The way people search for information online is changing. More and more users are turning to AI tools like ChatGPT to ask for recommendations on products, services, or businesses. Instead of searching on Google and browsing multiple pages, users now ask directly: “Which company do you recommend in my city?” or “Where can I hire digital marketing services?”
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This creates a new opportunity for businesses: appearing in AI-generated answers. Although ChatGPT doesn’t work exactly like a traditional search engine, it does rely on publicly available information on the internet to generate recommendations. That’s why strengthening your digital presence can increase the chances of your business being mentioned.
How ChatGPT decides which businesses to recommend
Unlike Google, ChatGPT doesn’t display ranked lists of links. Instead, it generates answers based on publicly available information such, as:
- Well-ranked websites
- Specialized content
- Mentions in media or blogs
- Reviews and online reputation
- Business directories
- Structured business data
The stronger your online presence and authority, the more likely your business is to appear in AI-generated responses..
1. Have an optimized website with useful content
The first step remains the same as traditional SEO: a well-optimized website with high-quality content..
Pages that clearly explain what services you offer, where you operate, and who you serve are more likely to be used as references by AI tools.
Helpful content includes:
- Detailed service pages
- Blog articles answering common questions
- Practical guides related to your industry
- Case studies or completed projects
For example, a digital marketing agency in Las Palmas can publish articles about SEO, online advertising, or social media targeting local businesses.
2. Work on SEO and digital authority
Even when talking about AI, SEO still matters. Many AI models rely on sources that already have strong authority online.
To improve your visibility:
- Optimize your website for search engines
- Use keywords related to your services
- Get backlinks from relevant websites
- Publish updated content regularly
The higher your website authority, the greater your chances of being referenced in AI responses.
3. Be present in directories and business profiles
AI systems also rely on data from business directories and review platforms.
It’s important to maintain complete profiles on:
- Google Business Profile
- Professional directories
- Review platforms
- Professional social media
These profiles help confirm your business’s existence, location, and services.
4. Take care of your online reputation
Customer reviews influence how your business is perceived online. Companies with positive ratings and active engagement generate more trust— or both users and AI systems analyzing that information.
To improve your digital reputation:
- Ask satisfied customers for reviews
- Respond to comments and feedback
- Keep profiles updated
- Display real testimonials on your website
This strengthens credibility and visibility.
5. Use structured data on your website
An increasingly important strategy is implementing structured data (schema markup). This helps search engines and AI systems better understand your business information.
You can structure data such as:
- Business name
- Location
- Services offered
- Contact details
- Customer ratings
This makes it easier for AI systems to interpret what your business does and where it operates.
6. Create specialized content that answers questions
Many AI queries are question-based, such as:
- “What is the best digital marketing agency?”
- “Where can I hire SEO services in Gran Canaria?”
- “Which company can help with online advertising?”
If your website contains content that directly answers these questions, it increases the likelihood of being used as a reference.
The new concept: AEO (Answer Engine Optimization)
Beyond traditional SEO, a new approach is emerging: AEO (Answer Engine Optimization). This focuses on optimizing content so AI systems and answer engines use your information directly.
This involves:
- Clear, well-structured content
- Direct answers to common questions
- Industry authority
- Strong digital presence
Businesses that adopt this strategy early will have a competitive advantage.
Conclusion
AI tools like ChatGPT are transforming how users discover businesses and services. While there is no direct way to “pay” or manipulate recommendations, it is possible to increase your chances of appearing in AI-generated responses through a solid digital strategy.
By focusing on SEO, online reputation, specialized content, and overall digital presence, your business can gain visibility not only in search engines but also in AI-driven platforms.
For companies aiming to stand out online—especially in local markets like Las Palmas de Gran Canaria— adapting to these new systems can make a significant difference in the years ahead.
