1. Your Google Business Profile
It is free and it is the single biggest factor for "near me" searches and the map. Google's own AI answers draw heavily on it too. Get it verified, pick the right category, list your services and service areas, add real photos, and post an update now and then.
2. Reviews, little and often
Ask every happy customer for a Google review. A steady trickle beats a burst once a year, and replying to every review, good or bad, shows you are active.
3. The same details everywhere
Your business name, phone number and website should be written exactly the same on your website, Google, Bing, Apple Maps, Yelp, Facebook and any directory. Mismatches make search engines and AI less sure you are who you say you are.
4. Bing, Apple Maps and Yelp, for the AI answers
ChatGPT and Microsoft Copilot lean on Bing and on review sites like Yelp for local recommendations, and Siri uses Apple Maps. Claim free listings on Bing Places, Apple Business Connect and Yelp. It takes an afternoon and most of your competitors have not done it.
5. A website that answers the questions people ask
- Say plainly what you do, where, and roughly what it costs.
- Give each main service its own page, and name the towns you cover.
- Answer common questions in plain sentences. AI assistants quote clear answers.
- Add structured data so search engines understand your business, services and prices.
- Make it fast on a phone, with one clear next step: call, book or buy.
6. Mentions from other websites
Local news, suppliers, your chamber of commerce, clubs you sponsor and the people you work with. Each genuine mention or link tells Google and AI that real people know you.
Short on time? Do 1, 2 and 4 this week. They are free and they move the needle fastest. Then make sure your website does number 5.
Every site we build is set up for 5 from day one, and our Brightest care plan handles your Google Business Profile, local SEO and monthly content for you.
Questions people ask us
How do I get my business recommended by ChatGPT?
Claim free listings on Bing Places, Apple Business Connect and Yelp, keep your name, phone and website identical everywhere, collect reviews, and make sure your website states clearly what you do, where and for how much.
How long does it take to show up on Google?
A verified Google Business Profile can appear on the map within days. New website pages usually take a few weeks to start appearing for local searches, and longer for competitive terms.