EP 64: Zero Click AI Searches- The Reason Your Website Traffic is Down

In this episode, Jenna Gaidusek dives deep into the growing crisis of zero-click search—a shift in how people find answers online that’s impacting small businesses, designers, and anyone relying on website traffic for visibility and leads. Jenna explains what zero-click search is, why it’s become a problem over the past two years, and how AI-generated summaries on platforms like Google, ChatGPT, Perplexity, Claude, and Gemini are changing the rules for SEO and business growth.

What you’ll learn in this episode:

Why it’s more important than ever to understand your website analytics—and how to get started even if you’re not “techy.”

The reality behind declining organic traffic: 60% of searches now end without a click, and 25% of small business site visits have dried up.

How designers can pivot with long-form, authority-building content, FAQs, and real world case studies that set you apart from generic AI content.

The crucial role of backlinks, referrals, press releases, and partnerships for visibility in AI-driven search engines.

The new ways clients search (and find designers) using conversational AI and how you can stay competitive when AI platforms summarize your content for searchers.

Practical tips to reclaim your audience: optimizing your site for both people and machines, getting creative with collaborations, and harnessing ethical digital strategies to protect your brand.

Jenna also shares personal insights from her own Squarespace analytics, breaks down the data from industry sources like Forbes and SuperPrompt, and offers encouragement for designers to get empowered—track their numbers, embrace change, and build authentic authority to thrive in the evolving landscape.

✨ Ready to explore further?

The DAIly – Short, searchable AI training videos and workflows for $29.99/month.

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Tune in for actionable strategies on defending your traffic, amplifying your expertise, and making your voice heard in this new age of search!