When it comes to being found online, Google has always been the main player. But things are changing. More and more people are turning to AI tools like ChatGPT to find recommendations, get answers – and yes, even discover businesses. So, how can you make sure your website shows up where it matters?
Search is evolving
Traditionally, if someone wanted a local builder, web designer or café recommendation, they’d ask Google. Now, people are asking ChatGPT instead:
“Find me a builder near Southampton who does extensions.”
“What’s the best recruitment company in Hampshire?”
And ChatGPT is answering based on the information it’s been trained on, and the sources it trusts.
But it’s not magic.
Just like Google, ChatGPT doesn’t make things up (well, not intentionally…). It pulls from websites, reviews, directories and articles that are publicly available. If you’re not showing up in those places, it’s a lot harder for ChatGPT to recommend you.
So, how do you get your site noticed by both?
Get listed on trusted sources
ChatGPT often pulls business info from places like:
- Your own website
- Google Business Profile
- Yell, Thomson Local, Yelp
- Trustpilot, Checkatrade, Houzz (if relevant)
- Directory pages and local listings
Having consistent, detailed listings on these sites boosts your chances of being seen by both AI tools and traditional search engines.
Make your website clear and search-friendly
ChatGPT and Google both favour websites that are well-written, informative and properly structured. That means:
- Clear content about what you do and where you do it
- Proper use of headings, page titles and metadata
- A blog (like this one!) that answers common questions in your field
- Mobile-friendly, fast-loading pages
Build a bit of authority
The more other sites mention or link to yours, the more trusted you’ll appear. That can mean:
- Getting featured in local press or blogs
- Encouraging happy clients to leave online reviews
- Sharing helpful content on social media or in industry groups
Stay current
Google loves fresh content. ChatGPT prefers up-to-date info too, especially when integrated with live data from the web. Keep your content updated, add new projects or testimonials, and avoid letting your site go stale.
Think like your client
Both search engines and AI respond best when your site speaks your customers’ language. Avoid jargon. Write how you talk. And answer the questions people are actually asking.
It’s not just about Google anymore
This isn’t about choosing Google or ChatGPT, it’s about showing up wherever your customers are looking. The way people search is changing, and your website needs to keep up. By building a clear, trustworthy and well-optimised online presence, you’ll be ready for whatever (or whoever) they ask next.
And if you need help making sure your website is up to scratch, you know where to find us!
