Just when you thought you understood how Google displays search results, they’ve gone and chucked 40 number one spots into the mix. Nope, that’s not a typo – we’re seeing up to 40 different citations in AI Overviews (AIO) recently, particularly it seems for health and medical queries.
Here’s a post on Twitter (never X) about the situation, from Glenn Gabe of G-Squared Interactive LLC:
If you’re thinking ‘How the bloody hell can you have 40 number ones?’, you’re not alone. Let’s have a look at what’s actually happening and what it means for your business – I’ll try not to make it any more complicated than it needs to be.
What’s Actually Happening?
When someone searches for something like “flaxseed benefits”, instead of just showing the usual list of results, Google’s now creating an AI-powered overview that looks like it could pull information from up to 40 different sources. It’s like having a shopping centre with 40 different display windows instead of just one main window – more opportunities to be seen, but also more competition for attention.
I double checked this with some of my own searches and although I didn’t find a search that had 40 ‘number ones’, I did find a few around Ozempic and other weight loss injections that definitely had more than you would expect.
Why Should You Care?
If you’re in health, medical, or similar information-heavy sectors, this is massive. Your content could now appear in these overviews even if you’re not ranking at the traditional number one spot. But here’s the catch – your content needs to be properly citation-worthy. That means no more churning out the same old regurgitated stuff everyone else is writing.
What Makes Content Citation-Worthy?
Original Research and Data
Gone are the days when you could just rewrite what everyone else is saying. Google’s looking for content that brings something new to the table, whether that’s your own research, unique data, or genuine expert insights.
Actual Expert Input
Not just “I read this somewhere” expertise, but real, provable knowledge from people who know what they’re talking about. If you’re writing about health benefits, get actual health professionals involved.
Clear, Factual Information
No more wishy-washy “some people say” content. Back up your claims with proper sources, use clear language, and add something valuable to the conversation.
Which Sectors Could Be Next?
Finance and Money Advice
Given the importance of accurate financial information, this sector’s likely next in line. Think mortgage advice, investment guidance, and personal finance tips.
Legal Information
Legal content is another natural fit – it needs to be accurate, well-sourced, and trustworthy.
Educational Content
From how-to guides to academic topics, educational content could soon see similar treatment.
What NOT to Do
Don’t Panic-Rewrite Everything
Your existing quality content isn’t suddenly worthless. This is about improving going forward, not starting from scratch.
Avoid AI-Generated Fluff
If you’re thinking of using AI to churn out masses of content hoping to get cited, think again. Google’s not daft – they can spot that a mile off.
Stop Keyword Stuffing
Seriously, if you’re still doing this, stop it. It wasn’t working before, and it definitely won’t work now.
What Should You Actually Do?
Audit Your Existing Content
Look at what you’ve already got. Which pieces contain original insights, data, or expert knowledge? These are your potential citation goldmines.
Plan Future Content Properly
Start thinking about how you can add genuine value to every piece you create. What can you say that others haven’t? What unique perspective can you offer?
Focus on Your Expertise
Stick to what you actually know about. Better to be cited as an authority in your specific niche than to be ignored trying to cover everything.
It’s Not The End Of The World As We Know It
This change isn’t about trying to game a shiny new system – it’s about creating content that’s actually worth citing. If you’re already producing genuine, valuable content, you’re halfway there. If you’re not, well, now’s a good time to start.
Remember, these AI Overviews aren’t replacing traditional search results – they’re adding another layer to them. Think of it as an opportunity to get more visibility for content that actually deserves it. And isn’t that what search should have been about all along?
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