From SEO to AEO: How Local Businesses Can Win AI Search Today

What Happened\n\nBoardroomPR’s Director of Digital Marketing, Mara Gordon, sat down with CityBiz to discuss the shift from traditional SEO to AI‑Engine Optimization (AEO). She explained how generative‑AI models like ChatGPT, Gemini, and Google AI are changing the way consumers find local businesses.\n\n## Key Details\n\n- **AI‑Search is now the default**: 70‑80 % of searches are processed by AI assistants that pull data from a curated knowledge graph.\n- **AEO vs. SEO**: AEO focuses on structured data, conversational intent, and rapid content generation rather than keyword density alone.\n- **Citation is king**: Consistent NAP (Name, Address, Phone) data across directories is still the foundation, but now must be machine‑readable.\n- **Local relevance matters**: AI tools prioritize the closest, most relevant business with the best user‑experience score.\n- **Voice & visual search**: 45 % of local queries are voice‑based; 30 % include images or maps.\n\n## What It Means For Your Business\n\n1. **Invest in structured data** – JSON‑LD, schema.org, and Google Business Profile updates are non‑negotiable.\n2. **Build conversational content** – FAQs, how‑to guides, and short answer snippets that answer the most common questions in your niche. For example, a local bakery could list “What pastries are available today?” as a quick answer.\n3. **Maintain accurate citations** – Use a citation management tool to keep all listings synced.\n4. **Optimize for voice** – Short, location‑centric answers that fit 4‑5 second spoken responses. Say, “We’re at 123 Main St, open 8 am–8 pm.”\n5. **Leverage AI‑powered tools** – Use AI to draft meta tags, generate blog outlines, and analyze competitor AEO signals. Tools like Surfer SEO or Clearscope can help craft concise snippets.\n\nBy aligning your digital presence with AEO principles, you position your business to appear in the AI‑assistant’s answer box, the \"Featured Snippet\" carousel, or even the new AI‑generated local business card.\n\n### Quick Action Checklist\n- [ ] Verify Google Business Profile accuracy.\n- [ ] Add JSON‑LD schema for services, products, and reviews.\n- [ ] Create a 10‑question FAQ page targeting local intent.\n- [ ] Optimize page speed and mobile usability.\n- [ ] Run a local AI‑search audit using tools like BrightLocal or SEMrush.\n\nIn short, the transition to AEO is not optional—it's the next step in staying visible when customers ask, \"Which coffee shop is closest to me?\"