How to get found in AI answers, not just Google
Search is changing. People increasingly ask an AI assistant instead of scrolling Google — here's how to make sure your business is part of the answer.
For years, being found online meant one thing: ranking on Google. That's changing. More and more people are asking an AI assistant instead of scrolling a results page — and if your business isn't part of that answer, you're invisible to them.
This is Answer Engine Optimisation, or AEO. Here's what actually moves the needle.
Say things clearly and specifically
AI tools favour content that answers a real question directly. Vague, padded copy gets skipped. Clear, specific answers — what you do, who for, and where — get picked up.
Structure your pages properly
Headings, short paragraphs and plain language aren't just good for readers. They help machines understand what your page is about and when to cite it.
Be consistent everywhere
Your name, address, services and key facts should match across your website, Google Business Profile and any listings. Mixed signals make you harder to trust — for people and for AI.
Earn genuine mentions
Being referenced by other reputable sites still matters. Real relationships, real coverage and real reviews all tell answer engines you're worth surfacing.
None of this replaces good SEO — it builds on it. Get the fundamentals right and you'll show up whether someone types a search or simply asks. That's the game now, and it's one you can win.