Is SEO dead in 2025? My Thoughts...

Not a fan of dramatic headlines like “SEO is dead,” but I get why people say it — especially in 2025.

With AI bots giving direct answers, Google's SERPs flooded with AI summaries, and platforms like TikTok eating into search behavior, it feels like SEO is on life support. But here’s what I’ve actually seen on the ground running an agency — not theory, real-world:

1. SEO isn't dead — lazy SEO is.

You can’t throw up a 500-word article stuffed with keywords anymore and expect traffic. Thin content is done. Even programmatic content is getting flagged if it’s not thoughtful.

But sites that focus on topical depth, EEAT signals, and human-first content? Still ranking. Still converting. Still alive.

2. Search is evolving, not dying.

Yes, people ask ChatGPT and Gemini for quick answers. But guess what? Most of those AI answers still cite websites. And if your site isn’t in that mix, you’re not just missing out on traffic — you're missing mindshare.

We’ve started experimenting with llm.txt, refining site descriptions for LLMs, and shaping how AI interprets our clients’ brands. Early days, but I’d rather ride the wave than get washed under it.

3. SEO ≠ Just Google

We’re optimizing for YouTube search, Reddit search, even Amazon. Heck, even TikTok SEO matters now. “Search engine optimization” doesn’t mean just one engine anymore — it's wherever intent meets content.

4. SEO is more technical and strategic now.

We spend more time building content hubs, structuring data, monitoring crawl behavior, and analyzing intent clusters than we ever did. It’s not sexy, but it works.

AI tools help — we use n8n, GPT-based writers, and automated content trackers — but it still requires human strategy. That’s not going away.

5. Clients still want Google traffic.

Despite all the doom-talk, most businesses still equate ranking with credibility. And when done right, SEO still delivers a high ROI — especially when paired with email or paid media.

TL;DR:

SEO isn't dead. But the old version of SEO definitely is.
Adapt or get outplayed by those who are blending tech, content, and brand like it’s 2025 — because it is.

Would love to hear how others are adapting. Especially folks running sites or clients in competitive niches — are you doubling down on SEO or diversifying?

submitted by /u/pkmuzik1991
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