Tag: SEO

Revamp Your Vehicle Listings with Google’s ‘Build to Order’ Feature

When I discovered Google’s latest update to the Merchant Center, I was thrilled. They’ve added a ‘build to order’ option for vehicle listings, offering sellers like me a streamlined way to display customizable models that customers can factory-order.

I immediately saw how this attribute could revolutionize my listings. It’s designed for dealers who, like myself, don’t always have every model available on the lot. This addition allows us to tag vehicles that aren’t in stock but can be tailored and ordered. It’s a game-changer!

What needs to change. I’m aware that updating my listings involves two critical steps. First, I need to adjust my structured data by setting availability to BuildToOrder. Secondly, I must align my Merchant Center feed with the same availability code. Ensuring consistency is key to avoid listing disapprovals.

Instruction on when to use the availability [availability] attribute in GMC

Why we care. This update is a breath of fresh air for us sellers. Until now, conveying a vehicle’s unavailability for immediate pickup was challenging. Now, the ‘build to order’ option clearly mirrors the operations of modern automakers, especially those like Tesla and Rivian that offer direct-to-consumer customization. It helps set clear expectations for our customers and ensures our data is pristine for Google.

The fine print. Remember, if a vehicle is categorized as ‘build to order,’ it must have the condition attribute set to ‘new.’ If it’s listed as ‘used,’ it will be disapproved. Google regards build-to-order vehicles as newly configured, not pre-owned.

Bottom line. For anyone like me selling customizable or factory-order vehicles, this update is a more precise way to reflect vehicle availability. However, it only works if my feed, structured data, and condition fields are in synchronization.

I first learned about this update from Google Shopping specialist Emmanuel Flossie, who kindly explained how to implement it on his blog.

Dig deeper. For more insights, check out the “Availability [availability]” Google Merchant Centre help doc

Inspired by this post on Search Engine Land.

March 4, 2026
Unlock In-Depth Insights with Asset Hierarchies

I’ve discovered that Asset Hierarchies offer a powerful way to track each of my products, features, and other sub-assets individually. Despite this detailed tracking, everything seamlessly integrates back into the bigger picture of overall brand performance.

This approach allows me to gain granular insights while still maintaining an understanding of my brand’s overall landscape.

Inspired by this post on Try Profound Blog.

March 2, 2026
Enhance Your Image SEO with Google’s Latest Best Practices

When it comes to ensuring my images stand out in Google Search and Discover, I’ve learned that it’s all about using both schema.org markup and the og:image meta tag effectively. Google recently revised its image SEO best practices and Discover guide to clarify how they utilize these elements to select thumbnails.
Image SEO Best Practices – Google introduced a new section in its image SEO guide called Specify a preferred image with metadata. Here, Google explained:
“Google’s selection of an image preview is entirely automated, considering various sources to display a suitable image on Google, such as a text result image or a preview image in Discover.”
So, how can I influence the thumbnails Google selects?
I can specify the primaryImageOfPage property with a URL or ImageObject in schema.org. Alternatively, linking an image URL or ImageObject to the main entity using the mainEntity or mainEntityOfPage properties could be beneficial. Another option is to define the og:image meta tag.
Overall best practices include choosing an image that truly represents the page, avoiding generic images or those containing text, steering clear of extremes in aspect ratios, and opting for high-resolution images whenever possible.
Google Discover Image Selection – In the Discover documentation, I found some insightful tips:
“Incorporate engaging, high-quality images in your content, especially large images, as they are more likely to attract visits from Discover. Images should be at least 1200px wide, high resolution of at least 300K, and maintain a 16×9 aspect ratio.”
Google attempts to crop images automatically for Discover. If I choose to crop images myself, they should be well-positioned for landscape use, ensuring vital details remain in the cropped version specified in the og:image meta tag.
Also important is enabling the max-image-preview:large setting or using AMP. Utilizing schema.org markup or the og:image meta tag allows specifying a large, relevant image as thumbnails in Discover.
Why It Matters – Images significantly impact click-through rates from Google Search and Discover. By understanding and applying these guidelines, I can better guide Google in selecting the right image thumbnails to boost visibility.

