The Local Business AI Optimization Checklist
6 Optimization Steps to Get Found in AI Searches
In 2025 we see changes Google algorithm updates focused on user satisfaction,
E-E-A-T ((Experience, Expertise, Authoritativeness, Trustworthiness) principles, combating spam, and integrating AI-generated content.
Key themes for marketers in 2025 include
prioritizing user experience,
creating high-quality and unique content that solves problems, and focusing on
Experience, Expertise, Authoritativeness, Trustworthiness to build credibility.
Here are 6 steps to focus on when optimizing for AI:
Step 1. Structure Your Content for AI
Make your content easy to read and scan.
- Use a strong, clear title.
- Break up sections with headings that sound like real questions.
- Start with a short summary at the top.
- Use bullet points or numbered lists instead of long paragraphs.
Research: Local Falcon tested 60,000+ searches across 20 countries and found that well-structured content (clear headings, short answers) increased the chance of showing in AI Overviews.
Step 2. Embed Semantic Markup
Give search engines extra clues about your content.
- Add “FAQ” labels if you answer common questions.
- Use “How-To” labels for step-by-step guides.
- Make sure your page’s title and description match what people are searching for.
Research: Whitespark’s AI Overview case study found that schema markup (FAQ/How-To) made content more likely to appear in AI summaries for local search queries.
Step 3. Showcase Authority (E-E-A-T)
Show you’re trustworthy and know what you’re talking about.
- Add an author bio so people know who wrote it.
- Link to trusted websites (like news outlets or government sites).
- Link to your own related pages to keep people exploring your site.
- Share reviews, testimonials, or success stories from real people.
Research: HubSpot reports that content showing expertise, credibility, and trust consistently performs better in AI-driven search.
Step 4. Write in an AI-Friendly Style
Use natural, simple language that answers questions clearly.
- Write the way you’d explain something to a friend.
- Give short, direct answers to common questions.
- Add examples or stories so people understand better.
- Use a variety of phrases people might search for, but don’t repeat the same keyword too much.
Research: Over 50% of marketers using AI in content creation stress that natural, conversational style leads to higher engagement and visibility.
Step 5. Enhance User Experience
Make your page easy and enjoyable to use.
- Add images, graphics, or charts with short descriptions.
- Make sure your website loads quickly and works well on phones.
- Add a table of contents on long articles.
- End with a clear call-to-action (like “Contact us” or “Book now”).
Research: Case studies on small business SEO show improvements like faster load times and mobile-friendly design often result in higher search placement.
Step 6. Optimize for AI Summaries & Overviews
Format content so AI can grab quick answers.
- Put a short “quick answer” under each heading.
- Use simple lists (pros/cons, steps, benefits).
- End with a FAQ section that matches how people type questions into Google.
Research: Whitespark found that local queries frequently trigger AI Overviews; content with lists and FAQs was far more likely to be featured.
