Today, many searches don’t require a click on a website link. Instead, users obtain satisfying information directly from Google — thanks to the emergence of zero-click searches.

However, if you are bothered about your click-through rate (CTR) and about losing visitors that once relied on your website for information or purchases, this article will be a guide on how to optimize your content for zero-click searches in 2025.

What is Zero-Click Click Search Result?

Zero-click search result occurs when a user searches for information on search engines like Google, and the answer to the query is displayed on the search engine results page (SERP) without the user having to click on any link.

These results are often displayed on Google for question-based queries, weather updates, mathematical formulas, and many more

For example, when Google was asked about AI SEO (as shown in the image below), the AI overview comes first, followed by a brief summary of the information stated earlier, with links to websites where the information was compiled –making it a zero-click search result.

How Does Zero-Click Search Results Impact SEO in 2025?

Zero-click search results is not the end of SEO, but ranking on zero-click search results means your content is well-optimized for SEO. According to a study by Semrush on zero-click searches, it was discovered that only 17.3% of mobile searches and 25.6% of desktop searches result in zero-click searches. In other words, zero-click isn’t the industry threat many make it out to be — at least not yet.

However, zero click search results only reduces the number of clicks on websites. Optimizing your content to appear there increases your brand visibility and establishes authority.

Types of Zero-Click Search Results?

• Direct Answer Box

This is a type of Zero-click search (located at the top of Google search) that provides answers to queries directly, without providing links, because the answers are simple and straightforward. For example, asking Google what SEO means as demonstrated in the following screenshot.

• People Also Ask

This a Google SERP feature that displays related questions people ask about the query a user has entered. Google provides an AI overview and links to web pages when these questions are clicked on. 

For example, asking Google “What is SEO?” brings up related questions such as “What is SEO and how does it work?”

• Featured Snippet 

A featured snippet, also known as position zero, is a group of text displayed at the top of the SERP, designed to provide quick answers to users’ queries with a webpage URL from which the answer/information was extracted.

• AI Overviews 

The AI overview is a feature on Google that displays straightforward results to users’ queries, these results are compiled from multiple websites. It is designed to provide key information or data in response to a question, alongside links for further study.

• Knowledge Panel

A knowledge panel is the information displayed on the right-hand side of a Google SERP when a person, place, or brand is searched for. For example, when I searched for Neil Patel, a marketer who founded CrazyEgg and other multimillion-dollar companies, I discovered vital details about him, including his date of birth, books he authored, and his profession with just a search. See below.

How to Optimize for Zero-Click Search?

1. Conduct Thorough Keyword Research 

Using the right keywords is generally best when you are looking to rank in any of the zero-click searches we have. These keywords can trigger featured snippets and ‘People Also Ask’ sections, which can help your articles and website rank higher in the SERPs and increase your visibility. Utilize keyword research tools like Semrush’s Keyword Magic Tool, Ahrefs’ Keyword Difficulty Checker, and many more to execute this effectively.

2. Optimize for Featured Snippet 

When your articles rank for Featured Snippets, it can help you scale past the competition around a topic, making your search result more prominent and increasing your CTR. To rank for featured snippets, use question-like headings, target long-tail keywords, and also provide answers to your questions within the first paragraph, with clear and concise answers.

Further Reading: Writing for Google’s Featured Snippets: How to Structure and Optimize Content for Position Zero

3. Provide detailed information and clear formating 

To make your article/content easy for both users and search engines to understand, edit for easy readability. Write using more active voice than passive voice, use short sentences and paragraphs, and also headings in order of importance from H1-H4.

4. Ensure your article is Indexed

Submit your blog for indexing so Google can store your blog content in its database and make it easier for users to discover. To make your content more discoverable, create high-quality, value-rich content and use relevant keywords with less competition.

5. Optimize for Local SEO

Optimizing for local SEO will enhance your online presence and attract targeted traffic to your website for local searches.

First, optimize your Google My Business (GMB) account by ensuring that your location, phone number, and website URL are entered correctly.

This will help your articles and website rank higher and become more visible in local searches.

Further Reading: 7 Ways to Improve Local SEO and Attract New Customers

FAQs 

What is a zero-click search?

A zero-click search is a search query where the user receives the answer directly on the search engine results page (SERP) without needing to click on any links.

What is an AI Overview?

AI Overview is a feature in Google Search that uses generative AI to provide quick answers to search queries by summarizing content from multiple websites.

How does AI Overview impact SEO?

AI Overview changes the way SEO works, as users may not click on links. To adapt, focus on earning visibility within SERPs through featured snippets, rich results, and high-quality content.

What types of content are most likely to be featured in AI Overview?

Content that directly answers user queries, provides concise information, and is structured with clear headings and schema markup is more likely to be featured in search results.

What role does schema markup play in AI Overviews?

Schema markup helps search engines understand the structure and context of your content, increasing the likelihood of being featured in AI-generated overviews.

How can I measure the impact of AI Overviews on my website?

Track changes in organic traffic, impressions, and click-through rates (CTRs) using tools like Google Search Console.

Can I optimize old content for AI Overviews?

Yes, update and optimize existing content with relevant keywords, structured data, and concise answers to increase its chances of being featured.

Bottom Line 

As AI Overviews become more prevalent, optimizing your content for zero-click searches is just as important as seeking profit for your business. By focusing on high-quality content, structured data, and featured snippets, you can increase your visibility and drive traffic to your website. Stay ahead of the competition by adapting your SEO strategy to the evolving landscape of search.