Inspired by this post on Search Engine Land.

March 2, 2026
Boost Google Discover Traffic with Key Technical Enhancements

In 2021, my fascination with Google Discover began when I noticed it generating millions of clicks monthly for publishers. I never imagined how significant it would become.

As I scroll through my feed, it covers everything from soccer, television, Baltimore news, SEO, to global happenings. This variety underscores just how intuitively Discover knows users.

Remarkably, Discover isn’t confined to a single app. It shows up in Chrome’s new tabs, Google app, Android homescreens, on Google.com via mobile browsers, and elsewhere on Google platforms.

Given Discover’s pervasive presence, it’s imperative for us SEOs to leverage the opportunities it presents. Let me guide you on how to do just that.

To start, it’s essential to understand that Discover traffic isn’t suitable for every brand, similar to how search may not be the answer for all.

In Discover, timely content takes precedence. The most successful content is often from reputable sources, particularly major publishers, and is usually time-sensitive. Evergreen content is a rare sight.

Interestingly, sites I’ve collaborated with often draw more traffic from Discover compared to traditional search.

There’s an ongoing decline in Discover traffic due to the influx of social posts and AI summaries, which now occupy space in the Discover feed, pushing aside traditional articles.

Previously, crafting articles about viral social media topics was highly effective for attracting clicks. However, the landscape is shifting, prompting Google to experiment with tracking social platform traffic.

Nevertheless, quality and relevance in content continue to hold significant value. Regardless of technical optimization, content that resonates with user interests will always triumph over less relevant material.

Should your content miss the mark on Discover, assess whether it aligns with what Discover seeks to highlight. And in case of a traffic dip, critically examine your content before delving into technical issues.

Don’t be discouraged from optimizing for Discover. These strategies won’t impact traditional search negatively, and they might unexpectedly boost your Discover traffic, as I’ve observed non-publishers enjoy temporary spikes in clicks.

Dig deeper. How Google Discover qualifies, ranks, and filters content: Research

The three primary factors I scrutinize during new client audits are the Discover publisher profile, article images, and signals from the publisher and author. These form the basis of your optimization process.

Your publisher profile should reflect your website and social profiles accurately. Tools like Damian Tsuabaso’s app, albeit in Spanish, can help identify your profile page.

Discover profiles are linked to your entity’s Knowledge Graph ID and this is crucial for your representation as a publisher. Focus on whether your profile pages accurately portray your brand’s identity.

Incorporate your social media handles into your publisher’s profile. This linkage often requires patience, as manual updates are necessary.

Verify if you have the max-image-preview:large tag, which is vital for showcasing large images in article previews, a detail often overlooked in many CMSs.

Images, especially hero images, should be at least 1,200 pixels wide, aligning with Google’s recommendations for optimal display in Discover.

Ensure your Open Graph image tags are correctly configured and reflect high-quality images instead of logos, enhancing Discover visibility.

Prioritize author transparency by ensuring details such as author photos, bios, and social links are visible, underpinning credibility.

Maintain thorough publisher transparency by linking robust About Us and policy pages, as well as implementing structured data carefully.

Discover thrives on relevance, timely content, and authority. Optimization can’t substitute the necessity for high-quality, suitable content.

Remember, Discover is just the starting point. Uncover larger opportunities for your content through comprehensive audits.

Inspired by this post on Search Engine Land.

March 2, 2026
Google’s New Patent May Transform Search Results Through AI

Let me clarify—this is just a patent document, a flicker of a possibility, not an immediate change in Google Search.

A recently published patent from Google hints at a potential shift in how we experience search results. It suggests that instead of landing on a standard webpage, searchers might be directed to an AI-crafted page tailored to individual queries.

Patent Details. Known as AI-generated content page tailored to a specific user, this patent was filed about a year ago and approved just last month.

This patent outlines a system using AI to auto-generate personalized landing pages for businesses or organizations. Instead of simply redirecting me to a generic homepage, it aims to deliver a page that’s directly relevant to my search intent and the organization’s offerings.

