Google’s AI Mode Has Arrived… Are You Ready?

The future of local search results has already arrived… but have you prepared your business for it? Over 50% of users are now using Google’s AI mode instead of regular old Google search. That means your business might be missing from the search results altogether if you haven’t taken steps to optimize your Google Business Profile and all around social presence for AI search results. Google’s even put AI mode onto the Google home page now, so this is definitely not going away. Since this is such a significant development in the local SEO world, we've compiled a list of our top 3 expert tips to stay ahead of these major new changes.

Jul 7, 2025

The future of local search results has already arrived… but have you prepared your business for it? Over 50% of users are now using Google’s AI mode instead of regular old Google search. That means your business might be missing from the search results altogether if you haven’t taken steps to optimize your Google Business Profile and all around social presence for AI search results. Google’s even put AI mode onto the Google home page now, so this is definitely not going away. Since this is such a significant development in the local SEO world, we've compiled a list of our top 3 expert tips to stay ahead of these major new changes.

How to Optimize for Google’s AI Mode:

  1. Become a YouTuber: YouTube videos are commonly used in the plain old normal search results, but now they are being cited heavily in the AI mode results. Make sure you’re uploading videos to your YouTube channel (and create one if you haven’t yet!!!) to show Google that your business is more engaging and better than your competitors. Our Paige AI can automate this for you.
  2. Check Your Citations: Business listings from directories such as Yelp, BBB and TripAdvisor are regularly cited in AI results when a user searches for a local business. Not only does your business need to be listed on these directories, you need to make sure the listing has all the correct info (name, address, phone number) as well. Paige automates this too.
  3. Post on Social Media: We already know Google is using social media accounts to learn about your business, so it’s no surprise that AI mode will be looking at it as well. Make sure to regularly post updates on all social platforms like Facebook, Instagram and LinkedIn (ask how we can help with this!) and add the links to your GBP! You guessed it.. Paige automates this too!

If you want your GBP to show up in AI mode search results, you’re going to need to do more than just optimize your GBP, you’ll need a completely optimized presence online. AI mode is pulling info from all over the place looking for the businesses that have it all. Follow these tips and you’ll be at the top of the AI mode results in no time!


If handling all that stuff seems like too much work then you have to check out our fully automated GBP optimization AI, Paige, which also covers social media posting and citations! Start your trial today for only $1!‍

About Author

Justin Silverman

Justin Silverman founded Merchynt in 2019 and led the company's vision to become the world leader in Google Business Profile optimization and local SEO services.