AI assistants like ChatGPT, Bing Copilot, and Google Gemini are rapidly changing the way people discover local businesses. Instead of searching Google and sifting through links, more users are simply asking questions like:
- "Where can I get my tires changed nearby?"
- "Best sushi in Ocean City?"
- "Who fixes AC units in Peoria on Sundays?"
So how do these AI platforms know what businesses to recommend? Can you list your business on ChatGPT like you can on Google or Yelp?
Here’s what you need to know.
Can You List Your Business Directly on ChatGPT?
Short answer: No, not directly.
ChatGPT (and similar tools) don’t have a place to manually submit or claim a business listing like you would on Google Business Profile or Yelp. Instead, these AI models pull from a mixture of data sources, including:
- Public websites (your website!)
- Online business directories (like Google, Yelp, Bing, TripAdvisor)
- Aggregated datasets (like Localeze, Foursquare, and others)
- Schema.org structured data on business websites
When a user asks about a local service, the model uses its training data and (when browsing or plugins are enabled) current online information to generate a response. That means the best way to be "listed" in ChatGPT is to make sure your business is highly visible across the web.
What You Can Do to Show Up in AI Tools
To increase your odds of being recommended by AI tools like ChatGPT, Bing Copilot, or Google Gemini, take these steps:
1. Optimize Your Google Business Profile (and Bing!)
Google is still the most referenced data source for local search. But don't forget about Microsoft's close ties with OpenAI/ChatGPT. Ensure your profiles are:
- Claimed and verified
- Consistent with your business hours, services, and address
- Regularly updated with photos, posts, and Q&A
2. Get Listed on Major Directories
AI models lean on trusted sources. Make sure you're listed on:
3. Add Structured Data to Your Website
Use schema.org markup on your website to identify your business name, hours, phone, location, reviews, services, and service area. This helps AI and search engines understand and trust your content.
4. Maintain Consistency Everywhere
Your business name, address, and phone number (NAP) should be exactly the same across all platforms. Inconsistencies reduce your chances of being referenced correctly.
5. Get Reviews Across Platforms
AI-generated responses often factor in review volume and quality. Ask happy customers to leave reviews on multiple platforms.
6. Build a Strong, Local Web Presence
Maintain an informative website with clear service descriptions, local keywords, and helpful content. AI tools use public web content as a signal of authority.
What You Can’t Control
While you can improve your chances, you can’t guarantee inclusion or ranking in AI answers. These models:
- Don’t show full directories or lists unless asked
- Might generate incorrect or outdated answers
- May rely on limited data depending on the user’s query or device settings
This is why it’s important to maintain accurate info across multiple platforms and keep your content fresh.
The Future: AI Discovery Is the New SEO
More users will rely on conversational AI to discover businesses instead of searching traditionally. That means:
If your business is visible and trustworthy across the web, AI will have a better chance of recommending you.
Final Tip: Think Like a Customer
What would you ask an AI assistant if you needed your own service?
- Try asking ChatGPT, Bing Copilot, or Gemini the types of questions your customers might use.
- See what businesses show up.
- If it’s not you, follow the steps above.
