Search engine optimization is being upended as generative AI platforms like ChatGPT and Google’s AI Overviews shift online discovery away from traditional website links and towards direct, AI-generated answers. Small and mid-sized businesses now face a new visibility challenge, requiring them to build brand authority, ensure correct data and credibility factors are in place, and appear in the AI’s responses, not just search rankings.
Key Takeaways
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AI chatbots prioritize brand authority and structured data over keyword density.
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Digital visibility now depends on showing up in AI-generated answers rather than at the top of search results.
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SMBs must invest in credibility, schema markup, and multichannel recognition to stay discoverable.
8th & Walton is based in Bentonville: Walmart is our neighbor! Contact us today to set up a free consultation and see what a hometown advantage can do for your company.
