Advice Local recently launched our new AI optimization tool, the AI Presence Amplifier, to help agencies, local marketers and platform partners take control of the stories that answer engines (AE) and AI summaries tell about their client businesses. For AI optimization and generative engine optimization (GEO), structured data consistency is vital for search visibility. So how can the AI Presence Amplifier help your clients show up in search? Let’s take a look.

How to Use GEO to Boost Clients’ AI Search Visibility

Many of the foundational principles used in local SEO are also at the heart of generative engine optimization (GEO). This is great news as it shows that SEO isn’t dead, and with our latest AI tool, agencies and local partners can help improve their clients’ visibility in AI-initiated searches.

See Businesses the Way the Biggest AI Platforms See Them

Whether consumers use ChatGPT (currently the most popular AI platform), Google Gemini, Microsoft CoPilot, or Perplexity, you can gain access to see what the AI robots “see” about client businesses online. For a client’s business to be found online in generative AI search, you need to know what data exists about each business.

Tackle Citation Inconsistencies

The AI Presence Amplifier presents an AI Publisher Score (APS) as a percentage. The APS is your starting point to find out what business data needs to be updated. By reviewing accuracy across seven attribute categories, you can see what data is missing, consistent or inconsistent, and make a request to our team for updates. A business with consistent data across multiple AI platforms will have higher trust scores and authority, leading to a greater likelihood of it being surfaced when consumers search.

Publish and Structure Great Content

Strong, relatable, authoritative content still remains at the top of the AI search food chain. Consumers want clear answers to their AI-based searches. Create content that meets standard Google EEAT requirements, and ensure that guidelines for on-page structure and off-page technical details are followed.

Regular updates to web pages, blogs, social media and directories (Google Business Profiles, Bing Places, etc.) are still vitally important too. And even here, consistent content across platforms is important for AI to “read” and return that information to searchers.

Are Your Clients Found in Generative AI Search Infographic

Learning about the shift in local SEO and GEO doesn’t have to be difficult. With incredible tools like the AI Presence Amplifier, its APS, and helpful, bite-sized information like this infographic, you can glean what you need to know to ensure your clients show up in AI-based searches. Share this infographic to help other leaders and team members get up to speed. Our partners with active listings management services can easily request a demo of the new AI Optimization tool via your account manager.

How #AI Optimization Boosts #Search Visibility #Infographic by @BernieColeman #SEO
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Get to Know Our AI Presence Amplifier GEO Tool

Get a look at client data consistency across AI platforms like ChatGPT and Google Gemini for yourself with Advice Local’s AI Presence Amplifier. Be prepared for the next wave of AI enhancements by unifying relevant business information and finding out where improvements can be made. Request a demo today, or call us at (214) 310-1356  to get started.

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At Advice Local, we’re always cooking up something to help our agency and local marketing partners stay ahead of the game in local search. Today, we’re excited (and proud!) to add an AI tool to our product offering.

Meet AI Presence Amplifier, our newest AI tool. This new tool features an AI Publisher Score (APS) that helps you understand a business’ data available on large language models (LLM) and AI. Another important feature of this product is that our AI tool will correct the business’ data via API or manually, depending on what is needed. In essence, AI Presence Amplifier analyzes and optimizes the business’ data.

It’s important for our agency partners to understand how their local business clients are performing in desktop, mobile search, and the AI answer engines. This is where our latest solution, AI Presence Amplifier, comes in.

Meet Advice Local’s Newest AI Tool – AI Presence Amplifier

Now, to keep you ahead of other agencies and keep your clients satisfied with how you’re tackling AI and bringing in more sales, let’s review the new Advice Local product, AI Presence Amplifier. We are currently in alpha testing, so there will be updates and changes. You’ll need to request a demo to get a peek at the new AI tool. If you are a current platform partner, please contact your account manager to participate in the alpha testing.

What Does Advice Local’s AI Presence Amplifier Tool Do?

Within your partner dashboard, you can see a business’ visibility percentage based on how consistently its structured data appears across generative AI chatbots, via the aforementioned AI Publisher Score (APS).

