Understanding the do’s and don’ts of using AI for SEO tasks is essential for leveraging this technology effectively. Here are some recommendations of what to do and what to avoid when using AI for SEO:

DO’s

Do Manage Your Expectations

Although AI has played a main role in SEO since Google incorporated it into its ranking algorithm in 2016, it has become more accessible and comprehensible for the general public only in recent times. We are currently in the beginning stages of this technology, with new applications and tools emerging daily. However, in the middle of this exciting phase, it is important not to give in to the pressure of experimenting with every new tool. Instead, focus on what aligns with your objectives, understanding that instant results might not be realistic.

Do Use AI for SEO to Save Time

Once you have got used to AI tools, they can significantly streamline your processes, reclaiming valuable time in your schedule. Here’s where AI shines:

  • Analysing SEO data: Tools like Google Analytics and ChatGPT help examine data, revealing patterns and trends that might otherwise be overlooked or consume hours.
  • Creating visuals: AI-powered tools like Tableau swiftly generate visually-appealing graphics to visualise data, simplifying complex information for better understanding.
  • Predicting SEO outcomes: Tools such as ClickFlow allow you to run tests and forecast outcomes, speeding up decision-making for SEO tasks.

Do Use AI for SEO to Evaluate Performance

AI's an invaluable tool  for A/B testing. Use AI tools to generate slightly varied content variations—headlines, metadata, and structures. Run tests to identify what resonates best with both Google and your audience. Take advantage of solutions like Optimizely or RankScience, which not only streamline A/B testing but also offer features for efficient execution using generative AI. 

Do Use AI as a Starting Point for Content

AI supplements content creation by providing structure and guidance, helping in ideation and content optimisation. While AI assists with outlining, suggesting schema markup, or generating initial content, it is essential to make use of human expertise for accuracy, creativity, empathy, and contextual relevance.

Do Use AI for SEO to Understand Your Audience

AI tools offer invaluable insights into audience sentiments, behaviours, and preferences. Leveraging tools like MonkeyLearn, Google Analytics, or HubSpot’s ChatSpot enables a deep understanding of audience perceptions, helping in tailoring SEO strategies and content accordingly.

DON’Ts

Don’t Use AI for SEO Without a Roadmap

AI requires clear objectives and guidance. It possesses immense power but isn’t self-driven. While incorporating AI into your SEO strategy, establish specific goals and key performance indicators (KPIs). Providing datasets, switching between advanced filters, and investing in refining prompts are fundamental. Additionally, when working with generative AI, offering feedback is crucial to tailor the outputs to your needs.

Don’t Forget Your Other SEO Tools

While AI tools are game-changers, don't overlook the strength of established SEO tools like Ahrefs, Moz, Screaming Frog, and Semrush. These reliable and integrated business resources, including HubSpot, are incorporating AI-driven solutions like content assistants to enhance and optimise content in real-time. Leveraging these solutions alongside AI-centric tools can unlock capabilities yet to be tapped.

Don’t Ignore Your Own Learning

While AI and machine learning are focal points, your constant learning is key. Stay updated on SEO and AI developments, understand AI terminologies, and boost your prompt engineering skills. Understanding the recommendations and outputs of AI tools is crucial, and some platforms even offer explanations for their outputs.

Don’t Set and Forget AI for SEO

AI isn’t a miraculous solution guaranteeing instant SEO improvements. Constant monitoring and adaptation of AI tools based on performance and real-world circumstances are crucial. Adapting strategies based on assessments is a fundamental aspect of human skill.

Don’t Forget the Essence of SEO

Remember, the core of SEO is delivering valuable information to real people. While AI streamlines processes, do not detach SEO from its ultimate goal: providing authentic, beneficial content to users. Embrace this opportunity to magnify the value and personalisation of your content, always keeping your audience at the forefront.

Understanding the differences of AI for SEO, balancing its potential and limitations, and integrating human expertise is important for leveraging this technology to elevate SEO strategies in an ever-evolving digital landscape. With a thoughtful approach, AI becomes a useful tool in driving content optimisation and SEO to new heights.

Now that we have covered the do’s and don’ts when applying AI tools for SEO purposes, check out our AI Hub to stay updated with the latest trends and technologies!