From the early days of SEO to today’s AI-driven shifts, I’ve seen how fast things can change—and I’m here to help you stay ahead.
Right now, there’s a big shake-up hitting bloggers: Google’s AI search features are quietly chipping away at our traffic. If your clicks are dropping or you’re nervous about what’s next, don’t worry—I’ve got you covered.
In this post, we’ll unpack how Google’s AI search is flipping the script for bloggers, why sticking to search traffic alone is a risky move, and how spreading your content across platforms and formats can keep your audience growing.
Google’s AI Search: The Traffic Thief You Didn’t See Coming
Picture this: you type a question into Google, and bam—there’s an AI-generated summary right at the top, answering it in seconds. No need to click anywhere else. That’s Google’s AI search in action, rolling out features like AI Overviews (yep, the rebranded Search Generative Experience) since mid-2023. It’s fast, it’s slick, and it’s changing how people use search.
For us bloggers, though, it’s a gut punch. Those handy summaries pull info from our posts and serve it up without sending users our way. A report from The Growth Memo in 2024 found that URLs featured in AI Overviews took an 8.9% hit in clicks compared to traditional results.
he Associated Press dug deeper and noted some publishers saw traffic drops as steep as 25% after AI features ramped up. Ouch.
👉Take a peek at this tweet from SEO expert Barry Schwartz on X:
Big players like Dotdash Meredith have shrugged it off, saying their traffic’s holding steady. Why? They’ve got multiple income streams and content that still pulls readers in. The lesson?
If search is your only lifeline, you’re exposed. But if you branch out, you can weather this storm.
Search Traffic: A Shaky Foundation
Relying on Google alone has always been a bit like building a house on sand. Algorithm updates—like the Helpful Content Update in 2024—can tank your rankings overnight. Now, with AI search joining the party, the ground’s shifting faster. If those AI summaries keep users on Google’s page, your blog’s visitor count could dry up quick.
Here’s the kicker: search habits are splitting. People still use Google, sure, but they’re also flocking to YouTube for tutorials, TikTok for quick hacks, and Instagram for inspiration.
Statista says 54% of Gen Z prefers social platforms over search engines for finding info.
If you’re not showing up where your audience hangs out, you’re missing the boat.
Diversifying isn’t just smart—it’s survival. By mixing up your content and platforms, you’re not at the mercy of Google’s next move.
Plus, you tap into new crowds who might never have Googled you in the first place.
Video Content: Your Blog’s New Best Friend
If there’s one format stealing the show online, it’s video. Deloitte Insights clocked people watching 17 hours of online videos per week in 2024, with 75% of that on phones. That’s a goldmine for bloggers ready to pivot.
Why video? It’s personal. You can talk straight to your audience, show your face, and share your vibe—stuff AI can’t fake. It’s also sticky—viewers hang around longer than they do skimming text. Cisco’s latest data predicts video will make up 82% of internet traffic by 2025. That’s not a trend; it’s a tidal wave.
YouTube’s perfect for longer stuff—think tutorials or deep dives. TikTok, meanwhile, thrives on short, punchy clips—30 seconds of value can go viral fast.
Don’t sleep on Instagram Reels either; it’s got 2 billion monthly users itching for bite-sized content.
Here’s a real example: Graham Stephan, a finance blogger turned YouTuber, grew his audience to millions by breaking down money tips on camera. He didn’t ditch his blog—he just added video to the mix. You can too. No fancy gear needed—just a phone and some guts.
Personal Branding: Your Edge Over AI
AI might crank out content fast, but it’s got no soul. That’s where you shine. People crave real stories, real voices—90% of consumers say authenticity sways their loyalty, per Entrepreneur’s 2023 survey. Your personal brand is your shield against the robot takeover.
Video amps this up. When viewers see you, hear you, they connect. It’s not just info—it’s you sharing it. Think of creators like Casey Neistat, whose raw, human style built a YouTube empire. Your quirks, your passion—that’s what keeps folks coming back.
On X, marketer Ann Handley nailed it:
Your blog’s voice can carry over to video, social, wherever. Stay real, and you’ll stand out.