This score is based on how much of a business’ data is complete, correct, and structured to meet the demands of traditional and generative search.

For the first time, we’ve applied a dynamic scoring algorithm to AI visibility, calculating a score only against the data that’s available or detectable at scan time. This means the score evolves as more business attributes are surfaced, corrected, or structured for AI engines.

Up to now, consistent data in search engine results pages (SERPs) and directories has been the major key. And in addition to those listings, data must be consistent in any and all sources that AI chatbots utilize (and there are many). This means the data currently returned can be mismatched.

How You Get Access to AI Presence Amplifier in Your Partner Dashboard

AI Presence Amplifier is for businesses with active listing management within your partner dashboard. This product is an add-on to our listing management services, which ensures that businesses are easily found online through the most important directories, data aggregators, GPS and mapping apps.

For those wishing to participate in alpha testing, access already exists within your easy-to-use partner dashboard. The report generates just like the listing management Baseline report. When a scan is completed, so is the AI scan.

From your partner dashboard you’ll be able to select the AI tab to review the business’ APS score. For businesses with inconsistency issues, you simply go to the order screen to place the order. The cost is $10 per business per month (for any business with active listing management).

The Chatbots AI Presence Amplifier Searches

During alpha testing, Advice Local AI Presence Amplifier tool reflects the data from ChatGPT, Gemini, CoPilot and Perplexity. We will soon add Grok, which is integrated into X (formerly Twitter). These are the most used AI chatbots, and in the case of Gemini and CoPilot, they are integrated into their search engine counterparts. They touch so many aspects of traditional search, like Google Business Profiles and Bing Places.

Business Attributes AI Presence Amplifier Monitors for Consistency

AI Presence Amplifier checks seven attributes. These are aligned with other markers within Advice Local tools for consistency. These attributes are flagged as “Consistent,” “Inconsistent,” or “Missing.” See the categories below.

1. Description
2. Location/Business Name
3. Address
4. Phone Number
5. Website
6. Primary Category
7. Secondary Category

How AI Presence Amplifier Helps Local Businesses

AI Presence Amplifier helps your agency detect and resolve misrepresented citations before they cost your visibility and the trust of your clients. From missed phone numbers to wrong business categories, every issue is flagged and resolved via API or manual request, right inside your dashboard. And as with each of our tools, it makes it easy to make multiple corrections, saving time, money, and ultimately keeping clients happy.

Generative AI, GEO (generative engine optimization) and AEO (answer engine optimization) are here, they are the next evolution of SEO. They are not a trend to prepare for, they are the current reality we work within. Too many organizations don’t see what information about them is available to consumers, and they are suffering for it.

AI-generated answer snippets in SERPs may contain (and for many organizations, do contain) incorrect data. This frustrates consumers and costs businesses potential customers, clients, patients and patrons. AI Presence Amplifier helps you identify, organize and unify data, ensuring a consistent experience no matter what avenue someone uses to search.

Generative engine optimization (GEO) is no longer optional. AI engines are transforming the way customers discover and choose local businesses. AI Presence Amplifier equips you to control how a business appears across the AI landscape, rather than leaving it to chance. At Advice Local we pride ourselves on remaining up-to-date (and often ahead of the curve) to provide our partners, agencies and local marketers with the tools that make us all succeed.

With the search and AI advancements that occur almost daily, this AI tool will help you to further take control of a business’ data when and where users are searching the most.

If you are a current Advice Local partner, please email your account manager to learn more about getting access to our new AI tool.

Meet Our New AI Tool That Cleans & Corrects Business Data by @BernieColeman #SEO
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Get Advice Local’s New AI Product, AI Presence Amplifier, Today

We know you’re excited to see how this new tool from Advice Local will help your agency serve your local business clients. To learn more, request a demo if you’re new to Advice Local’s products, or call us at (214) 310-1356. For platform partners, please contact your account manager to learn more.

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Generative AI is the hot topic across industries, including speculation and testing within digital marketing. Even with its rapid development, rest assured that building on a solid foundation of SEO basics like clean citations, reputable listings management, and a focus on local intent will keep your clients at the top of search and answer engine (AE) results.