Patent Abstract. Here’s an overview from the patent itself:

“Techniques for generating an artificial intelligence (AI)-generated page for a first organization. The system can include a machine-learned model configured to generate the AI-generated page. The system can receive from a user device associated with a user account, the user query. Additionally, the system can generate a search result page for the user query. The search result page can include a first result associated with a first landing page of the first organization. The system can calculate a landing page score for the first landing page. The system can generate an updated search result page based on the landing page score exceeding a threshold value, the updated search result page having a navigation link to an AI-generated page for the first organization. The system can cause a presentation, on a display of the user device, the updated search result page.”

Example Scenario. Picture this: I’m searching for “waterproof hiking boots for wide feet” on a site like REI or Amazon. Normally, I’d end up on a general “Hiking Boots” page and have to sift through countless options. But with AI, Google could direct me to a specially tailored page that zeroes in on exactly what I need.

Community Reactions. Brandon Lazovic spotted this, and it was shared by Joshua Squires on LinkedIn stating, “In short, Google would use AI to generate a page that mimics your website but rebuilds it dynamically.” This has raised concerns among professionals. Glenn Gabe noted, “If you thought AIOs angered people, just wait for AI-generated landing pages from Google.” Lily Ray added, “Terrifying to be honest.”

Why It Matters. This is a mere patent and might never see the light of day. However, it’s intriguing to ponder Google’s potential direction and what it could mean for the future of search.

In any scenario, these insights offer a glimpse into the forward-thinking strategies within Google.

Inspired by this post on Search Engine Land.

February 27, 2026
Google’s February 2026 Discover Update: What You Need to Know
I’m excited to share that the Google February 2026 Discover core update has officially completed its rollout. Starting on February 5 and wrapping up on February 27, this update exclusively affects Google Discover content within the U.S. and in English.

This marks the first confirmed Search update of the year and notably, the first Discover-only update announced by Google. Unlike previous core updates that impacted both Search and Discover, this one is focused solely on Discover content.

U.S. and English Focus. For now, this update only targets English content for users in the United States. However, Google plans to expand it across other countries and languages in the months ahead.

Key improvements. Google stated that this update aims to enhance the user experience by:
- Providing more locally relevant content from domestic websites.
- Minimizing sensational content and clickbait.
- Featuring more in-depth, original, and timely content from sites recognized for their expertise in specific fields.
Since the update emphasizes locally pertinent content, it might lead to decreased Discover traffic for non-U.S. websites targeting a U.S. audience. This impact may subside as the update is adopted globally.

Google has also updated the Get on Discover help page, so I recommend reviewing it for additional insights.

Expanded insights. Google clarified that its systems are designed to identify expertise on a topic-by-topic basis, allowing sites with specialized knowledge to appear on Discover. For instance:
- A local news site with a specialized gardening section could be recognized for its gardening expertise, even if it covers various other subjects. In contrast, a movie review site with a single gardening article would likely not receive the same acknowledgment.
Google intends to continue using systems that personalize content based on users’ favorite creators and sources.

During their tests, Google discovered that “this update makes the Discover experience more valuable and fulfilling.”

Why this matters to us. If your site’s traffic relies on Google Discover, you might have noticed shifts in your traffic patterns. Keep in mind, this update currently affects only U.S. English audiences and pertains solely to Discover. While there’s been significant discussion about Google Search fluctuations, Google hasn’t confirmed those reports.

If you seek further guidance, Google advises referring to their documentation on core updates and the Get on Discover help page.

Inspired by this post on Search Engine Land.
February 27, 2026
Boost Your B2B Visibility: Get Noticed by AI in Vendor Searches

As a B2B company, I’ve noticed a significant shift in how buyers conduct vendor research, especially with the growing use of AI-driven platforms like ChatGPT. This trend presents a unique opportunity for us to increase our visibility and be recommended during the buying process.

To capitalize on this, it’s essential to understand how AI search works and how we can optimize our presence to stand out. By leveraging AI visibility strategies, we can make sure our company appears at the top of vendor search results.

