Why Don't I See Search Volume for My Topics?

Written By Tom van den Heuvel

Last updated 20 days ago

This is Normal for AI Search

AI search queries work differently than traditional Google searches:

Traditional Google: "nike running shoes"
AI Assistant: "what are the best running shoes for beginners with flat feet under $150?"

AI searches are:

  • Longer and more conversational

  • More specific to individual needs

  • Lower individual volume, but highly targeted

What the Data Means

Our search volume data comes from aggregated AI platform queries. Low or missing volume doesn't mean a topic is bad—it often means:

  1. Query is highly specific: Valuable but niche

  2. New search pattern: AI users ask questions in unique ways

  3. Data limitation: Our provider doesn't capture all AI searches

Focus on Opportunity Score Instead

The Opportunity score combines multiple factors:

  • Search intent (commercial vs informational)

  • Competition level

  • Relevance to your products

  • CPC value (commercial worth)

A topic with "0" search volume but "High" opportunity can still drive valuable traffic.

Example

Topic: "biodegradable camping soap for sensitive skin"
Search Volume: 20/month
Opportunity: High

This topic has low volume but high commercial intent. The 20 people searching are actively looking to buy, making it more valuable than a high-volume informational query.

Bottom line: Use search volume as one indicator, not the only indicator. Opportunity score is more important for AI search optimization.