5 ways digital marketing providers can help local businesses get found in ChatGPT

People aren’t just Googling anymore. We're all using ChatGPT to make recommendations and help us make decisions - more than any website could ever do.

You’re not the only one ChatGPT as a personal assistant. The platform has approximately 800 million active users a week and is the most used LLM tool in the US.

It’s no surprise that for digital marketing agencies selling to SMBs at scale, conversations with prospects are shifting towards "I want to rank in AI."

This is your opportunity to offer expertise and get your SMB clients noticed by ChatGPT.

1. Optimise local directory listings with AI-friendly descriptions

Work with clients to update their local directory listings so they don't read like they were written years ago. ChatGPT draws from these sources and favours listings with comprehensive, naturally written descriptions.

What to do:

• Rewrite Google Business Profile descriptions to include services, location context, and what makes the business unique
• Update listings on major directories (Yelp, Bing Places, industry-specific directories) with detailed, conversational content
• Include specific problems the business solves rather than just listing services

2. Create comprehensive FAQ pages that answer real customer questions

ChatGPT loves well-structured FAQ content because it directly answers user queries. Most SMB websites either skip FAQs entirely or create generic, unhelpful ones.

What to implement:

• Research actual customer questions (check Google's "People also ask" for your client's services)
• Create detailed answers that include local context
• Structure content with clear headings and natural language
• Cover pricing, process, availability, and local area specifics

Remember that people buy from people. Bringing this up with customers positions you as understanding both customer behaviour and AI optimisation - making your sales reps less salesy and more consultative, justifying your services and getting them over the line.

3. Build local authority through strategic content creation

ChatGPT references businesses that demonstrate expertise and local knowledge. Generic content won't cut it.

Content that gets cited:

• Local area guides (e.g., "Complete guide to bathroom renovations in [City]")
• Problem-solving content specific to local conditions
• Case studies featuring local projects
• Community involvement and local partnerships

Your sales angle: Present this as "local thought leadership" - helping clients become the go-to expert ChatGPT references for their industry and area.

4. Implement structured data markup for local business information

Structured data is more technical, but worth investing time in. It helps AI understand exactly what your client's business does and where they operate.

Essential markup:

• LocalBusiness schema
• Service area definitions
• Opening hours and contact information
• Reviews and ratings markup
• FAQ schema for question-answer content

5. Cultivate high-quality local mentions and partnerships

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Ready to become the AIO expert your SMB clients need?

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