Google SGE: how to adapt your website to AI search

Generative search is redefining SEO as we know it. Google SGE (Search Generative Experience) introduces AI-generated answers directly in search results… and that means fewer clicks, more competition, and a new approach to stand out.

In this guide, we explain exactly what Google’s generative search is, how it will affect traditional SEO, and what you can do today to keep your website visible and relevant.

What is generative search (SGE)

The Google generative search (SGE) is a new type of AI-driven result that offers complete, contextualized, and conversational answers without the need for the user to visit a specific website.

Unlike the classic SERP, where the user sees a list of links, the SGE:

• Summarizes key information,
• Cites relevant sources,
• Generates a direct answer,
• And presents suggestions for further exploration.

In many cases, the answer takes up almost the entire top space of the page.

Visual example: In a traditional SERP, you would see a list of results. In SGE, you would see a colored block with an AI-generated summary, images, links, and the complete answer in the foreground.

How SGE works

SGE combines generative models with Google’s index. In seconds:

• Analyzes the search intent.
• Finds relevant content.
• Generates an answer based on multiple sources.
• Displays cited links, but in a secondary manner.

It is important to note that:

• Its arrival is inevitable and will transform visibility in search engines.
• The SGE is generated in real-time, it is not static content.
• It is not yet fully available in the European Union, but Google is conducting tests and regulatory adjustments to launch it soon.

How SGE affects traditional SEO

The appearance of a large AI block at the beginning of the search has clear consequences:

Fewer organic clicks

Direct answers lead to zero-click results, where the user finds what they need without visiting any website.

Less visibility for traditional links

Organic content is pushed further down and competes with AI for the user’s attention.

More relevance for entities and reputation

SGE prioritizes:

• Domain authority,
• Legitimacy of information,
• Brand reputation,
• Semantic coherence.

Exact match keywords lose prominence in favor of a global understanding of the topic.

The rise of GEO (Generative Engine Optimization)

With this new scenario, GEO emerges: Generative Engine Optimization.
It’s no longer just about appearing in a list, but about becoming a source cited by Google’s generative AI.

Example:
A nutrition website can be cited in the answer generated by Google if it has:

• Deep content,
• Verifiable data,
• Clear structure,
• Visible authorship,
• Trust signals.

Optimizing for GEO means adjusting your website so that Google can use it as a reference when generating answers.

Keys to prepare your website for generative search

Create deep and verifiable content

AI needs reliable sources.
Avoid superficial or automatically generated content without supervision. Prioritize:

• Verified data,
• Expert opinions,
• Real examples,
• Frequent updates.

Use structured data (Schema and JSON-LD)

Structured data helps Google better understand:

• What your website offers,
• What entities you mention,
• What type of content you are publishing.

This increases the likelihood of being cited in SGE.

Optimize for direct answers and frequently asked questions (FAQ)

Prepare content that can appear in snippets or as a reference:

• Paragraphs of 40–60 words that answer key questions.
• Optimized FAQ sections.
• Clear definitions at the beginning of the content.

Strengthen your digital authority (E-E-A-T)

AI prioritizes trustworthy sources. Review:

• Author page with real bio.
• Clear corporate information.
• Transparency about sources and processes.
• Certifications or validations when available.

Increase the speed and stability of your hosting

SGE favors fast, secure, and stable websites. You can improve your performance with resources such as:

• Optimized hosting from cdmon, designed for WordPress and demanding projects.
• SSL certificates free Let’s Encrypt or advanced.

Take care of security and regulatory compliance (ENS, ISO 27001)

Trust is key for generative AI. Recommended practices:

• Keep systems updated.
• Use hosting services with ENS and ISO 27001 compliance.
• Properly configure DNSSEC and security policies.

All this reduces risks and improves your digital reputation.

For Google SGE, E-E-A-T and technical reputation are crucial. For this reason, cdmon’s hosting is certified with:

• ENS Medium category
• ISO 27001 security
• ISO 9001 quality

How to measure the impact of generative search

Google is starting to introduce specific metrics related to AI search modes.

You will be able to analyze:

• Changes in clicks and impressions in Google Search Console.
• Variations in CTR in informational queries.
• Drops in organic traffic associated with zero-click results.

Useful tools:

• Google Search Console,
• Google Analytics 4,
• Ahrefs, Semrush, or Sistrix to analyze visibility.

Although SGE is not fully active in Europe, it is advisable to start establishing a baseline for comparison.

Conclusion

Generative search does not mark the end of SEO, but its evolution. We move from traditional SEO to GEO, where relevance, authority, and quality are more important than ever.

Preparing now will allow you to:

• Maintain your visibility,
• Be cited as a source in the new results,
• Stand out against competitors who are not yet adapting.

At cdmon, we support you with services that enhance performance, security, and stability: from optimized hosting to SSL, advanced DNS, and professional solutions designed to improve your positioning.

SGE will soon arrive in Europe. The sooner you adapt your website, the more prepared it will be for the future of SEO with AI.