Do you know that offline stores or local businesses can get listed in AI overview search results by implementing AI SEO?
What is AI SEO?
Recently, you may have noticed AI overviews in Google search, people using Perplexity on Airtel phones for free, and more AI-related news making headlines.
While AI-based information discovery is still evolving, it is clear that it will soon become a preferred way for people to find information. The good news: Google Business Profiles, citations, and websites remain the cornerstones of AI information discovery too.
Optimizing your business presence for AI chat interfaces is called GEO (Generative Engine Optimization), also known as AI SEO. As AI-powered search results gain traction, AI GEO will help ensure your business is visible on new platforms that AI tools utilize to present information.
How to Rank Your Local Business in AI Overview Results ?
With AI-based search features like AI overviews gaining popularity, ranking your business in these results requires a different approach compared to traditional SEO.
Here are some AI SEO tips to help your business rank in these AI-driven search results:
1. Optimize Your Google Business Profile for AI
Your Google Business Profile (GBP) is crucial when it comes to ranking in AI overviews. Ensure that your business name, address, and phone number (NAP) are consistent across all platforms. Add high-quality images, a detailed description, business hours, and services, as these elements are often pulled by AI interfaces to give searchers a quick overview of your business.
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Tip: Keep your business information updated regularly, as AI tools rely on fresh and accurate data to provide the best recommendations.
2. Use Localized Structured Data (Schema Markup)
Structured data helps search engines understand the details about your business, such as location, services, and reviews. Using local business schema markup ensures that search engines and AI systems like Google’s AI overviews can easily find and display your information.
Tip: Implement the LocalBusiness schema on your website to improve visibility in local search results. Tools like Google’s Structured Data Testing Tool can help verify that your data is correctly structured.
3. FOCUS on Natural Language Keywords
With the rise of AI-based search tools, traditional keyword optimization is evolving. AI systems are becoming more adept at understanding natural language queries. Instead of relying on short-tail keywords like “best bakery in Bengaluru,” focus on long-tail, conversational keywords like “where can I find the best bakery near MG Road in Bengaluru?”
Tip: Incorporate natural-sounding phrases and questions that your customers are likely to ask when interacting with AI tools.
4. Build Local Citations and Reviews
AI overviews often pull data from reviews, citations, and local directories. Ensuring your business is listed on reputable local directories and maintaining a strong presence on review platforms (like Google, Yelp, or Justdial) will help AI systems pull your business into relevant local search results.
Tip: Encourage your customers to leave detailed reviews, and respond to them to show that your business is active and engaged in the community.
5. Create High-Quality, Informative Content
AI systems use content relevancy to determine which businesses to feature in search results. Make sure your website has content that answers local customers’ questions and provides valuable information about your products or services. Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs) and detailed blog posts can increase the chances of your content being selected for AI overviews.
Tip: Create localized blog posts or guides addressing common queries your customers have. AI tools love content that answers real questions in an easily digestible way.
FAQs
1. What is GEO and why does it matter?
GEO (Generative Engine Optimization) is optimizing your business to appear in AI-powered search results (like Google AI Overviews, Google AI Mode and Perplexity). This is the future of information discovery.
2. What is Google doing for AI search
Google has rolled out AI overview some time back. Recently it has launched “AI Mode” also in India.