Before we look at specific examples of intent-centered optimization, let’s review some recent AI and local search numbers to help you get inside the heads of today’s consumers.

How AI Changes Local Search by the Numbers

Despite rumors to the contrary, SEO is not dead—and even with the rapid advances of AIs like ChatGPT, neither is Google search. According to a recent study from Bright Local, the new technology is used in tandem with traditional search, and consumer adoption rates vary generationally. Here are some of the statistics.

• 10% of Gen Z thinks of ChatGPT as their main search platform.
• 40–60% of searches conducted by a quarter of respondents have local intent.
• 85% find contact information and open hours “important.”
• 42% consider proximity (near me searches) to be “important.”
• 20% conduct local searches directly in maps.

So SEO isn’t going anywhere for the time being, as consumers regularly make multiple searches a day. We also see many people making decisions with immediacy or how soon they intend to visit in mind for location-based businesses. In order for your clients to be found in these AI searches, their businesses must be optimized for traditional and AI-initiated search queries.

The AI Local Search Consumer Experience Breakdown

Search intent and the consumer journey are vital parts of the AI local search experience. Consumers use generative AI products like ChatGPT, Gemini and Perplexity similarly to the way they use voice assistants. They ask multiple questions, building upon initial answers to learn more. AI local search is conversational.

To make sure your clients show up in these conversations, think about how a consumer searches and what they’re seeing. Let’s look at an example from ChatGPT.

Here’s a primary query for the “BEST” local mobile groomer. It’s probably no surprise that ChatGPT returns pictures, even one with a review. But it also contains a description longer than the ones seen on Google or Bing SERPS, one compiled of data gleaned from multiple sources (more on that below). This means that traditional local search tactics like pictures with alt text and fresh reviews can get you far in AI search. For many of the people surveyed, if this description was favorable, they would stick with ChatGPT to ask more questions.

As the consumer continues their questions, “what services do they offer?” makes sense. They need to know if the provider offers what they need. The information is simple and easy-to-read. For this data to be found and to keep the consumer following breadcrumbs to your clients, it must exist in your owned and social media.

Having service pages with easily-read on-page content and code that’s crawlable by AI robots is imperative. For instance, let’s say our consumer likes what they see and will choose this provider—now they’ve got to contact them.

When tasked with finding contact information, ChatGPT returned the phone number, website, email address, service area and social media channels. The example is a mobile-based business, as location-based businesses would also include the physical address. This varied contact information allows the consumer to engage the business however they need to.

So what does this mean for local marketers and agency partners? They must simply continue to place value on listings management and directory placement for their clients. How do we know this? We have two more images for you from ChatGPT.

We asked ChatGPT to show the sources for the data it returned about our example client, and whether it looked at any directories to return contact information. ChatGPT prioritized “official and authoritative” sources like the website, service pages and social media, which we mentioned. We’ll wrap up with a focus on listings management, directories, and the importance of consistency and trust.

In this example, the BBB, Google Business Profile, Yelp and the pet vertical were part of the vast directory network deemed trustworthy by ChatGPT to return the client data in our search.

In brief, having accurate, consistently-updated names, addresses and phone numbers (NAP data) available in those directories is vital to your clients’ success.

Yes, we do talk about this all the time, as it’s the basis upon which we build so much more. Whenever clients make a change to any of their data, it has to be updated properly across channels. Listings management takes care of this. Any inconsistencies here can keep your clients out of search results, whether it’s traditional or AI search.

Google, Bing, and the various answer engines are looking for trust signals and citation consistency in directories in addition to synced operating hours, service areas and helpful, engaging content. We’ll continue to talk more about this, so stick with Advice Local to learn more, maintain client satisfaction and stay ahead of the game.

How #AI Is Changing Local #Search by @BernieColeman #SEO
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Get Knowledgeable Local Search Support and Tools for AI Search

Advice Local continues to provide the tools and tracking to keep our agency partners and local search marketers in the know when it comes to generative AI advances. Get to know more about how we can support you. Request a demo or give us a call at (214) 310-1356.