One of the key tactics I’ve explored is incorporating AI-powered SEO tools to fine-tune our website and content. This approach not only enhances our searchability but also aligns with the evolving digital landscape where AI is becoming a primary decision-making tool.

Moreover, staying informed about market trends and continuously adapting our strategies ensures that we remain competitive. Engaging with our audience through personalized content and targeted campaigns can build the brand authority needed to get recommended by AI systems.

In conclusion, as AI continues to reshape the purchasing journey, positioning ourselves strategically in AI searches is vital. By embracing these changes, we can effectively increase our B2B visibility and ensure we’re on the radar of potential buyers.

Inspired by this post on genmark.ai Blog.

February 27, 2026

Unlocking ChatGPT Ads: 2026 Industry Conversion Insights

As I delve into the world of ChatGPT Ads, I’ve noticed that OpenAI has started experimenting with these ads in the U.S. However, we’re still in the early stages and concrete data about advertiser outcomes is sparse. To bridge this gap, I’ve projected conversion rates for ChatGPT ads by analyzing existing differences in conversion rates between organic and paid channels. My insights draw from our detailed reports on PPC vs. SEO Conversion Rates and Organic ChatGPT Conversion Rates. Below, you’ll find a table presenting these projections.

ChatGPT Ads Conversion Rates by Industry

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Industry	Average SEO Conversion Rate	Average Google Ads Conversion Rate	ChatGPT Organic Conversion Rate	Projected ChatGPT Ads Conversion Rate
Addiction Treatment	2.1%	1.1%	2.9%	1.5%
Biotech	1.8%	0.7%	2.1%	0.8%
B2B SaaS	2.1%	1.0%	2.4%	1.1%
Commercial Insurance	1.7%	0.9%	3.1%	1.6%
Construction	1.9%	1.9%	3.4%	3.4%
E-commerce / Retail	1.6%	1.3%	3.0%	2.4%
Financial Services	2.2%	0.3%	1.9%	0.3%
Higher Education & College	1.4%	1.7%	4.9%	6.0%
HVAC Services	3.3%	1.8%	3.9%	2.1%
Industrial IOT	2.2%	0.9%	3.9%	1.6%
Legal Services	4.4%	2.2%	5.6%	2.8%
Manufacturing & Distribution	3.0%	1.0%	3.8%	1.3%
Medical Device	3.1%	0.9%	2.3%	0.7%
Oil & Gas	1.7%	1.5%	3.2%	2.8%
PCB Design & Manufacturing	2.3%	1.4%	2.9%	1.8%
Pharmaceutical	2.0%	1.4%	3.2%	2.2%
Real Estate	2.8%	0.8%	2.8%	0.8%
Solar Energy	2.7%	1.9%	3.5%	2.5%
Transportation & Logistics	1.4%	1.1%	1.9%	1.5%

ChatGPT Ad Conversion Rates: Highest and Lowest

Chatgpt Ads Conversion Rates Highest And Lowest

ChatGPT Ad Conversion Rates: What to Expect

Right now, ChatGPT Ads are visible only to adult users in the U.S. who are logged in and using either the Free or Go subscription tiers. As OpenAI expands its advertising reach, I anticipate several shifts in user behavior worth noting:

Power users of ChatGPT, those on Plus, Pro, Business, or Enterprise plans, might see these ads if OpenAI extends to paid tiers. However, I foresee lower conversion rates in these cases since such users often utilize ChatGPT for tasks like code generation, data analysis, or marketing copywriting rather than searching for products or services.
Initial advertising rates should be fairly low to capture a wide user base, fostering dependency. But, just like Google, Meta, and LinkedIn ads experienced, I expect costs to rise as more adopters join in.
With advancements in agentic AI, advertising could broaden to include sponsored alternatives or upsells. Imagine users planning travel on ChatGPT receiving suggestions for sponsored destinations as extras.

Tag: SEO

ChatGPT Ads Conversion Rates by Industry

ChatGPT Ad Conversion Rates: Highest and Lowest

ChatGPT Ad Conversion Rates: What to Expect

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