Only 5.4% of AI overviews match exact queries

Hey, Paige here!

Before we get into today’s best marketing research… 

In today’s release: 

• Search engine volume predicted to fall by up to 25% by 2026

• AI as a promising lead source

• 3 easy steps for optimizing your existing content for AI

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DEEP DIVE

AI-powered search is transforming how people find answers and products online. Many companies have already started to see the evidence in their CRM (we have 😉). 

With the rise of AI-driven search engines comes the gradual fall of traditional search methods. Some even predict search engine volume to fall by 25% by 2026 and as fast as 50% by 2028. 

From conversational search queries to personalized content recommendations, the game has changed — fortunately, it might not take a hefty lift to satisfy the AI-powered engines with updated content. 

Optimizing doesn’t have to be rocket science. You can start today. Let’s go ⤵️

Tip 1: Lean into conversational content

Conversational queries are increasing year-over-year, and AI-driven systems like Google’s AI Overview prioritize conversational information (only 5.4% of AI overviews contain the exact query). 

AI-driven search engines synthesize and paraphrase information — it’s looking for the best answer, not the exact query match. Focus on detailed, relevant answers tailored to intent.

Example: Use question-based headers like “How can I improve my video engagement?” to align with user queries. 

Tip 2: Focus on topic clusters over keywords

AI-driven search engines prioritize context and intent over keywords. Search engines analyze entire pieces of content for relevance and depth. 

Organize your content into clusters centered on a pillar topic with supporting articles. Building internal links can help AI search engines understand the context of your content and therefore rank it higher.

Example: A pillar page on “Content Marketing Strategy” links to supporting blogs on SEO, video marketing, and social media.

Tip 3: Optimize for voice search

71% of internet users say they’d rather use search via a voice query. These queries are typically long and conversational — ringing in at about 29 words per query. 

Voice queries tend to be phrased as full questions or statements rather than short phrases. Focus on long-tail keywords that reflect natural language.

Example:

• Traditional keyword: “best podcasting tools”

• Voice-friendly: “What are the best podcasting tools for startups?”

While these three tips are a fantastic starting point, you can build onto your optimization by leveraging schema markup, creating rich long-form content, and tailoring content to specific audience segments. 

With AI-powered search on the rise, now is the time to jump in with optimization. 

The takeaway: AI-powered search is rewriting the rules—start optimizing today with conversational content, topic clusters, and voice-friendly strategies to stay ahead.