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If there is any constant in ranking factors for local SEO, it’s that Google, Bing and all the search engines will always have changes. While SEO best practices like monitoring reviews and keeping accurate citations with trusted listings management services will never go out of style, this is tech, so priorities will shift when new apps, integrations and advances emerge. It’s the mid 2020s, so let’s review what’s changed in local search so you can keep your technology and your clients up-to-date.

The Ranking Factors That Influence Local SEO

We usually receive annual updates to local SEO ranking factors in a report once due diligence, testing and professional surveys are completed. However, this information is based on data originally published in 2023, and minimally updated in late 2024 on the Moz blog.

Google Business Profile

The importance of a correctly managed Google Business Profile (GBP) cannot be overstated in local search results. While these verified business listings contain multiple pieces of information about the business, the three most important are as follows: choosing the most authoritative web page from a website for the main URL on the listing; selecting the most relevant categories (up to 10) for the business; and if possible, including a search term within the business title.

We often talk about how vital a verified and well-managed GBP is, and will continue to provide tips to give our agency partners the edge in local search.

Reviews

Reviews across multiple platforms and from various sources continue to impact Local Pack/Finder rankings. Reviews are a valuable trust signal and will always matter to consumers and search engines alike—staying on top of them is vital to a business’ online success.

Agency partners with active listings management accounts have access to Advice Local’s incredible free Review Monitoring Tool. This allows a bird’s-eye view of multiple review sites in one convenient dashboard, making it easy to pull reports and send information to clients. Client engagement with reviews (positive and negative) can encourage a continuous cycle of new reviews, as potential patrons see the business actively interact with past reviewers.

Gaining new written reviews through an owned website, Google Business Profile, and third-party websites (especially from sites and people with authority) is a relevant signal search that engines cannot ignore.

Citations

Real estate has location, location, location, and for local search it’s citations, citations, citations! No matter how often we talk about consistent, high-quality citations as a foundation for good local SEO, it will never be enough. When it comes to structured citations and clean NAP data, sending to relevant distribution channels can make a difference, as the quality and relevance of the platforms that list client businesses absolutely matters.

This is why ongoing listings management is truly necessary for the businesses that local marketers serve. Citations management has to be a strategic part of any local SEO plan.

On-Page Local Signals

Optimized, quality content that meets technical and grammatical standards is always going to help your website, and makes for a much better user experience. When it comes to local ranking factors, providing solid, authoritative information on locations pages is vital.

Location pages work in conjunction with GBP in search, making it easier for potential customers to find client businesses near them. Setting up these location pages with consistent, visible NAP data including service areas, featured products and services, along with having clear calls-to-action will set your location pages apart. When internal links are used well, this keeps customers on a site, and on a journey once they land there. Take care in creating these pages to see improvements in client rankings.

Off-Page Local Signals

As mentioned above, authority makes a difference. Websites and pages that meet the on-page factors listed above and that have great reviews are more likely to have authority. But off-page local signals coming into client sites from authoritative third-party links will affect rankings too.

Realize that link-building is still alive and well—and these links should be from entities relevant to the business or news sites. These links need anchor text that makes sense, hopefully including key search terms. These links should also come from diverse sources.

These are a few of the most important local search ranking factors that a business needs to consider. Keep in mind that every industry also has distinct factors affecting their rankings. Pinpointing which factors make the most impact on specific businesses is best accomplished by using tools like the suite available through Advice Local.

Best Ranking Factors for Local #SEO by @BernieColeman
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Get Your Clients’ Listings Optimized for Local Search

Get all the tools you need to move your clients’ rank higher in the local pack, maps and organic search. Advice Local’s all-in-one dashboard can improve your agency’s services today. Request a demo or call us at (214) 310-1356.

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At Advice Local, we are all about providing our agency partners with the best tools to manage their clients’ Google Business Profile (GBP), and our enhanced Google Business Profile Tool is one of them. Once a client’s GBP is verified, you can utilize our solution to monitor it. For instance, our GBP tool keeps a client’s data synced to maintain NAP integrity over time, keeps out bad data with auto reject public edits and more.

