Profile still matters. Service pages, backlinks, reviews, technical SEO, and useful content still matter.
But businesses now have additional opportunities to be discovered through AI-generated search experiences.
That means I increasingly think about SEO as search visibility, rather than just rankings.
Your potential customer might discover your business through:
- a traditional Google result
- Google Maps
- an AI Overview
- a featured snippet
- a local result
- a branded search
- or another AI-powered search experience
The goal is to build a business that is consistently understandable and discoverable across those different environments.
AI Overviews May Change Which Searches Generate Clicks
One of the biggest changes is that some informational searches may no longer require an immediate website visit.
If someone searches:
“What is local SEO?”
Google may be able to answer much of that question directly in the search results.
But compare that with:
“SEO company San Diego”
That person isn’t simply looking for a definition.
They’re potentially evaluating a company.
That distinction is important.
I’ve written before about why more website traffic isn’t necessarily better.
I’d rather have the right people discover a business than chase thousands of low-intent informational visits that never become customers.
AI Overviews make that distinction even more important.
Local SEO Is Still Extremely Important
If you own a local business, I would not abandon your local SEO strategy because of AI.
People still need businesses in the real world.
Someone may need:
- a dentist in La Mesa
- a med spa in Point Loma
- an attorney in Downtown San Diego
- an auto repair shop in Santee
- a financial advisor in San Diego
- or a hair restoration specialist near them
AI can help someone research those services, but the person still eventually needs to choose a business.
That’s why your local search presence matters.
Your website, Google Business Profile, reviews, location information, service pages, and reputation all contribute to the larger picture of your business online.
AI Search Makes Business Clarity More Important
One of the biggest things I focus on with SEO clients is clarity.
Google shouldn’t have to guess what your business does.
A visitor shouldn’t have to guess either.
When I review a local business website, I want it to be very clear:
Who are you?
What do you do?
Where do you provide the service?
Who do you serve?
What makes you qualified?
How are the pages on your website related?
This was important before AI Overviews.
It’s even more important now.
Strong Service Pages Still Matter
I would not respond to AI search by publishing hundreds of new AI-focused blog posts.
For most local businesses, I’d first make sure their core service pages are excellent.
If you’re a San Diego business offering several services, each important service should generally have a page that clearly explains:
- what the service is
- who it’s for
- the problem it solves
- where it’s available
- what someone should expect
- why they should consider your business
- and what they should do next
Supporting articles can then answer related questions and internally link back to those important service pages.
This creates a much clearer website structure than publishing disconnected articles simply because a keyword has search volume.
Topical Authority Becomes More Valuable
Another important part of this strategy is topical authority.
If you want Google to understand that you’re knowledgeable about a subject, one page usually isn’t the entire story.
Your website should demonstrate meaningful depth around the services and topics that actually matter to your business.
For example, an SEO website might have resources covering:
- local SEO
- Google Business Profiles
- keyword research
- technical SEO
- content strategy
- internal linking
- AI search
- Google AI Overviews
Those subjects are connected.
When they’re organized correctly and internally linked, they help create a much clearer picture of the site’s overall expertise.
I explain this concept further in my guide to topical authority.
E-E-A-T Still Matters
AI did not suddenly make experience and credibility irrelevant.
If anything, I think demonstrating real experience has become even more valuable as producing generic content has become easier.
Google uses the concept of E-E-A-T:
- Experience
- Expertise
- Authoritativeness
- Trustworthiness
For a local business, that can be reflected through things such as:
- detailed service information
- accurate author information
- real examples
- original photos
- customer reviews
- testimonials
- case studies
- professional credentials where applicable
- clear contact and business information
- useful content based on actual experience
I have a complete explanation of E-E-A-T and SEO if you want to understand how I approach this.
Your Google Business Profile Still Matters
For a local San Diego business, I would absolutely continue investing time in your Google Business Profile.
Keep your information accurate.
Make sure your primary category makes sense.
Add your actual services.
Upload good photos.
Earn legitimate customer reviews.
Respond to reviews.
Keep your website and business information consistent.
AI Overviews may change parts of Google Search, but local businesses still need strong local search signals.
I’ve put together a separate guide explaining how to rank higher in Google Maps.
Internal Linking Helps Google Understand Your Website
Internal linking is another area I consider especially important.
Think of your website as a network of information rather than a collection of unrelated URLs.
Your pages should connect naturally.
For example, this article discusses AI Overviews.
It makes sense for me to connect it to my information about AI SEO, topical authority, E-E-A-T and other related SEO concepts.
Those connections help visitors discover additional information.
They also help search engines crawl your website and understand relationships between pages.
That’s one reason I’ve been very deliberate about consolidating overlapping content rather than continuing to create multiple articles that essentially answer the same question.
More pages aren’t automatically better. Better-organized pages usually are.
Does Schema Help With Google AI Overviews?
Schema markup can help search engines understand specific information on a webpage by providing structured, machine-readable data.
Depending on the page, appropriate structured data might identify things such as:
- an organization
- a local business
- an article
- a person
- a product
- an event
- or other supported information
However, I would not tell a business owner that adding schema will make them appear in an AI Overview.
