How Google's AI Overviews and AI Mode Are Transforming Local SEO (and What Small Businesses Need to Do Now)

What’s Happening?

AI Overviews now pop up at the very top of search results, giving users a neat, AI-written answer before they even scroll. AI Mode takes it a step further, providing detailed, chat-style answers that often mean searchers don’t click anywhere else.

Here’s the catch: nearly 40% of searches with AI Overviews—and over 90% of AI Mode searches—end without the user visiting another site. This means fewer clicks to your website, even if you’re doing “everything right.”

Why This Matters for Local Businesses

Your potential customers might be getting all the info they need directly from Google’s AI, without ever visiting your site. That’s why the new Local SEO game isn’t just about ranking, but rather getting cited in AI answers.

If you want to stay visible in the AI era, here’s what you can do: 

1. Be the Source Google Quotes
   
   • Answer common customer questions clearly and concisely on your site.
   • Use FAQs, bullet points, and headings to make your answers AI-friendly.
2. Max Out Your Google Business Profile
   
   • Keep your info up to date.
   • Add fresh posts, photos, and respond to reviews regularly.
3. Think Beyond “Near Me” Searches
   
   • Create content for “how” and “why” questions, not just location-based ones. AI Overviews tend to show up more for these.
4. Spread Your Visibility
   
   • Combine Local SEO with content marketing, reputation management, and even paid ads to make sure your name shows up across channels.

Maldonado Communications Can Help

Navigating these shifts requires expert guidance and sophisticated strategy. We specialize in Local SEO, Google Business Profile optimization, content creation, and reputation management, specifically designed for service-based businesses in their early-growth phase (up to $500K revenue).

Now is the time to future-proof your Local SEO strategy. Book a consultation today to learn how Maldonado Communications can ensure your business remains visible and competitive in Google's AI-driven search landscape.