Artificial intelligence is redefining online customer discovery in 2025, and SMEs that move quickly stand to capture significant market share. Kent-based SEO and AI optimisation agency Level Up Leads is enabling small and medium-sized enterprises to secure top-tier placement in Google’s AI Overviews and ChatGPT’s recommended results, driving a surge in quality leads.
In contrast to traditional SEO, where high placement on Google Search results pages was the key objective, AI-powered platforms like Google AI and ChatGPT now play a critical role in guiding purchasing decisions. These tools recommend specific businesses based on signals of trust, relevance, and established authority.
For SMEs, the stakes are high: failure to adapt could lead to reduced visibility, while embracing AI optimisation offers the chance to become the first business customers encounter during their buying journey.
Why AI Recommendations Are a Game-Changer for SMEs
When a user searches for a service in 2025 – whether that’s “best accountant near me” or “top landscaping company in Kent” – Google AI or ChatGPT often summarises the answer and names specific businesses as trusted options.
These recommendations aren’t random; they’re driven by data, content quality, reviews, online authority, and location relevance. Level Up Leads specialises in positioning SMEs so they’re the ones being recommended. This involves:
- Optimising content for AI platforms so it’s clear, relevant, and structured in a way AI understands.
- Building authority signals through backlinks, press coverage, and citations that AI algorithms recognise as trustworthy.
- Embedding local SEO strategies so that when AI looks for nearby businesses, clients are the first choice.
- Adding technical SEO enhancements like schema markup to help AI platforms identify services and location quickly.
- Analysing AI search patterns for their industry and location.
- Creating content and assets that directly answer high-intent search queries.
- Building credibility signals such as 5-star Google reviews, consistent NAP (Name, Address, Phone) data, and mentions in reputable online publications.
- Integrating AI-focused SEO alongside traditional Google optimisation, ensuring visibility in both search and AI Overviews.
- Get ahead of competitors still focusing solely on traditional search rankings.
- Reach customers faster by appearing in the exact moment they’re ready to buy.
- Build trust instantly by being endorsed by leading AI platforms.
- Future-proof their marketing as AI adoption continues to grow across industries.