It doesn’t work that way.
Schema is one part of helping search engines understand a website. It should accurately represent information that actually exists on the page.
It is a supporting SEO tool — not an AI Overview shortcut.
Do You Need “AI SEO” Now?
This is where there’s a lot of unnecessary confusion.
You’ll hear terms such as:
AI SEO.
AEO.
GEO.
LLM optimization.
Answer engine optimization.
Some of these terms can be useful for describing how search is evolving, but I don’t believe San Diego business owners need to throw away everything they know about SEO and start over.
In fact, Google’s guidance continues to emphasize many familiar fundamentals.
Create useful content.
Make your website accessible to search engines.
Give visitors a good page experience.
Make important information easy to find.
Build a business and website worthy of trust.
I’ve covered this in more detail in what Google’s AI optimization guidance means for small businesses.
What About ChatGPT and Other AI Search Platforms?
Google isn’t the only place where people are searching anymore.
Potential customers can also ask questions in ChatGPT, Gemini, Perplexity and other AI-powered tools.
That’s one reason I don’t think businesses should become obsessed with optimizing for one individual AI feature.
The bigger opportunity is creating a strong digital presence that clearly establishes:
who you are, what you do, where you operate, and what you know.
That’s the approach behind my AI SEO services in San Diego.
What Should San Diego Businesses Do About AI Overviews?
If you’re a local business owner, I wouldn’t panic and completely change your SEO strategy.
I’d strengthen the foundation.
Start by looking at whether:
- Your primary services have strong dedicated pages.
- Your website clearly communicates your San Diego or service-area relevance.
- Your Google Business Profile is accurate and complete.
- Your content answers questions potential customers actually ask.
- Related pages are internally linked logically.
- Your website demonstrates genuine experience and expertise.
- Your business has strong reviews and other trust signals.
- Your website is technically accessible and easy to navigate.
- You’re consolidating overlapping content instead of creating unnecessary competing pages.
- You’re measuring leads and business results — not just traffic.
If you want the implementation side of this, I’ve created a separate Google AI Overview optimization checklist specifically for that purpose:
How to Get Your San Diego Business Featured in Google AI Overviews: 2026 Checklist
That’s where I go deeper into what you can actually work on page by page.
AI Overviews Don’t Mean SEO Is Dead
I’ve heard versions of this argument every time Google makes a significant change.
Featured snippets didn’t kill SEO.
Google Maps didn’t kill SEO.
Zero-click searches didn’t kill SEO.
AI isn’t eliminating the need for businesses to be discoverable.
It’s changing how discovery happens.
People still need products.
They still need local services.
They still compare businesses.
They still look at websites.
They still read reviews.
And they still need a way to decide who they trust enough to contact.
I’ve also addressed the larger question in Will AI Replace SEO?.
My Approach to AI SEO for San Diego Businesses
My approach isn’t to chase every new acronym or AI optimization trick.
I focus on building the strongest search presence possible.
That means combining:
- traditional SEO
- local SEO
- useful content
- strong service pages
- technical SEO
- internal linking
- topical authority
- Google Business Profile optimization
- reputation and trust signals
- and an understanding of how AI is changing search behavior
The technology will continue changing.
A strong business with a clear, authoritative and technically sound web presence is much better positioned to adapt when it does.
Final Thoughts: AI Overviews Are Changing SEO, Not Replacing It
Google AI Overviews are an important evolution in search.
They can change how people consume information, which websites receive clicks, and where businesses can earn visibility.
But I wouldn’t build an entire SEO strategy around trying to “game” AI Overviews.
I’d build a website Google can crawl, people can trust, and search systems can clearly understand.
For San Diego businesses, that means continuing to invest in the fundamentals while adapting your content and website structure to the way search is evolving.
That’s a much more durable strategy than chasing the latest SEO trick.
If you’re unsure whether your website is prepared for AI-driven search, I can take a look at what you’re currently doing and identify where the biggest opportunities are.
Get a free SEO analysis from Jen Ruhman
Or call/text me directly at (619) 719-1315.
— Jen Ruhman
San Diego SEO Expert
FAQs
What are Google AI Overviews?
Google AI Overviews are AI-generated responses that can appear within Google Search results. They summarize information related to a search and may include links to webpages that provide additional information.
Are Google AI Overviews replacing traditional SEO?
No. Traditional SEO fundamentals such as crawlability, useful content, site structure, authority, local relevance and user experience still matter. AI Overviews create another way information can be presented within search.
Can a local San Diego business appear in Google AI Overviews?
Local businesses can be included as sources or otherwise gain visibility within AI-powered search experiences when their content is relevant to the query. There is no guaranteed method for earning inclusion.
Does schema markup help a business appear in AI Overviews?
Schema helps search engines understand structured information on a website, but adding schema does not guarantee inclusion in Google AI Overviews.
Is local SEO still important because of AI Overviews?
Yes. People still use Google to find nearby businesses and services. Strong service pages, accurate business information, reviews, Google Business Profile optimization and geographic relevance remain important parts of local search visibility.
How should I optimize my website for Google AI Overviews?
