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Why Your Business Needs to Show Up in ChatGPT — Not Just Google

  • Writer: Sumi Mun
    Sumi Mun
  • Aug 3
  • 3 min read

How AI Search is Changing Local Marketing (and How to Make Sure Your Business is Found)


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Introduction

Are you still focusing only on Google when it comes to marketing your business? It might be time to rethink your strategy. More and more people are turning to ChatGPT and other AI tools to get personalized recommendations for restaurants, shops, and services. If your business isn't showing up in AI search results, you might be missing out on a huge opportunity.

In this post, we'll explain why appearing in ChatGPT is just as important as Google, and how you can make sure your business gets recommended.



Google SEO vs. AI SEO — What's the Difference?

Google SEO is all about ranking your website high in search results so people can click on your link. It's a battle of keywords, backlinks, and page optimization.

AI SEO (or AIO - Artificial Intelligence Optimization), on the other hand, is about making sure AI assistants like ChatGPT have enough accurate and up-to-date information about your business to recommend you.

When someone asks ChatGPT, "Where can I find the best ramen in Chicago?", it doesn't just pull Google links. It analyzes data from:

  • Google Maps and Reviews

  • Social media mentions (Instagram, TikTok)

  • Blog posts and articles

  • Forums and discussions (like Reddit, Quora)

AI looks for businesses that are consistently mentioned, reviewed, and recommended across multiple platforms.



How to Make Sure ChatGPT Finds Your Business

Here are the practical steps you can take to increase your visibility in AI searches:

  1. Google My Business Optimization

    • Keep your business name, address, phone number, hours, and menu updated.

    • Regularly upload high-quality photos (interior, exterior, dishes).

    • Respond to reviews (both positive and negative).

  2. Content Creation with Local Keywords

    • Write blog posts, guides, and articles that mention your business with keywords like "Chicago Ramen," "Best Ramen Niles," etc.

    • Participate in local forums and answer questions related to your niche.

  3. Social Media Presence (with Location & Hashtags)

    • Post Reels, photos, and stories using relevant hashtags like #ChicagoRamen, #NilesFoodie.

    • Always tag your business location.

    • Engage with local influencers or customers who mention your business.

  4. Be Mentioned in External Articles & Lists

    • Reach out to local bloggers or food reviewers and invite them to try your place.

    • Aim to be included in "Top 10" lists or featured articles.

  5. Keep Your Information Consistent Everywhere

    • Ensure that your business details are the same across Google, Yelp, social media, and directory listings. AI looks for consistency.



Why This Matters for the Future

AI search is not a trend — it's the future of how people will discover businesses. Unlike Google, where people browse through a list of links, AI assistants will give direct recommendations. You want to be the name that comes up.

Businesses that start building their AI-friendly presence now will have a huge advantage over competitors who are still stuck on traditional SEO.



Let’s Make Sure You’re Not Left Behind

At Mun Layers Media, we help businesses not only grow on Instagram and Google but also ensure that AI platforms like ChatGPT have everything they need to recommend you.

Want to get started? Download our FREE 'Restaurant Digital Checklist Package' and start optimizing your online presence today.





Stay ahead of the trend. Be where your customers are looking. The future of marketing is already here — are you ready?

 
 
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