The Future of Search Is Here — and It’s Different
One of our clients recently asked us a great question:
“How is AI changing SEO and Google Business listings?”
It’s an important topic because search is evolving at lightning speed. Gone are the days when Google simply returned a list of blue links. Today, many search results are topped with AI-generated answers — and that changes the game for businesses.
What AI-Generated Answers Mean for Your Website
AI results are designed to give searchers an instant answer — which can mean fewer clicks going to traditional websites. Instead of scrolling through search results, users may get the summary they need without ever visiting a page.
This shift doesn’t make websites irrelevant — but it does mean your website needs to be even more valuable, relevant, and trustworthy so that AI considers it a credible source of information.
Local Search & Google Business Listings Are Affected Too
Local businesses are also feeling the impact. When Google shows AI-powered summaries for local searches, fewer people may click through to your Google Business listing.
But here’s the good news:
- Reviews, photos, and accurate details matter more than ever. AI tools pull from these data points to generate their answers.
- Engagement helps you stay visible. Regular updates, fresh photos, and consistent information tell both Google and AI that your business is active and trustworthy.
What Business Owners Should Do Right Now
If you want your business to thrive in this new search environment, focus on these steps:
- Keep Your Google Business Profile Updated: Make sure hours, services, and contact info are always accurate. Add photos regularly.
- Create Helpful, Relevant Content: Blog posts, FAQs, and service pages that answer real customer questions are gold for SEO and for AI-powered search.
- Think Beyond Google: Build a strong brand presence across multiple channels — social media, review sites, and industry directories. The more visible and credible your business is, the more likely AI is to include you in its answers.
SEO Isn’t Dead — But It Is Changing
Instead of focusing only on “ranking on page one,” the goal is now to make sure your business is part of the data sources AI relies on. This means consistent information, high-quality content, and a strategy that goes beyond just keywords.
Let Big Splash Help You Stay Ahead
At Big Splash Web Design & Marketing, we stay on top of the latest search trends so our clients stay visible and competitive. From Google Business optimization to SEO content strategies, we can help ensure your business shows up where your customers are searching — even in the age of AI.
