If you have noticed Google showing AI generated summaries at the top of search results, you are already seeing SGE, the Search Generative Experience, in action.
In 2026 these AI Overviews will influence how people find and trust your brand online. The rules of SEO are changing fast, and now is the time to get ahead.
What is Google’s Search Generative Experience
SGE uses generative AI to answer complex queries directly inside Google Search by summarising key information and citing credible sources.
Instead of showing ten blue links, Google now creates an AI Overview summarising the best available answers. Users can then ask follow up questions without leaving the results page.
That means:
- Visibility matters more than ever even if clicks drop.
- Authority and structure decide whether your brand is cited.
- AEO, or Answer Engine Optimisation, becomes essential alongside traditional SEO.
For a deeper understanding, read our article on Search Optimisation in 2025 Appearing in Google’s AI
Why SGE Matters for Your Business
1. It changes user behaviour
Users are no longer just clicking, they are asking follow up questions right in the results. Brands that feed the AI Overview win trust early.
2. It is built on trust signals
Google prioritises sources that demonstrate Experience, Expertise, Authoritativeness and Trust.
That is where your strategy, structure and technical setup matter most.
3. It rewards clear, helpful content
SGE answers conversational questions, so your content must read like something a person would find genuinely useful.
How to Optimise for SGE in 2026
1. Write for Questions and Conversation
Think like your customers:
- How does SGE affect my SEO?
- What is AEO?
- How can I make my website appear in AI Overviews?
Use natural language headings and include concise answers in your opening paragraphs. These help both voice search and AI Overview comprehension.
2. Strengthen Your E E A T Signals
Show Google you are credible:
- Add expert author bios
- Reference trusted sources
- Keep blogs updated, especially statistics and best practices
- Display genuine client results such as improved clicks and conversions
This reinforces trust for both readers and algorithms.
3. Structure Your Content Clearly
SGE needs clarity. Use:
- H2 and H3 headings for each topic
- Short paragraphs and bullet points
- Schema markup for FAQ, HowTo and Article types
Our guide on Voice Search in 2025 Trends SEO Tips and What Comes Next explains how structure boosts discoverability across voice and AI.
4. Optimise for Featured and AI Snippets
- SGE often draws from the same sources as featured snippets.
- Give direct answers in one or two sentences, then expand below.
- Include supporting data and context since AI Overviews prioritise depth.
- Update evergreen content regularly.
5. Add and Test Schema Markup
Use FAQ and HowTo schema via Divi code modules or plugins.
6. Build Content Clusters and Internal Links
Group related topics together and link them to authoritative pillar pages.
- From ‘What is AEO’ to your SEO Services page.
- From ‘Paid Ads and SGE Visibility’ to Paid Ads Management.
- From ‘Schema for AI Overviews’ to Website Development and Support.
Internal linking helps Google understand relationships between your content which is a major SGE ranking signal.
7. Focus on Technical Performance
- Fast, secure, mobile friendly websites still underpin everything.
- Page speed under three seconds
- HTTPS enabled
- Mobile first indexing ready
- Lazy loaded media for better Core Web Vitals
If you are not sure where to start, our Conversion Optimisation Services can help identify what is slowing you down.
8. Measure Performance Differently
Expect lower clicks but higher brand visibility.
Track your:
- Impressions versus clicks
- Brand search volume
- Featured snippet placements
- AI Overview mentions where visible
Combine Google Search Console with Looker Studio dashboards for real time reporting.
FAQs
Q: What is the difference between SEO and AEO?
A: SEO gets you ranked in search results. AEO optimises your content for AI answers and voice search within those results. Both are essential for SGE visibility.
Q: How long will it take to see results?
A: With strong technical and content foundations, you should see improvements within three to six months. SGE inclusions depend on authority and content quality.
Q: Will SGE replace traditional SEO?
A: No, it builds on it. Think of AEO and SGE as the next layer of SEO evolution rather than a replacement.
Q: Does structured data guarantee inclusion in AI Overviews?
A: No, but it increases your chance by helping Google understand your content’s context and relevance.
Conclusion
Search Generative Experience is here to stay and it will define how businesses are found online in 2026 and beyond.
By combining solid SEO foundations with AEO, structured data and a strong E E A T profile, you will keep your brand visible no matter how Google’s results evolve.
At Stellar Digital Media, we help brands build future proof digital strategies that perform across SEO, AI and paid search.
Get in touch today to discuss your needs with us or explore our Digital Strategy Services to future proof your online presence today.