It makes sense that AI tools have become a go-to. They’re fast, accessible, and can give you an answer in seconds. If you’re trying to understand SEO or get quick direction, it’s an easy first step.
But would you hand your dentist a list of instructions derived from an AI platform before they start filling your cavity? We hope not! And the same goes for your digital marketing partner.
Here’s why:
AI Doesn’t Always Get It Right
AI tools are trained on a mix of sources across the internet. Some of those sources are reliable. Some aren’t. And there isn’t always a clear line between the two.
That’s why you’ll sometimes get confident, detailed answers that are… off. Not wildly wrong, but not accurate enough to act on either.
If you’re using that information to shape your SEO strategy, even small inaccuracies can send you in the wrong direction or waste time on things that won’t move the needle.
It Reflects What’s Out There—Not What’s True
There’s a growing amount of low-quality content online (dubbed “slop”), much of it created quickly to rank or get picked up by AI tools.
The result is a bit of a loop: AI pulls from that content, repeats it, and reinforces it.
So when you ask a question about SEO, there’s a good chance part of the answer is coming from something that sounds credible but wasn’t grounded in real experience to begin with.
Your Results Aren’t Universal
Whether you’re searching yourself on Google or an AI platform, the output can vary.
What you see can change based on your location, your search behavior, and even how you phrase your question. That makes it difficult to get a clear, consistent view of where you stand.
It can also create unnecessary concern, especially if the feedback doesn’t line up with what’s actually happening in your account.
It Doesn’t Know Your Strategy
This is the biggest gap.
AI can analyze what it sees. But it doesn’t know why decisions were made in the first place.
If you’re simply asking your preferred platform, “How can I improve my SEO strategy,” or something similar, it doesn’t know:
- What’s already being tested
- What’s been ruled out (and why)
- How your campaigns have performed over time
- Who your ideal customer really is
- Any brand guidelines or restrictions enforced by your franchise system
So you might get a list of keyword suggestions or recommendations that look helpful, but are things you’re already doing, or intentionally avoiding.
Without that context, the advice can feel productive without actually adding anything new.
A Better Place to Start
If something feels unclear or you want a second opinion, the most useful step is usually the simplest.
Ask the person managing your strategy.
They already have the full picture. They can explain what’s happening, why it’s happening, and what to expect next.
And if something does need to change, it’s coming from real data and experience, not a generalized response.
Rely on FDI for Your Digital Marketing Strategy
It’s completely reasonable to be curious about AI and what it can do. Just keep in mind that quick answers aren’t always complete ones. SEO works best when it’s guided by context, experience, and an understanding of your goals.
If you’re looking for clear direction and not just another set of generic recommendations, we’re here to help.
Contact us today to get a more informed view of your SEO strategy, backed by real data, real context, and a plan built around your business.