Is the Google Algorithm Punishing Websites That Use AI For Content?
You may have heard the phrase Artificial Intelligence (AI) in the news and on social media, and this year especially, AI has taken off. At least once a day you can find articles pertaining to how AI is impacting the arts, advancing medicine, propelling the automotive industry – the list goes on. Regardless of your stance, there is no denying that AI is a hot topic. So, what exactly is AI, and is it a viable replacement for copywriters and content marketers?
Artificial Intelligence (AI) is a technology that uses computers to perform human tasks involving decision-making, problem-solving, and human reasoning. We’ve seen AI depicted in many movies: Her, WALL-E, iRobot, and, of course, The Terminator, to name a few. Just like in those movies, certain types of AI can evolve and learn. Many search engines already have that capability. One of the issues is that these evolving systems are still a work in progress, which is why Google Algorithm penalizes AI-generated content in search rankings. The problem is that AI is missing that one crucial thing that makes us unique – the human element.
Why Google algorithm dislikes AI:
Google’s algorithm is a complex machine that is updated thousands of times yearly. With each update, it is becoming increasingly clear that Google favors human-generated content. Now, why is that? Surely, machines can answer complex questions faster and more accurately than humans. Ok, maybe. However, what Google’s algorithm really wants is the human element.
Artificial Intelligence is just as its name states – artificial. Machines don’t have firsthand knowledge about a specific product, disease, illness or service. They can’t visit businesses or utilize services. Therefore, they cannot provide humans with an actual real-world assessment. As consumers, that is precisely what we are after when we surf the web. What have others said about this person, place, or thing we are interested in? How do doctors define a specific disease and so on.
Another issue with AI-generated content is originality. This speaks to the quality of the content that is presented before readers. While AI can generate content on a specific topic, that content will be generic. It lacks the original and unique voice of the human writer who can provide the best analysis or insight into a specific topic. As a result of this generic response generated by AI, content tends to be viewed as less engaging, which will not help you with Google’s rankings.
Furthermore, because the content is not original, you run the risk of plagiarism. Not everyone providing information online produces unique material. And in some instances, they “borrow” content that becomes what Google defines as duplicate content. If you rely on AI to generate website copy and blog posts on your behalf, be aware that you run the risk of plagiarism, which could have legal consequences or duplicate content which is another item Google does not like and can eventually lower your website rankings.
Is there a place for AI in marketing?
Although there are some drawbacks with using AI to generate marketing content, that doesn’t mean it cannot be used. There is still a place for AI in this space. You just have to know how to use it in a complementary fashion. For example, AI can generate content outlines, proofread blog posts, and provide sources and statistics on a specific topic. Remember, it is a tool, not a replacement for marketers, copywriters and SEO experts.
Our advice to business owners, as technology is ever evolving causing information to change constantly, is simple: don’t give in to the temptation to use AI for content creation. You will be hurting yourself more than helping yourself. Instead, develop a solid marketing budget and hire a full-service marketing agency like McCauley Marketing Services. As professional content creators, SEO Experts, and Google Certified digital marketers, we know how to make Google’s Algorithm work in your favor. So, if you’re looking for a smart marketing plan, contact McCauley Marketing Services to assess your website and handle your SEO optimization. And don’t forget to follow us on Facebook and Instagram for tips and updates.