How Google’s Update, Schema AI Tools, and Strategic SEO Expansion Are Shaping the Future
From new algorithm shifts to smarter schema implementation, SEO continues to evolve at a fast pace. The August 2024 Google Core Update and new schema AI tools, provide opportunities to expand client relationships with upsells and cross-sells.
Google Algorithm & SEO Industry News
Google Business Profile Appeals Delayed
Appealing a suspension or rejection on Google Business Profile (GBP)? Expect delays. Recent reports show appeals now take over 7–15 days—a notable slowdown. This highlights the importance of proactive profile management and adhering closely to GBP guidelines to avoid disruptions in local visibility.
Google August 2024 Core Update: What We’re Seeing So Far
Sites penalized by last year’s September 2023 algorithm update are seeing a return to traffic. This is great news for those who made strategic changes over the past few months. But this update is still rolling out, and the industries most affected have yet to be clearly identified.
AI Overviews Still Favor Top 10 Organic Rankings
An seoClarity analysis of 36,000 keywords revealed that 99.5% of sources cited in AI Overviews (AIOs) come from websites already ranking in the Top 10. The bottom line is that organic search rankings still matter deeply, and the best path to being featured in AI Overviews is to rank on page one.
Google’s Advice on Blocking Bots
Malicious bots can wreck your server performance and skew analytics. We recommend using Web Application Firewalls (WAFs) or Content Delivery Networks (CDNs) to block bad bots efficiently. For WordPress users, tools like Wordfence or Sucuri offer smart automated protection.
SEO Strategy Spotlight: Using AI to Supercharge Schema
Contributor: Alex Chefalo
AI is making structured data smarter. By integrating tools like ChatGPT 4.0, schema creation can be faster, more precise, and more scalable. Here’s how to get started:
Schema + AI Toolset
- Schema Path Tool: Combine multiple schema types (e.g., FAQ + How-To).
- Wikidata Look-Up: Add authority with verified “SameAs” fields.
- Mark-Up Generator: Generate schema types and merge via AI.
- ChatGPT 4.0: Scrape domains and draft structured data templates.
- Markup Validator: Catch and fix schema errors pre-launch.
Practical AI Use Cases
- Reformatting existing schema types
- Generating templates for product or review schema
- Modifying bulk data efficiently (but carefully!)
- Ensuring consistency when combining local and organization-level schema
A word of caution: AI tools don’t always add required script tags or handle edge cases. Always validate your schema manually before publishing.
SEO as a Growth Engine: Cross-Selling & Upselling 101
Contributor: Justin Klanica
SEO isn’t just about traffic—it’s also a powerful gateway to expanding client relationships. At 829 Studios, here’s how we approach strategic upsells and cross-sells:
Cross-Sell vs. Upsell: What’s the Difference?
- Upsell: Expanding the scope of existing SEO work (more content, hours, external linking).
- Cross-Sell: Introducing a new service to a current SEO client (like PPC, PR, or web dev).
Step-by-Step Framework
- Spot the Opportunity: Use performance metrics to identify gaps (e.g., strong traffic but weak conversions).
- Tailor the Pitch: Align services to client goals and pain points.
- Collaborate Internally: Cross-train SEO and PPC teams to recognize expansion potential.
- Present at QBRs: Use business reviews to introduce ideas with case studies.
- Track Success: Log proposals, measure service adoption, and refine based on feedback.
Communicating SEO Wins to the C-Suite
Contributor: Eric Bornfriend
Your SEO performance deserves recognition—but C-level leaders want more than keyword rankings.
Make It Executive-Ready:
- Link updates to revenue and business impact
- Translate technical terms into plain language
- Lead with impact—don’t bury the lead
- Always include next steps or a strategic plan
- Visuals > Jargon: Charts and dashboards help make your case
- Maintain a central dashboard: Make it easy for execs to track progress over time
From battling bots to getting cited by AI Overviews, SEO today is more nuanced—and more strategic—than ever. Stay ahead by combining technical best practices with relationship-building and business alignment.
