Why Your Business Isn’t Showing Up in AI Search Results (and How to Fix It)

From my experience as a professional website designer of over 16 years, if you’ve searched for your business on Google lately and couldn’t find it, especially in the new AI-generated results, you’re not alone. The way people search online has changed, and based on what I have seen lately over the past few months, if your website and online presence haven’t kept up, it’s likely you’re being left behind.

Keep reading, and ill break down what’s happening with Google’s new AI search, why it matters for your business, and how you can start showing up where it counts, with my help if you need it.

What Is Google’s AI Search (SGE) and Why Does It Matter?

Google recently rolled out its Search Generative Experience (SGE), a new AI-powered search feature that shows users instant answers right at the top of the page. Instead of listing websites in order, SGE summarizes answers in natural language and includes a few recommended links underneath.

Here is why that is a really big deal:

• Many users never scroll past the AI summary.

• Businesses without optimized websites or content may be excluded.

• If your competitors are showing up in these results and you aren’t, you’re missing potential leads that could be using YOUR service instead of theirs.

SGE favors content that directly answers search queries, especially from trusted sources. If your site isn’t positioned as helpful, relevant, and easy for Google to understand, you’re likely to be skipped.

Why Your Business Might Be Missing from AI Results

Even great businesses can get overlooked in AI search results. Here are a few common reasons:

• No website (just social media or a Linktree page): Google favors real websites with structured pages and original content.

• Outdated or slow websites: If your site is poorly designed or takes too long to load, it gets deprioritized.

• Missing or incomplete Google Business profile: This hurts your local visibility.

• No content that answers user questions: SGE prefers sources that educate, not just advertise.

• Lack of credibility signals: No backlinks, reviews, or local citations.

To put it plainly, If your site isn’t giving Google enough helpful content, SGE won’t recommend you, even if your business is great, or even the best option. Many business owners think having a website is enough, but Google’s AI is looking for websites that clearly answer questions, load quickly, and show expertise in their industry.

How Google’s AI Picks What to Show

SGE analyzes the intent behind a user’s search and selects the most relevant content to generate a helpful, human-like answer. It looks for:

• Structured content with clear headings

• Pages that explain concepts or answer questions

• Business websites with strong local signals and positive reviews

• Trusted sources with credibility across the web

  
  

In short, it pulls from sites that demonstrate both value and authority.

5 Ways to Fix Your Website and Start Showing Up

I cover this in a separate article on my website in more detail, but here are 5 key ways to make sure your business appears in Google’s new AI-powered search results:

1. Create or Upgrade Your Website

You need a fast, mobile-friendly website that clearly communicates what your business does, who it serves, and how to contact you. A modern, well-structured site is your foundation for visibility.

2. Write Content That Answers Questions

Google’s AI pulls answers from pages that provide real value. Start a blog that addresses your customers’ most common questions:

• “Do I need a website if I already use Instagram?”

• “What should a wellness coach include on their homepage?”

• “How much does a small business website cost in Philadelphia?”

  
  

Each blog post helps Google see your business as an expert in your niche. This is very Important!

3. Add an FAQ Section to Your Website

Include frequently asked questions on your homepage, service pages, or a dedicated FAQ page. Google often uses this content in its AI-generated summaries.

4. Optimize Your Google Business Profile

Make sure your profile includes:

• A clear description of your services

• Updated contact information and hours

• Location tags and service areas

• Customer reviews that mention your service types

  
  

5. Build Credibility Across the Web

List your business on relevant directories like Yelp or industry-specific platforms. Reach out to satisfied clients for Google reviews. If possible, get mentioned on local blogs or small publications to build backlinks.

How I Help Small Businesses Websites Show Up in AI Search

As a UX designer and AI consultant, I help small businesses design websites that are not only beautiful but also built for visibility. My work focuses on helping clients create search-ready websites that align with how people—and now AI—search online.

For example, after launching a new website for a local wellness studio, the business started receiving more inbound inquiries from people searching for services in their area. The key wasn’t just the design. It was the strategy behind how we structured their pages, added relevant content, and optimized their local listings.

If you're unsure where to start, I can help you assess what’s missing and build a site that works for today’s search environment.

Let’s Make Sure People Can Find You

If your business isn’t showing up in search, it’s not a reflection of your quality—it’s a signal that your web presence needs attention.

I offer free consultations for my clients to:

• Review your website and online presence

• Explain how Google’s AI search works in your industry

• Give you specific recommendations you can act on immediately

  
  

Here's How You Don't Get Left Behind

Most businesses don’t realize they’re invisible in AI search until it’s too late. Let’s change that for you right now.

Its easy. Start with a free, no-hassle, 15-minute visibility check. If you need a deeper audit of your website and search presence, I offer a full diagnostic session with step-by-step recommendations to guide you through the process personally. I'm here for you, so lets take your business to the next level with your website optimized for AI search, and the future.

[Start With a Free Visibility Check]