AI search for small businesses
Get your business found by ChatGPT, Gemini, and Google AI
Customers now ask AI for the same things they used to Google: a good electrician, a nearby dentist, a place for lunch. Here’s how to make sure yours is one of the answers, no tech skills required.
- Brushy Creek Coffee, 4.9 ★, known for pastries
- Old Settlers Coffee Co., 4.8 ★, roasts in house your business
- Chisholm Trail Roasters, 4.7 ★, strong cold brew
Example AI response. The businesses shown are fictional.
See where you stand
Does AI already mention you?
- Fill in the boxes below.
- Copy a search and paste it into ChatGPT, Gemini, Perplexity, or Google.
- See if your business comes up, and who else does.
Copy a search, paste it into an AI tool, then read the answer closely.
Who are the best [type of business] near [city or neighborhood]?
I need a [type of business] in [city or neighborhood] that offers [specific need]. Who should I consider?
Compare the top-rated [type of business] in [city or neighborhood] for [specific need].
Didn’t show up? You’re not alone — this is the new era of search.
Want to fix it? Here’s what to do:
- You showed up — check your details are correct.
- A competitor showed up instead — see what they have that you don’t.
- Nobody showed up — work through the quick fixes below.
Start with the basics
Three things to fix first
List each service on its own, name the areas you serve, and make your hours and location easy to find.
Use the exact same name, address, and phone number on your website, Google Business Profile, and every directory you’re listed on.
Answer the questions customers actually ask on your site, and ask happy customers for reviews that mention specifics.
Want more help than this?
We’re adding simple tools to make checking your AI results even easier. Join the free weekly email to hear when they launch.
Let me know when it launchesGuides for your type of business
Find advice for your kind of business
A restaurant, a dentist, and a roofer aren’t found the same way. Pick your industry.
Plumbing, HVAC & electricalEmergency repairs, service areas, pricingView guide →Doctors & dental practicesServices, insurance, patient reviewsView guide →Real estate agentsNeighborhood knowledge, client reviewsView guide →Law firmsPractice areas, experience, consultationsView guide →Accountants & financial advisorsSpecialties, credentials, seasonal demandView guide →Restaurants & cafésMenus, hours, reservationsComing soonGyms & personal trainersClasses, schedules, locationComing soonDon’t see your industry?Tell us which guide you want next.
Simple guides
Learn how AI search works, one step at a time
No marketing background needed.
Start here
How to get your small business recommended by AI
A plain walkthrough of what actually helps a local business get mentioned by ChatGPT and other AI tools.
Quick win
Answer common questions on your website
How to write plain answers to the questions customers ask, so AI tools can use them.
Common questions
Questions small business owners ask about AI search
Are AI search and AEO the same thing?
Related, not identical. AI search is customers asking tools like ChatGPT for recommendations. AEO is the work that makes your business easier for those tools to recommend.
Is this the same as SEO?
They overlap but aren’t the same. Regular search gets your website listed as a link; AI search gets you mentioned inside the answer itself. Clear information and good reviews help both.
How long until AI starts recommending me?
No set timeline, and no guarantees, since AI tools update at different rates. Accurate details, helpful pages, and honest reviews improve your odds over time.
Do I need to hire an agency?
Most owners can handle the first steps themselves. Consider a specialist if you have multiple locations, a large site, or no time to track results.
What if my business has no website?
Start with a complete Google Business Profile and correct directory listings. A website still helps a lot, since it’s the one place you fully control, and is worth building toward.
How much does AEO cost for a small business?
Many first steps are free: correcting your info, improving your Google Business Profile, answering customer questions, and requesting reviews. You’ll only spend money if you choose paid tracking tools or professional help.