Michael King’s Post

I liked it better when "AI mode" just meant someone was about to get their ankles broken in basketball 🏀... but now, Google is rewriting the playbook! 🚀 Google’s latest update is transforming search by melding traditional results with a conversational, AI-powered twist that delivers context-rich, "expert-level" insights. I put the "expert-level" in quotes because that's what the marketing messages say, but the reality is much different. Either way AI Overviews and AI Modes are the new gatekeepers of your traffic, but does that really matter when the more qualified visitor makes their way through? See, this is why NYC SEO Week is a must-attend event. It's designed to empower SEOs with both the performance tactics and brand-building strategies needed for the future. Today’s search isn’t just about clicks; it’s a vital brand channel that tells your story, builds trust, and educates users to make those that click through much more qualified. 💡 🔥 Here are some sessions from SEO Week that will help you navigate the future: 🎙️ "The Brave New World of SEO" – Me We're going to kick off with my thoughts on navigating an AI-first search landscape and rethinking SEO in an era where algorithms and human intuition converge. 💡 "The 'Other' AI That is Hurting Your Organic Traffic" – Wil Reynolds Discover why authentic, human engagement is becoming the ultimate counterbalance to the rise of AI-driven search—and how to pivot your strategy accordingly. 🌟 "You Are Bigger than SEO" – Rand Fishkin Rand will break down how discovery has changed and what marketers need to do beyond SEO to stay relevant. 🔥 "F Traffic: Prioritizing Conversions Over Vanity Metrics" – Bianca (Binks) A. Rethink your KPIs as Bianca Anderson challenges the status quo—moving beyond mere traffic to focus on conversions, revenue, and genuine business impact. 🚀 "The Vicious Cycle of SEO: How We Got Here & Where We’re Going" – Lily Ray Lily will demonstrate the key patterns that have shaped SEO over the years — what worked, what failed, and why, and how past knowledge can inform future approaches 🤖 "AI is Rewiring Your Search Behavior" – Garrett Sussman Explore how AI is redefining user intent and interaction, and learn practical steps to adapt your content strategies for a more conversational and dynamic search environment. "Introducing: AX (Agent Experience)" – James Cadwallader James will teach you how brands need to optimize for AI Crawlers and AI retrieval agents in the next phase of search. As search continues to evolve, it’s time to see every query as an opportunity to engage, inform, and inspire. Join us at SEO Week 2025 to gain the strategic insights, technical skills, and creative inspiration you need to lead in this new era of search. Get your tickets at the link in the first comment 👇🏾