Many businesses rely on Google or Bing to attract visitors to their websites, but the way people search for information is changing. More users are now turning to AI-powered tools like ChatGPT, Copilot and Perplexity instead of traditional search engines.
Instead of typing short keywords like "best accountant near me," users now enter detailed questions into AI tools.
"I'm looking for an accountant who specialises in tax planning for small businesses in Melbourne."
AI search results don't just list websites - they summarise answers based on what they find online. If your business isn't providing detailed, well-structured information, it may not appear in AI-generated responses.
Why AI Search is Different from Google
AI-powered search tools process information differently than traditional search engines.
- Context matters: Instead of ranking websites based on keywords, AI tools analyse full questions and search intent.
- Fewer links, more summaries: AI search often presents answers directly instead of displaying long lists of websites.
- AI processes more than just text: Unlike traditional search engines that rely mainly on written content, AI-powered search can analyse voice queries, images and videos to deliver more diverse search results.
Optimising Your Website for AI-Driven SEO
If you want your business to appear in AI-generated search results, here are key updates to consider.
1. Make Your Website Content More Detailed
- Answer common customer questions clearly on your website.
- Use structured data to help AI tools process and categorise information.
- Provide detailed service descriptions - AI prioritises websites that explain who they serve and what they offer.
2. Shift from Keywords to Conversational Search Phrases
- AI tools prefer complete questions over short keywords.
- Optimise content to include industry pain points, client needs and contextual information.
- Keep service pages clear, location-specific and client-focused.
3. Strengthen Trust Signals & Online Presence
- Collect public reviews on Google Business and industry directories.
- Ensure your website includes pricing details, FAQs and/or a support page - AI frequently references these when summarising business offerings.
- Make sure content sounds human, as AI tools favour authentic, trustworthy writing. Don't copy and paste directly from ChatGPT!
4. Consider AI Search Beyond Traditional Text-Based Queries
- AI-powered search is expanding beyond text - voice and image searches are becoming more prominent.
- Ensure images and videos on your website include clear metadata, alt text and captions.
- Format content for quick readability, making it easier for AI tools to extract relevant information.
What This Means for Your Business
SEO in 2025 requires a wider focus than just ranking in Google - it’s now also about appearing in AI-powered search results where users are looking for specific answers and recommendations.
If your website was built more than a year or 2 ago, it may be worth reviewing your SEO strategy to ensure your business remains visible in both traditional search engines and also AI-driven queries.
Contact WebSolutionZ to discuss how we can optimise your website for AI-powered search.
