AI search is becoming one of the fastest growing ways for people to discover local businesses. More customers are starting their search by asking an AI assistant instead of typing a query into Google. This means your visibility now depends on more than traditional SEO or directory listings. You also need to be understood and recognized by the major AI platforms.
The AI Visibility Rankings section shows how well your business appears in responses from leading AI models. These platforms include ChatGPT, Gemini, Claude, Perplexity, and Grok. Each one can answer questions like “best bakery near me” or “top landscaping services in Toronto” by combining website content, directory data, review signals, and other public information.
In this section, you will see sample search questions for your business category. Next to each question, you will see small business icons representing which companies the AI platform surfaced. This gives you a clear sense of whether your business is appearing, whether competitors are showing up instead, and what gaps you may need to close to become more visible.
If your business does not appear in these results yet, do not worry. Most visibility in AI tools comes from the same signals you build through GEO and SEO improvements. This includes having complete directory listings, matching profile information, active Google Business Profile details, consistent data across platforms, and strong review activity. The more connected and consistent your online presence becomes, the more likely AI tools will start to recognize and surface your business.
The AI Visibility Rankings also help you understand the difference between SEO and GEO. SEO relates to your website content and structure. GEO relates to your business information, listings, and reviews. AI tools merge both types of information to create their recommendations. When your GEO and SEO signals work together, your chances of appearing in AI results improve significantly.
Use this section to track progress over time. As you fix issues, add listings, raise your review count, and follow your improvement suggestions, you should expect to see your position in AI results strengthen. Over time, these improvements help you become discoverable across both traditional and emerging search methods.
In the next article, we will look at Competitor Analysis and show you how to compare your online presence with similar businesses in your area.