When you are searching on the internet for a local bakery, photographer or even a website designer you are no longer just searching just on Google anymore.

The search engine is also looking at AI.

People are searching phrases like:

• “Affordable website designer in ottawa”
• “Local photographer for weddings”
• “Gluten free bakery near me”
• “Showit website creator for small businesses”

Instead of scrolling through pages of search results, AI provides a curated list of recommendations in seconds.

The question almost all small business owners are asking is:

How do I make sure my business is the one getting recommended?

The good news: You don’t need a massive marketing budget, you need to become a business that AI trusts.

AI Doesn’t Recommend Businesses Randomly

AI platforms look for signals that show your business is real, helpful, and is well-established online.

Think of it this way:

Google ranks websites while AI recommends businesses.

The businesses that consistently appear across trusted sources are much more likely to be suggested.

Build a Website That Actually Answers Questions

Many small business websites spend most of their time talking about themselves. While it’s important to explain who you are and what you do, today’s customers—and AI—are looking for answers.

Instead of simply saying:

“We bake delicious cakes.”

Create pages and blog posts that answer the questions your ideal customers are already typing into Google or asking AI assistants.

For example:

• When should I order my wedding cake?
• Do you offer gluten-free or vegan desserts?
• How much does a birthday cake cost?
• What’s the difference between buttercream and fondant?

Every helpful page gives AI another opportunity to recommend your business when someone asks a related question.

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2. Clearly Define What You Do

One of the biggest mistakes businesses make is using broad marketing phrases that sound nice but don’t actually explain their services.

For example, instead of saying:

“Crafting spaces where memories are made.”

Be specific about what you offer.

Example:

Landscaper

• Lawn Maintenance
• Garden Design
• Interlock Installation
• Snow Removal
• Seasonal Cleanups

The more clearly you describe your services, the easier it is for AI to connect your business with the people looking for exactly what you offer.

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5. Publish Helpful Content Consistently

You don’t need to publish every week, one thoughtful, well-written blog post each month can have a lasting impact.

Make a list of questions customers would ask everyday when searching and answer those questions in blog posts.

Here are a few examples:

HVAC Company

• Why is my air conditioner blowing hot air?
• How often should I replace my furnace filter?
• Should I repair or replace my furnace?

Helpful content builds trust with potential customers while also giving AI more context about your business. What is nice is this content can be used on your social media also.

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8. Stop writing like a robot.

Try avoid using vague marketing buzzwords when possible.

Instead of saying:

“Delivering innovative customer-focused solutions.”

Say something your customers actually understand.

For example:

• “We create custom wedding cakes for couples across Ottawa.”
• “We photograph growing families in natural, outdoor settings.”
• “We provide same-day plumbing repairs for homeowners in our community.”

Clear, natural language is easier for people to read and easier for AI to understand.

The simpler and more specific your message, the more likely it is to match the questions people are asking.