Cash Flow: Beyond Blog Ads
If Google’s AI is eating your clicks, it’s probably hitting your wallet too—fewer visitors mean less ad revenue. But diversification opens new doors. Video platforms like YouTube pay through their Partner Program once you hit 1,000 subscribers and 4,000 watch hours. Sponsorships are another win—brands love paying creators to plug their stuff.
Affiliate links pop in videos too. Drop them in descriptions or mention them on-screen. Selling your own gear—eBooks, courses, merch—works across platforms. Patreon’s a sweet deal too; fans can chip in monthly to keep you going.
Look at Pat Flynn of Smart Passive Income. He started with a blog, added a YouTube channel, and now rakes in cash from affiliates, courses, and more. Diversify your content, and your income follows.
For a little extra boost, ad networks like Adsterra or Hilltopads can juice up your earnings. They’re solid for running display or native ads, especially if your audience spans the globe. Just keep it subtle—focus on value, not sales pitches.
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Hilltopads
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How to Diversify: 6 Steps to Start Today
Enough talk—let’s get practical. Here’s how you can branch out, step by step:
- Turn Posts into Videos: Got a killer blog post? Record it as a video. A “Top 10 SEO Tips” list could become a YouTube rundown or a TikTok series. Tools like Canva or CapCut make editing a breeze.
- Go Short and Sweet: TikTok and Reels love fast hits. Share a quick tip, a fun fact, or a peek behind the scenes. TikTok for Business even offers free resources to get you rolling—check their site for ideas.
- Team Up: Link up with other bloggers or creators. Co-make a video, swap shoutouts, or host a live Q&A. It’s a fast track to their fans.
- Boost with Ads: Ad networks like Adsterra or Hilltopads can push traffic to your content. Run a small campaign to test it—start with $50 and see what sticks.
- Grab Emails: Build a list from your blog. Send updates, exclusive tips, whatever—email’s a direct line AI can’t touch.
- Talk to Voice Search: More folks use Alexa or Siri. Write content with natural questions—“How do I grow my blog?”—to snag those queries.
Start with one. Test, tweak, repeat. Your blog’s still the core; this just makes it stronger.
AI Won’t Kill You—Here’s Why
Scared AI will replace you?
Relax. It’s a tool, not a creator. It can spit out summaries, but it can’t crack a joke, share a memory, or spark a feeling. Readers—and viewers—want you, not a bot.
AI even needs us. Those summaries? Pulled from our work.
A 2024 study by Moz showed 68% of AI search content links back to human sources. Keep making stuff worth linking to—rich, personal, bold—and you’ll stay in the game.
Proof It Works: Bloggers Who Nailed Diversification
Need inspo? Check these out:
They didn’t ditch writing—they built on it. You can too.
Ads as a Sidekick
Organic growth is king, but a little paid help doesn’t hurt. Networks like Adsterra or Hilltopads let you run cheap ads to spotlight your blog or videos.
Target your niche—say, tech or travel—and watch the clicks roll in. Just track what you spend versus what you earn. Balance is key.
Overcoming Obstacles: Common Diversification Pitfalls
Diversifying isn’t all smooth sailing. Here’s how to dodge traps:
Slow and steady wins.🏆
Tools to Supercharge Your Strategy
Arm yourself with these:
- CapCut: Free video editing with pro vibes.
- Mailchimp: Build and manage your email list.
- Google Analytics: Track what’s working.
These streamline your diversification game.
Wrap-Up: Adapt or Fade
Google’s AI search isn’t stopping, and that’s okay. It’s a wake-up call to rethink how we reach people. Video, social, personal branding—they’re not just extras; they’re essentials. Start small, experiment, and grow from there.
You’ve got what AI doesn’t: heart, hustle, and a story. Use it. Spread your content wide, and you’ll not only survive—you’ll thrive.
Don’t wait for the next traffic dip. Pick one idea—shoot a TikTok, try an ad with Hilltopads, or email your list. Start today, and build a blog that Google can’t shake. What’s your first move? Drop it in the comments—I’d love to hear!
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About the author
Sally
Sally Simard is a passionate content writer and blogger for a long while. She loves to talk and likes sharing her knowledge in various domains, including the latest technology, dropshipping, online marketing, make money online, affiliate marketing, and many more. She is venerated for her research skills, organizational skills, & flexibility, making her the cornerstone of AffNinja.
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