Great question! I've been experimenting with AI for blogging for a while now, so here's what I've learned:
On-page SEO with AI:

DO: Use AI for keyword research, title optimization, meta descriptions

DO: Generate content outlines and structure

DON'T: Rely purely on AI for content - Google can detect it

DON'T: Skip human editing and fact-checking
Off-page SEO:
Honestly, this is where you still need human strategy. AI can help with:
- Finding link opportunities
- Writing outreach emails
- Creating linkable assets
But relationship building and actual link acquisition? That's still very much a human game.
My recommendation:
Start with AI for content creation + on-page optimization, but invest in learning off-page SEO yourself or hiring someone with a proven track record. The "professional services" in this space are hit-or-miss unless you're spending serious money.
Pro tip: Whatever AI tool you use, always run the content through originality checkers and add your own insights/experiences. Pure AI content rarely ranks well long-term.
What niche are you planning to blog in? That might affect the strategy.