With the introduction of Google’s new product AI Overviews , we wanted to share 5 Small Business tips to capitalise on AI.
The way browsers are now generating results is moving quickly towards AI and you need to position your small business favourably to maximise you being seen in search results.
5 practical tips for small businesses to capitalise on the benefits of Google’s AI Overviews:
Optimise for AI-Friendly Content
Craft short, straightforward answers to frequently asked questions on your site. Google AI surfaces content that’s directly relevant to user queries, so it answers questions like “What services does [your business] offer?” or “How can I book an appointment?”
Maintain Your Digital “Storefront”
With AI Overviews simplifying search results, a strong, up-to-date website serves as a digital storefront, signalling credibility and keeping you competitive online.
Leverage Local Expertise
Emphasise your local knowledge. Google AI favours contextually relevant, community-specific details, so highlighting your local roots can boost your business’s chances of being featured.
Stay Active on Relevant Topics
Consider creating blog posts or service pages around trending or seasonal topics in your industry. Content like “Top Summer Service Tips” or “Guide to Winter Maintenance” can align with customer needs and increase the likelihood of being highlighted.
Strengthen Mobile Usability
Ensure your website is mobile-friendly, as many searches are conducted on mobile. Fast-loading pages with clear, scannable content cater to on-the-go customers and support AI-driven search visibility.
Adam Hargraves, CEO of Localsearch – who is at the forefront of marketing solutions for small businesses – said: “As Google integrates AI Overviews into Search in Australia, we see a valuable opportunity for small businesses to reach and engage with their customers more effectively. This feature, which offers concise summaries directly in search results, gives Australian businesses a new pathway to build visibility. For small businesses, this means that well-crafted, clear content can now have a greater impact by appearing right where customers are searching. Local businesses can take advantage of this shift toward more intuitive, conversational search by addressing common customer questions on their websites.
“This update reinforces the importance of maintaining a well-designed, informative online presence. With AI Overviews now offering customers direct insights, a business’s website becomes even more crucial in positioning them as trusted, relevant sources in their industry. Google’s commitment to connecting users with credible, quality content aligns well with our mission at Localsearch to support small businesses in navigating the digital landscape. We’re excited to see how AI-driven tools can further help local businesses connect and thrive in their communities.”