Navigating the New Search Landscape with Chris Ferris, PhD
In this insightful session, Chris Ferris, PhD, will explore the rapidly evolving world of search and its implications for digital strategy. As Google Search Engine Results Pages (SERPs) become increasingly crowded, driving organic traffic has never been more challenging. Chris will break down key trends impacting visibility, including the rise of long-tail keywords, the shift toward zero-click searches, and how AI and large language models are reshaping the SEO landscape.
He’ll also examine the growing influence of social media and YouTube as search tools, and explain a critical shift in strategy: understanding that Google serves demand—it doesn’t create it. This underscores the rising importance of public relations in driving demand and becoming a reliable source for AI-generated answers.
Key Takeaways:
- Understand how modern search behavior is evolving
- Learn why high-quality, relevant content is still king
- Explore how to integrate AI tools into your strategy
- Harness the power of social media and YouTube for discovery
- Discover how PR can drive demand and strengthen your search presence
About the Speaker
Chris Ferris, PhD, is the Senior Vice President of Digital Strategy at Pierpont Communications, a premier public relations and marketing firm focused on helping organizations grow and protect their brands through data-driven PR.
A trusted digital strategist and educator, Chris teaches graduate-level digital marketing to MBA students at Rice Business and has successfully led organizations through digital transformations involving SEO, online advertising, generative AI, and customer engagement. His background spans branding, lead generation, public relations, and social media, with a proven track record in delivering results.
Chris holds a Master’s in Communication from the Annenberg School for Communication at the University of Pennsylvania and a PhD in Health Policy from the University of Texas Health Science Center at Houston. He has been married for 25 years and brings both personal and professional depth to every conversation.
Event Details
📅 Date: Friday, May 9th
⏰ Time: 11:00 AM - 1:00 PM
📍 Location: Trinity University, Lunch is included!
AMA-Members: $30
Non-AMA Members $45
Students: $20
We can’t wait to see you there!
RSVP today and secure your spot!
