Should you use AI for SEO content? We explore the pros and cons of this new technology.
The digital marketing industry appears to have discovered the Holy Grail: the ability to effortlessly generate high-quality content that not only attracts visitors but also enhances search rankings.
With just a few simple instructions given to an AI bot, one can sit in front of a computer and witness the magic unfold as a fully-formed article is generated within seconds, ready to be published, and all without any cost.
At first glance, this may seem like the long-awaited answer to our content creation needs. However, it is crucial to recognise that the reality is not as straightforward as it may initially appear. While AI bots for writing SEO content undeniably offer an alluring proposition, several critical factors warrant careful consideration before fully embracing this innovation.
Is AI good or bad for SEO?
As with any emerging technology, there is no definitive answer as to whether AI bots should be embraced or avoided. This type of artificial intelligence is still in its infancy. While AI can be a powerful tool when used correctly, it can also be harmful if misused.
Insights from search engine giants
One crucial aspect to consider is how the major tech providers see this brave new world. Google and Bing, the leading search engine giants, have been pioneers in developing their own AI systems. Therefore, it’s safe to assume that they recognise the inherent value of content generated by artificial intelligence.
In fact, Google released guidance in February acknowledging their belief in AI and their intention to reward original, high-quality content, regardless of how it is produced.
Moreover, there are no indications of algorithm updates specifically targeting AI-generated content to adjust search rankings accordingly. This suggests that web crawlers are not actively penalising such articles. However, it is essential to note that search engines prioritise user experience and relevance, so ensuring that machine-generated material meets those standards is crucial.
Potential traps of AI writing
Ultimately, the effectiveness of using bots for writing SEO content depends on how they are utilised. If AI is relied upon to do most of the work with minimal manual effort, the content will likely lack the human touch and come across as spammy or inauthentic. To avoid these pitfalls, content creators must strike a balance between utilising AI capabilities and adding their own expertise and creativity to the process.
It’s also imperative to remember that there are several areas of concern. Tools such as ChatGPT, Bing and Bard have produced duplicate content that can be easily found elsewhere, exhibit unreliability or inaccuracy, and feature excessive repetition of words or concepts. Additionally, the resulting text from these tools often carries a robotic tone, lacks proper headings or structure, and disregards relevant keywords. Marketing professionals and copywriters must remain mindful of these factors and proactively take steps to address them.
How to leverage AI for your SEO campaigns
By combining the capabilities of AI with human intervention and expertise, you can enhance your content creation process and streamline various SEO tasks. Here are some key strategies:
1. Aim for relevance and originality: One of the fundamental principles of successful SEO is creating content that is relevant, original and genuinely helpful to users. Regardless of whether AI is involved, it is crucial to prioritise user experience and provide valuable information. Artificial intelligence can assist in generating ideas, but the focus should always be on creating material that meets the needs of your audience rather than solely manipulating search rankings.
2. Use AI to improve productivity: Instead of relying on AI to write entire articles, use it responsibly to assist with creativity. Artificial intelligence is also handy for formulating small sections. This can help you overcome writer’s block, generate fresh ideas and explore new vocabulary.
3. Edit everything: AI can be particularly useful for addressing standard and repetitive content that may occasionally be found elsewhere. However, it is crucial to proofread the generated content and make the necessary tweaks to ensure it reads naturally and aligns with your brand’s tone of voice.
How Activate Digital envisions the role of AI in SEO
While we recognise the potential benefits of AI bots for writing SEO content, we believe in the power of human expertise and creativity in crafting compelling narratives and engaging experiences for your target audience.
The content writers at our SEO agency are skilled in conducting thorough research, understanding your brand’s unique voice, and tailoring content to resonate with your audience. They collaborate closely with our SEO specialists to ensure that the content they create aligns seamlessly with your SEO objectives, driving organic traffic and boosting search rankings.
By combining the best of human talent with cutting-edge technology, we offer a holistic approach to content creation and SEO.
We strategically harness the power of AI to enhance our operations, combining it with our strategies to unlock new levels of creativity, boost productivity and automate repetitive tasks. However, we always emphasise the importance of human intervention and verification to ensure the final output is of the highest quality.
Contact us today to discuss how Activate Digital can power your SEO strategies with original, insightful and impactful content.