Is There a Future in SEO? A Deep Dive into the Concerns and Realities
Introduction: Is SEO Still Worth Learning in 2025?
With AI and automation transforming digital marketing, many professionals are questioning the future of SEO. One Reddit user recently raised this concern, asking whether learning SEO is still valuable in 2025 or if it’s becoming obsolete. The responses from industry experts and SEO veterans offer a mix of caution, encouragement, and insights into how SEO is evolving.
This article analyzes that discussion, offering expert opinions and actionable insights to help digital marketers navigate the uncertain landscape of SEO.
Reddit Post: The Concern About SEO’s Future
 |
| reddit seo |
A Reddit user who has primarily worked in paid search (PPC) asked whether SEO is still worth learning in 2025. Their dilemma:
“I have mostly done Paid Search all my life but now thinking to learn SEO to improve my skill set. My only concern is SEO worth learning in 2025 with AI & automation taking over? Is it rewarding to learn it since then I would be proficient in Full Search (SEO & SEM), or is it something I can skip to invest my time in something better?”
This concern reflects a broader industry trend—many professionals are uncertain about SEO’s future due to AI-generated content, evolving search algorithms, and the increasing role of automation.
Expert Responses: What SEO Professionals Say
SEO is More Content-Driven Than Ever
 |
| reddit seo |
One of the most upvoted responses came from Bill Hartzer, an SEO veteran since the 1990s:
“SEO now is very content-heavy. It’s not just about putting keywords in title tags and mentioning a keyword on a page. The sites that are doing well now are those that understand content, how to organize it, and the importance of entity SEO. AI and automation help SEOs be more efficient, but they won’t replace SEO jobs.”
His response underscores a major shift in SEO—moving beyond traditional keyword optimization to structured content and entity-based SEO.
AI Changes Search, But Not the Need for SEO
 |
| reddit seo |
Another insightful response came from Ranchojasper, who pointed out that AI still relies on content:
“Think of it this way—AI pulls from online content to generate answers. That means brands that consistently create authoritative content will still have an advantage. Instead of just optimizing for links, focus on creating the most authoritative content on your topic.”
This perspective highlights a new SEO strategy: optimizing content for AI-generated search responses.
SEO Requires More Technical and Strategic Skills
 |
| reddit seo |
One of the most detailed and insightful responses came from Joiiygreen, who advised taking a technical approach to SEO:
“It’s worth learning SEO. If you do, go deep and learn the technical side. SEO developers are the best combination because they can diagnose and fix real site issues. Learn Core Web Vitals, database optimization, and how to improve site speed.”
He also emphasized integrating SEO with PPC:
“Use your SEM experience to integrate SEO pages into marketing funnels. Show how SEO increases conversion rates (CVR) and improves ad auction performance.”
His response highlights that modern SEO is more than just content—it’s also about technical optimization and strategic digital marketing.
SEO Isn’t Dying, But It’s Harder
 |
| reddit seo |
A blunt yet insightful comment from Laurentbourrelly addressed the misconception that SEO is becoming irrelevant:
“SEO is not dying. Only weak SEO professionals quit or complain. Google is still ultra-dominant in Search. Doing multimedia is harder than text, but AI helps us create better content. If you’re ambitious enough to rank first and stay there, SEO is worth it.”
His take reflects a broader industry sentiment—SEO is still valuable, but the competition is tougher.
The Impact of AI on SEO: A Double-Edged Sword
 |
| reddit seo |
Not everyone in the discussion was optimistic. BrandonJoseph10 raised concerns about AI-generated content reducing the need for traditional SEO-driven websites:
“AI is taking over the information flow, not the product or service flow. I can’t buy shoes from AI, but I can ask AI for recommendations. Websites providing basic info might lose relevance as AI answers those queries directly.”
This highlights a major challenge—informational websites must now offer more than just basic content to remain competitive.
The Future of SEO: Key Takeaways
✅ SEO is Shifting, Not Disappearing
While AI and automation are changing how search engines work, they are not eliminating the need for SEO. Instead, SEO professionals must focus on:
Entity-based SEO (understanding topics and relationships between content)
Technical SEO (site speed, structured data, Core Web Vitals)
Authoritative content (becoming a recognized expert in your niche)
✅ AI is a Tool, Not a Replacement
AI can help automate content creation and analysis, but human expertise is still required for strategy, optimization, and relevance. As JohnCasey3306 put it:
“AI and automation will change but not eliminate the human role.”
✅ SEO and PPC Should Work Together
Rather than seeing SEO and PPC as separate disciplines, digital marketers should integrate them. Joiiygreen’s advice on using SEO to improve paid search conversion rates is a smart approach.
✅ Brand Authority Will Be the New Ranking Factor
With AI-generated search results pulling from existing content, brands that create the most authoritative, trustworthy content will have an edge. Ranchojasper emphasized this shift:
“Instead of links, focus on owning the most authoritative content on your topic.”
Final Verdict: Is SEO Still Worth Learning in 2025?
The consensus from experienced SEOs is clear: SEO is not dying, but it is evolving. AI and automation are changing how SEO works, but professionals who adapt and embrace new strategies will continue to thrive.
If you’re considering learning SEO in 2025, focus on:
Deep content strategy (entity SEO, topic authority)
Technical SEO (site speed, indexing, structured data)
AI-assisted optimization (leveraging AI tools without relying on them)
Brand and reputation building (becoming an industry authority)
As long as people use search engines, SEO will remain relevant. The real question is: Are you willing to evolve with it?
What Do You Think?
Do you believe SEO will still be a valuable skill in the next five years? Share your thoughts in the comments below!
Additional Resources:
Author Bio
Akin Makr is an experienced digital marketing research specialist. With a decade of experience in covering digital marketing realities as they unfold to provide actionable insights on how to stay ahead in the evolving technological landscape. Connect on Linkedin