What’s Happening on Page One of Google in 2025?

The page is segmented into four distinct areas, all competing for the user’s attention:

1. Google Ads (Paid Listings)

What is it?: These are paid advertisements that appear at the very top of the page, sometimes at the very bottom, and occasionally integrated into the map results. They are marked clearly with a “Sponsored” or “Ad” label.
Location on the page: Always at the top, sometimes taking up the first 1-4 visible spots before any organic or map results.
Why you should use Google Ads: You can get to page one of Google almost immediately

What is it?: This is Google’s newest addition, often appearing right under the ads. It uses Artificial Intelligence (like Google’s Gemini model) to read the information from the top-ranking websites and provide a concise, comprehensive answer to the user’s query—for example, a summary of what to look for in a Calgary stucco contractor and perhaps a list of top-rated ones.
Location on SERP: Usually near the top, above the maps or the main organic results.
Why you need to be in the AI overview: The AI often cites and links to the sources it pulls information from, meaning your primary SEO goal is to have your website be one of those cited sources.

What is it?: This is a crucial section for local businesses. It’s a box that displays a map of your city and highlights three top-ranking local businesses directly underneath it, along with their Google Business Profile (GBP) details (ratings, address, and phone number).
Location on the page: Typically the most prominent block of local information, appearing just after the AI Overview.
Why you need to be in the maps: People that are physically near you, or at least in your corner of the city are searching for your services. Key factors include:
- Proximity: Being physically close to the person searching.
- Relevance: Having a profile that clearly states they are a “stucco contractor.”
- Prominence: Having a high number of positive, recent reviews.

What is it?: These are the traditional blue links to websites that Google has determined are the most relevant and authoritative on the topic. For a local search, these are typically the websites of the local businesses themselves, plus directories like HomeStars or Yellow pages.
Location on page: Appears below the Local Pack and continues down the page.
Why you want to be found in the organic listings: Many people that are searching for you services will skip through the ads, AI overview, and map listings to view the organic listings. The goal is to get your website into the Top 10 positions to secure the majority of click-through traffic.