Access to these incredible tools from one user-friendly dashboard is another reason to complete the Google Business Profile verification as quickly as possible. But first, let’s dive into the process.

Methods for Verifying a Local Business on Google Business Profile

If you have already created a Google Business Profile for the business, let’s dig into verification methods. If the business is not yet on Google, add it now. And if it hasn’t been claimed yet, take the time to do it. Claiming a business on Google is essential to manage the data and have favorable local search results.

1. Google Business Profile Video Verification

Video verification is the most common verification method Google requires. While the response is speedy, this method often demands that business owners record multiple items to prove their legitimacy. Businesses with a physical storefront, businesses that are service-based (or are what Google calls “hybrid”) can use this method.

What You Need to Know About GBP Video Verification

• As an agency, unless you physically go to a client’s location, you will not be able to complete the verification for the business.
• The video must be recorded from within the Google Business profile on a mobile device and be a continuous shot, as no editing is allowed.
• The person recording will want to have all the documentation prepared in advance and have a plan for the shoot.
• Address it like making a storyboard. Having all the proper information and required shots pre-planned will lead to faster verification.
• Remember, this may need to be done twice, so keep track of what’s being done.

Verification requirements are based on the type of business but always cover three main categories.

• Proof of Location
• Existence
• Management

Ways to show proof include recording storefront and street signage, the street address on the building’s exterior, nearby businesses or landmarks and entry areas. Additional proof can come from a showroom or dining area, work areas with desks or workstations, business cards displayed and so on. You can also provide proof through a business name on permanent fixtures such as tools or a work truck, a service location, access to official business documentation like permits, and management access to a point-of-sale system. For more details and to learn about Google’s categories, review their video verification help page.

After the video is recorded and submitted, Google typically responds within five days with a message indicating “successful” or “unsuccessful.” If the verification is not successful, the message will state why, and offer another chance to get it right.

2. Verify a Business’ GBP by Phone, Text or Email

Verification on Google Business Profile by phone, text or email remains a simple way to get the job done. From within the profile, a manager chooses to receive a PIN via phone call or text message. Once received, it’s just a matter of inputting the number.

Email is just as simple. From the profile, select email verification and follow the instructions provided within the response. Within a short time (up to five days) it’s complete and done!

What You Need to Know About This GBP Verification Process

• This option is not available for all businesses.
• If verifying by phone, Google will call the number listed within the GBP.
• If verifying by text, Google will send the message to the number listed with the GBP.
• If verifying by email, the email address needs to be a branded domain that matches the website URL listed on the GBP.

3. Get a GBP Verified With a Live Video Call to Google

Similar to video verification, managers will want to prepare before initiating the live video call. They’ll need to show proof of location, the business or equipment, and management.

• From the profile, access the verification menu from a phone with a camera. Follow the listed steps to connect to an associate.
• During the call they’ll ask for video proof that could include the area around the location (like other businesses and the street name), marketing materials, tools or equipment, and access to employee-only areas or information.
• After the call, a waiting period of up to five days begins. At the end of that time, Google will notify the manager whether the verification was successful or not.

4. Google Business Profile Verification by Mail

If two weeks isn’t too long to wait, local business verification by mail is still available (and at times required).

• From the Google Business Profile, request a postcard for GBP verification.
• Make sure the mailing address is correct and request the code. Avoid making any address changes while waiting for a response, as processing time could be extended.
• When the postcard arrives, simply input the code into the proper section on the correct profile.

Again, Google will respond within five days with a message indicating success or failure.

After Verification, Monitor Local Maps Rankings With Our Help

Once the business’ Google Business Profile has been verified you’ll want to continue monitoring it, and this includes tracking map rankings in Google Maps and the local finder. Advice Local’s Google Maps Local Rank Tracker tool can assist with this task.

How to Speed Up Google Business Profile Verification by @BernieColeman #SEO #GBP
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Help Clients Navigate the Google Business Profile Verification Process

Now that you know how to speed up the Google Business Profile verification process, it’s time to see more about how Advice Local can help you better service your local business clients. Call us at (214) 310-1356 or request a demo now.

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