Today’s search experience is powered more and more by AI tools like ChatGPT and Google AI overviews, which deliver quick, summarized answers right on the results page. As a specialized SEO company for small businesses, we’ve noticed that this shift has led many business owners to worry that local SEO is losing its impact or becoming obsolete.

That said, the truth of the matter is that Local SEO is not dead; it’s evolving! Thus, for staying visible, it is important for businesses to understand how AI is reshaping discovery and how to adapt strategies that go beyond the basics.

In this guide, we’ll cover how to make sure your business ranks for local searches in local packs (3-pack), Google Maps, and on AI platforms like ChatGPT.

Why Local SEO is Still Critical (But Now More Complex)

Even with AI tools like ChatGPT and Google’s AI Overviews giving people quick answers, local searches like “near me” or voice searches on mobile are still very common. People still need nearby services, whether it’s a dentist, coffee shop, or plumber.

What has changed is how they find those services. Thus, the important question now is:

Not just… “Is my business showing up in search?”

But… “Is AI picking my business as the answer?”

That’s why for an effective local SEO strategy, businesses need to focus on what AI tools are looking for: clear info, strong reviews, and local relevance. At Growth Accelerators, we have years of experience in local SEO outsourcing services and have very closely monitored and adapted our strategies in line with the change in the search landscape. If you are looking for a reliable SEO partner, let’s talk.

Effective Steps for Local SEO for AI Platforms

1. Optimize for Google Maps & the Local Pack

These are still the primary surfaces for local visibility. AI tools, including Google AI overviews (formerly SGE), pull information from Google map listings when answering local queries.

Action Checklist:

• Claim and verify your Google Business Profile (GBP): Ensure accurate NAP (Name, Address, Phone) info across the web.
• Use all GBP features: Add services, products, hours, images, and posts. The richer your listing, the more AI can “understand.”
• Get and respond to reviews: Reviews influence both rankings and AI-generated sentiment summaries.

2. Feed AI with Structured, Local-Relevant Data

AI-generated results rely on structured data and credible sources. Ensure AI understands your business’ local intent.

Key Strategies:

• Add Local Business schema to your site: Use JSON-LD markup to clarify name, location, opening hours, reviews, and social links.
• Use location-specific landing pages: If you serve multiple cities or neighborhoods, create optimized pages with unique content.
• Embed maps & driving directions: These signals reinforce relevance for local search terms and help with voice-based answers.

3. Prepare for AI-Driven Local Answers

Google AI Overviews and ChatGPT may answer questions like:

“Best Thai restaurants in Phuket open late”

These AI platforms will consider the top-rated businesses, review sentiment, opening hours, and proximity, and then share a summarized answer directly and may often not show a link.

To Get Picked by AI:

• Earn consistent 4.5+ star ratings: Review volume, credible platform, and recency matter too.
• Optimize for long-tail “near me” queries: E.g., “24-hour HVAC repair in Plano” should have a dedicated page or section.
• Build topical authority locally: Blog about community events, share tips relevant to your location, and earn backlinks from local directories, news, or partners.

4. Think Voice & Mobile First

Voice and mobile searches are on the rise, especially for local queries. Ensure your website is mobile-friendly and optimized for voice search by using natural language and answering common questions directly.

5. Measure What Matters

Focus on metrics that reflect local engagement and AI visibility, such as:

• Local keyword rankings
• Google Business Profile insights
• AI platform mentions
• Conversion rates from local traffic

AI Isn’t Killing Local SEO, It’s Just Raising the Bar

AI is enhancing the way people find local businesses, not replacing it. By adapting your SEO strategy to include AI considerations, you can stay ahead of the competition and ensure your business remains visible in local searches.

How We Can Help

At Growth Accelerators, we specialize in helping small businesses navigate the evolving landscape of local SEO in the AI era. As a leading SEO company for small businesses, we offer tailored strategies that integrate traditional SEO practices with AI optimization techniques. Our team is also part of the network of trusted SEO outsourcing companies in India, providing cost-effective and efficient solutions to enhance your online presence.

This article was originally published on Growacc.com and has been republished here with permission.