Big news dropped this week. ChatGPT is now running ads.
If you have been paying attention to AI search trends, this should not come as a total surprise. But it is a big deal for small businesses and marketers who have been wondering how AI companies plan to make money.
Why This Matters
For the past two years, AI search has been free. Users ask questions, get answers, and never click on anything. This has been great for users but terrifying for businesses who rely on search traffic.
Now ChatGPT is showing ads alongside answers. That means:
- Your competitors can bid on keywords related to your business
- AI search results are starting to look more like Google
- The rules of SEO now apply to AI platforms too
What This Means for Small Businesses
If you run a local business or offer services, you need to pay attention to a few things:
First, your business information needs to be accurate everywhere. AI platforms pull data from directories, reviews, and websites. If your NAP (name, address, phone) is inconsistent across the web, AI might show wrong information about you.
Second, you need to answer questions directly. AI search rewards businesses that provide clear, helpful answers. If someone asks “best coffee shop in Portland,” the AI will recommend businesses that have clear, detailed information online.
Third, reviews and citations matter more than ever. AI pulls heavily from review sites and business directories. The more quality citations you have, the more likely AI is to recommend you.
Check out our practical guide to optimizing for AI search for more detailed tips.
The Bright Side
Here is the thing. Most small businesses have been slow to optimize for AI search. That means there is an opportunity here.
While your competitors are still worrying about traditional Google SEO, you can get ahead by:
- Claiming your business on all major directories
- Adding FAQ sections to your website
- Making sure your service pages answer common questions
- Getting more reviews on Google, Yelp, and industry-specific sites
The Bottom Line
AI search is becoming more like paid search, but the organic opportunities are still wide open. Businesses that optimize now will have a advantage as more AI platforms start showing ads.
The key is simple. Be helpful, be accurate, and be everywhere.
Want to see how your business shows up in AI search? Try our free AI Search Optimizer tool.
Need help figuring out how to show up in AI search results? That is exactly what we do.
