Beyond the Blue Links: The New Playbook for AI-Powered Search
The game has changed. For over a decade, marketers mastered the art of climbing Google's rankings. But with the rise of AI Overviews and conversational search, the classic "10 blue links" are fading. We're in a new era where answers are synthesized and clicks are no longer the primary goal.
How can brands survive ...and thrive... in this new landscape? Host Nick Brunker welcomes back VML's Chief Discoverability Officer, Heather Physioc, who is on the front lines guiding global brands through this evolution.
In this episode, you'll learn:
- The End of an Era: What Google's AI Overviews and AI Mode mean for the future of search.
- The "Zero-Click" Threat: Why website traffic is declining and how to adapt your measurement strategy when clicks and rankings are no longer the key metrics.
- Becoming the Source: Practical steps to build authority and create content that AI engines will trust and cite.
- The Marketer's Playbook: A three-part plan for what to do immediately, what to test in the near term, and the strategic pivots to plan for long-term success in the age of AI.
Creators and Guests
Host
Nick Brunker
Nick is a Forrester CX-Certified professional with a versatile portfolio including more than a decade of discipline in human-centered experience strategy, insight-based digital transformation, eCommerce & omnichannel planning. As part of VMLY&R’s CX practice, Nick is responsible for cultivating a deep understanding of customer motivations and business needs to deliver best-in-class experiences for our clients – and, as importantly, the people they serve. He collaborates with senior leaders to drive strategic alignment, push thinking into action, and helps architect CX measurement frameworks to achieve customer and business objectives. Additionally, he is actively expanding the agency’s industry footprint through thought leadership and IP development. During his career, Nick has partnered with various Fortune 500 clients across numerous categories, including Ford Motor Company, Google, General Mills, Fifth Third Bank, and Southwest Airlines, among others. He and his wife, Abbey, reside in Cincinnati, Ohio, with their children Nolan, Emma & Ainsley, and their ten-year-old pup, Bailey.
Guest
Heather Physioc
She/her. Marketing keynote speaker. Chief Discoverability Officer @VMLYR @VML_Global. Hiker. Photographer. Laugh easily. Tattoo often. A dog's best friend.
