Does SEO Still Work in 2024?

I know we all hear these days that SEO is dead or not worth the effort. But I’ve been hearing that for the past eight years since I started in digital marketing. But every major update from Google brings up the same argument.

But does SEO still work in 2024?

Yes, absolutely. SEO is not dead; it’s changing and evolving in its own way. And it’s happening fast.

Let me tell you what’s changing, what still works in SEO, and how to stay ahead in this dynamic field. Let’s start.

The Evolution of SEO

It’s Not About Keywords Anymore

Remember the early days of SEO?

You could stuff keywords into a page, grab a few backlinks, and voilà—you were ranking on page one.

That era is gone now.

Today, it’s not about gaming the system. It’s about creating value.

Google now rewards websites that focus on user intent and deliver real solutions.

What’s Changing in SEO?

Let’s break it down:

Google’s Search Generative Experience (SGE)

Have you noticed how Google’s search results are more interactive?

AI-driven snippets now give you conversational answers right on the search page. This means fewer clicks but a stronger focus on complex, intent-driven queries.

AI Is Everywhere

Tools like ChatGPT have made content creation easier.

But here’s the catch—Google still prioritizes content that shows E-E-A-T (Experience, Expertise, Authoritativeness, and Trustworthiness). So, while AI can assist, it can’t replace the human touch.

Zero-Click Searches Are Exploding

About 65% of Google searches now end without a click.

Why? Users find answers directly in featured snippets, maps, or instant results. This might sound scary, but it’s an opportunity to get creative with how you attract traffic.

Mobile and Voice Search Dominate

More people search on their phones than on desktops.

And voice search? It’s changing the game. Optimizing for conversational and local queries is no longer optional—it’s essential.

Is SEO Dead?

The idea that SEO is dead comes from confusion. SEO isn’t gone; it’s just harder to win.

Here’s why SEO is still critical:

• Google Is Still King. Over 8.5 billion searches happen on Google daily. That’s not slowing down anytime soon.
• Organic Traffic Matters. Organic search drives more than 53% of website traffic, making it the most valuable channel for many businesses.
• Businesses Need It. From e-commerce to local services, companies depend on SEO to attract traffic, generate leads, and build authority.

What’s the takeaway?

SEO is alive and thriving. But you need to change your SEO strategy from now.

The Biggest SEO Trends in 2024

Let’s talk about what’s hot in SEO right now. These trends are shaping the future, and if you don’t follow them, you risk falling behind.

1. E-E-A-T: Experience Matters More Than Ever

E-E-A-T stands for Experience, Expertise, Authoritativeness, and Trustworthiness.

Google now favors content created by real experts. This is especially true for YMYL topics—content related to Your Money or Your Life (think finance, health, or legal advice).

How to Optimize for E-E-A-T:

• Write content with real experience. Share stories, case studies, and insights only you can provide.
• Display your credentials. Showcase your expertise in your author bio.
• Get backlinks from trusted sources. The more authoritative your site looks, the better.

2. Intent Is the New King

It’s not enough to target keywords anymore. You need to understand why someone is searching for a particular term.

Are they looking for information, wanting to buy something, or comparing their options?

Understanding this intent will help you create content that meets users’ needs.

Tips to Align with Search Intent:

• Study the top-ranking pages for your target keywords. Notice what format (listicle, guide, or product page) is dominating.
• Use tools like AnswerThePublic to understand what people are asking in your niche.
• Optimize for multiple intents—combine informational content with transactional CTAs.

3. Zero-Click Searches: Snippets Are Your Friend

Zero-click searches are everywhere.

Instead of complaining about lost traffic, make them work for you.

How to Rank for Zero-Click Searches:

• Create content that answers questions directly and concisely.
• Use tables, bullet points, and definitions. Google loves these for snippets.
• Don’t just rely on Google. Grow traffic through social media, email lists, and community engagement.

4. Topical Authority or Content Clusters

Google wants to see topical authority. This means organizing your content into clusters, with a pillar page that covers a broad topic and related pages that dive deeper into specific subtopics.

How to Build Content Clusters:

• Start with a pillar page that targets a broad topic. Example: “SEO Strategies for Beginners.”
• Create cluster content around related subtopics. Example: “How to Optimize for Voice Search.”
• Interlink your content like a pro. This signals to Google that your site is the go-to resource.

5. AI + Human Creativity = Magic

AI can be an incredible tool for speeding up your content process.

But remember, Google values original insights and real-life experience.

How to Use AI Smartly:

• Generate outlines, not full articles.
• Use AI to improve grammar and structure but inject your voice and expertise.
• Focus on storytelling, examples, and anecdotes to stand out.

6. Core Web Vitals: Speed Matters

Nobody likes a slow website.

Google cares about user experience. Core Web Vitals measure how users interact with your site—things like page load speed, mobile responsiveness, and visual stability.

Quick Fixes for a Faster Site:

• Compress your images with tools like TinyPNG.
• Use a CDN (Content Delivery Network) to speed up loading globally.
• Regularly test your site on Google’s PageSpeed Insights.

Actionable SEO Strategies in 2025

Now that you know what’s working, let’s get practical.

Here’s your 2025 SEO game plan:

Step 1: Audit Your Content

Start by reviewing what you already have.

• Identify low-performing pages and refresh them with updated stats, examples, and better formatting.
• Merge similar posts to avoid keyword cannibalization.
• Track your performance using tools like Google Search Console.

Step 2: Target Long-Tail Keywords

Why fight for competitive keywords when you can dominate long-tail ones?

• Use tools like Ubersuggest or SEMrush to find low-hanging fruit.
• Focus on specific phrases your audience is searching for. Example: “best SEO tools for small businesses.”

Step 3: Embrace Multimedia

Want to keep visitors on your page longer? Use videos, images, and podcasts.

• Embed YouTube videos to rank on both Google and YouTube.
• Add infographics to visually explain complex concepts.
• Optimize all media with alt text for better accessibility and SEO.

Step 4: Build Authoritative Backlinks

Backlinks still matter. A lot.

• Pitch guest posts to blogs in your niche.
• Create “linkable assets” like in-depth guides or original research.
• Use tools like Ahrefs to find sites linking to your competitors—and pitch them your content.

Step 5: Nail Local SEO

If you run a local business, this one’s huge.

• Claim and optimize your Google Business Profile.
• Collect reviews. A steady flow of positive reviews boosts trust and rankings.
• Add location-specific keywords to your website.

What’s Next for SEO?

Let’s look ahead.

• Google tailors results based on user history and behavior.
• Optimize for natural, conversational phrases.
• Tools like Google Analytics 4 and AI-powered CRMs will give you deeper insights than ever before.

Final Thoughts

SEO Isn’t Dead—It’s Just Smarter

SEO is far from dead. It’s alive, growing, and more rewarding for those willing to adapt.

So, how do you win in 2025?

Focus on intent. Build topical authority. Create content that helps your audience. And always, always stay curious.

Ready to dominate search rankings? Start implementing these strategies today.

Want to make sure your site is optimized for 2025? Grab my SEO Checklist and get started on fine-tuning your strategy today.