AI Generated Content Might Be Hurting Your SEO (and Angering Google)
Let's talk about something that's been buzzing in the SEO world recently - the March 2024 Google Algorithm Update. If you've been following, you know it's been a bit of a rollercoaster, especially for sites leaning heavily on AI-generated content.
Some sites even got the boot from Google's index! 😲
John Mueller from Google basically said, "Think twice before going all-in with AI content right now." And Google tweaked its Quality Rater Guidelines to call out low-quality AI content. Does this mean we should steer clear of AI for content creation?
Not at all! But, let's break it down.
Google wants helpful content
Google's not anti-AI or automation.
They're cool with it when it's used appropriately. They're really after quality content - the kind that's original, useful, and written with real, live humans in mind (not just search engines), showcasing what Google calls E-E-A-T (Expertise, Experience, Authoritativeness, Trustworthiness).
Just asking an AI to "write me a blog post on X" probably won't cut it.
You'll end up with something that's not original (Google's not a fan of rehashed content) and lacks any real expertise or trustworthiness. And let's be honest, that's not doing anyone any favors.
So, what's the deal with the sites hit hard by the update? Well, they were mostly churning out AI-generated content without adding any real value. And that's exactly what Google wants to move away from.
For you, this is actually good news. This update is a reminder to focus on creating content that's genuinely helpful and speaks to your expertise and experiences.
AI is a tool, not the ‘be-all-end-all’
Think of AI as a tool in your toolbox, not the whole workshop.
Remember, your content should resonate with your readers, offering them real solutions and insights, not just something that ticks a box for search engines. You're in the driver's seat, and with a bit of creativity and strategic thinking, you can use AI to enhance your content, not replace the human touch that makes it truly valuable.
How to Use AI to Write Content Without Getting Penalized by Google
Can we really have our cake and eat it, too, when it comes to AI in the content game? You bet! 🎉
But let's get one thing straight: simply asking an AI, "Hey, whip me up a blog post on topic X," isn't going to cut it. Not if you're aiming for content that Google loves and that resonates with your readers.
The secret sauce? Learning to craft prompts that bring out the best in AI, infusing your posts with originality, your unique expertise, and that special something that makes your content you.
Using AI tools like ChatGPT wisely can speed up your writing process and elevate your content to the next level, making it even more Google-friendly.
Read More: How to use AI to repurpose content
So, how do you make AI work magic for you and not against you?
1. AI: Your Virtual Sidekick
Think of ChatGPT, Bard, Perplexity, et al. as your eager-to-please virtual assistant who's new to the blogging scene.
You wouldn't expect a newbie to nail a blog post without some guidance, right? The same goes for AI. Your prompts need to be sharp, packed with the right info, and sprinkled with a bit of flair to get the output you're proud to put your name on. You can see how other marketers are using AI here.
2. You're the Brain
Remember, the genius ideas, the expertise, the unique insights—that's all you. AI is there to help you put those brilliant thoughts into words, not to do the thinking for you. By feeding it rich, detailed prompts, you're ensuring that your content is drenched in your personal brand of E-E-A-T.
3. Train AI to Mimic Your Voice
Ever noticed how ChatGPT can sound... well, like ChatGPT? If you want content that sounds like it came from you, not an AI, you've got to teach it your voice. I recommend giving AI your writing samples or the writing of people you admire so it can adopt your tone and style. Also, be sure to use the right prompts so you get the best output! Remember, this is a continuous process, so keep working at it.
4. Go Beyond Blog Posts
AI's talents extend far beyond just cranking out articles. You can use AI for brainstorming, content planning, SEO strategy, social media management, and even digital product creation—there's a whole world of tasks AI can help streamline. Use it to your advantage!
Learn how to create content that resonates with your audience 👇
An In-Depth Guide to Online Content Creation
5. Wear the Expert Hat
Ultimately, AI is a tool, and like any tool, its effectiveness depends on how you use it. Your expertise, your voice, and your vision are irreplaceable. AI is here to amplify that, not overshadow it.
Embracing AI in your content strategy means being savvy about how you use it.
With the right approach, AI can be a powerhouse ally, helping you produce content that's not only efficient but also deeply engaging and unmistakably yours.
Here's to working smarter, not harder, and making AI your partner in crafting content that shines! 🌟