Start with solid SEO fundamentals. Create useful original content, clearly explain your services, demonstrate experience, improve internal linking, maintain technically accessible pages and make your business information easy to understand. For the tactical steps, use my Google AI Overview optimization checklist.
Are AI Overviews reducing website traffic?
AI-generated answers can satisfy some informational searches without requiring an immediate click. The impact varies by query, which is one reason businesses should measure qualified traffic, leads and conversions rather than judging SEO success only by total visits.
May 29, 2025 | AI, ChatGPT, SEO Tips

Why People Still Click for Local Services (Even with AI)
By Jen Ruhman, Owner of Jen Ruhman SEO in San Diego
Call/Text Me: (619) 719-1315
Let’s Be Real – AI Is Amazing, But It’s Not Replacing Trust
AI is changing the game in so many ways, and yes, it’s incredibly helpful. I use AI tools every day in my SEO work—whether it’s speeding up content outlines or helping with technical analysis. But when it comes to local services—like finding the best plumber, dog trainer, real estate agent, or yes, an SEO expert in San Diego—people still click. They still want a human on the other side.
Why? Because local is personal. And when it’s personal, trust matters more than technology.
People Want Real, Local Human Help – Not Just a Robot’s Recommendation
The San Diego Example
As someone running an SEO business in San Diego, I’ve seen this firsthand. Clients tell me, “I found you on Google, but I clicked because you’re actually in San Diego. You get it here.” That local connection builds comfort—and comfort builds clicks.
People want someone they can call, someone who knows the neighborhoods, and yes, someone who can meet them for coffee if needed. AI can’t do that.
Clicks Come from Clarity and Credibility
When someone Googles “best SEO expert in San Diego,” they aren’t just looking for a list. They want to see reviews, a real face, real stories, and signs that you’re legit.
That’s Why I Keep My Site Human
I’ve filled my website with client testimonials, photos of me, and simple ways to reach out. I answer my own phone. I text clients. That’s what helps me stand out. Local SEO still works because people want that personal touch—and they click when they see it.
AI Doesn’t Know What It’s Like to Own a Business in Your City
The Local Vibe Matters
I help a lot of small businesses—from hair salons to HVAC companies—rank higher on Google. The reason my clients succeed is because we don’t just use generic content. We write for the city. We know what’s trending in San Diego, what people care about, and what local slang or tone works.
If AI writes your website for a plumber in Clairemont, it might miss how different that customer is from someone searching in La Jolla. That nuance matters, and real local SEO takes that into account.
Related post: AI SEO vs Traditional SEO
People Don’t Just Want “The Best”—They Want “The Best Nearby”
Let’s talk about intent. When someone searches “best dog groomer near me,” what they’re really asking is, “Who’s great and also convenient?”
Local Clicks = Local Trust
Even if AI shows a list, the person still chooses. They read reviews, check out your site, maybe even peek at your Instagram. They want to feel like they can trust you. And honestly, they’re usually clicking on the service that feels most real and most local.
What I Do to Get Those Local Clicks (And You Can Too)
Here’s what works for me—and what I help my clients do too:
1. Optimize for Local Keywords
Think: “SEO expert in San Diego,” not just “SEO expert.” Local modifiers still get traffic, even in an AI age.
2. Make It Personal
Add your face. Add your voice. Share your story. I talk about how I started my SEO company right here in San Diego because I genuinely love this city—and people connect with that.
Nail Your Google Business Profile
Google’s still the gatekeeper. A great GBP with photos, reviews, and accurate info builds clicks fast.
4. Show Off Local Wins
I talk about ranking sites for San Diego businesses. I showcase their reviews and success stories. This proves my value and shows potential clients what I can do for them too.
Related post: Will AI Replace SEO?
Bottom Line – People Still Click Because They Want a Real Connection
AI is helpful, smart, and here to stay. But when it comes to deciding who to hire, especially for local services, we want a human we can trust. We want someone who understands the neighborhood, the lifestyle, and the little details AI doesn’t know how to Google yet.
Conclusion: Keep It Real, Keep It Local
If you’re a local business owner worried about AI taking over search, take a deep breath. People still click. They’re looking for you, not just the top result. Focus on being helpful, visible, and human.
And if you need help showing up in local search? That’s where I come in. I’d love to help your business get found and get clicked.
Call or Text Me: (619) 719-1315
San Diego, CA | https://jenruhman.com
FAQs
Q1: Is local SEO still worth it with AI search getting more popular?
Yes! Local SEO is more valuable than ever because AI can’t replace human connection and geographic relevance.
Q2: Do Google Business Profiles still matter?
Absolutely. Google uses them to provide fast, verified info—and people rely on them to choose local businesses.
Q3: What’s the best way to show up for “near me” searches?
Make sure your site is optimized with local keywords, your Google Business Profile is updated, and you’ve got real customer reviews.
Q4: Does being in San Diego actually help your SEO?
Yes. Search engines factor in location data, and being a real local helps you build trust faster with San Diego audiences.
Q5: Can AI help with SEO at all?
Definitely. I use AI tools for content ideas and research—but the real magic happens when a human (like me!) tailors the content to real people in real places.