Does AI-generated content affect search engine rankings?

AI-generated content does not inherently harm search engine rankings if it adheres to quality standards, as Google prioritizes helpful, reliable, people-first content regardless of production method. However, low-quality or manipulative AI content can lead to penalties, emphasizing the need for E-E-A-T (Experience, Expertise, Authoritativeness, Trustworthiness) alignment to maintain or improve rankings.

• Google's Official Stance on AI Content: Google rewards high-quality content that provides value to users, irrespective of whether it's created by humans or AI tools, as long as it's not designed primarily to manipulate rankings.
• Focus on People-First Content: To succeed in SEO, content must demonstrate E-E-A-T principles, ensuring it's helpful, original, and user-focused, which helps avoid spam penalties and boosts visibility in search results.
• Risks of Low-Quality AI Output: Automated content lacking depth or originality can violate Google's spam policies, potentially lowering rankings, while well-edited AI content can enhance SEO performance.
• Benefits of Human Oversight: Incorporating human review and editing adds authenticity and ensures compliance with guidelines, improving content quality and supporting better rankings in AI-influenced searches.
• EZlocal's Recommendation for AI Website Builder: For optimal SEO results, always review and refine AI-generated content to infuse a personal touch, aligning with best practices for trustworthy, engaging material that drives rankings and user trust.