How to Get Your Website Found in Google AI Search

The 30-second check most websites skip

If your website isn't showing up in Google's AI search features, there is one setting in Google Search Console worth checking today. It takes about 30 seconds and costs nothing.

AI-generated answers are now a regular part of how people search. When someone in Chattanooga asks Google for a plumber, a salon, or a good barbecue spot, they may see an AI summary before they see a single traditional link. You want your business to be part of that answer, not left out of it.

What the Search Generative AI setting does

In Google Search Console, under your property's Settings, there is a section called Search Generative AI. It controls whether Google includes your site's links and content in its generative AI search features.

When it is set to Include, your site can show up in those features as a link, and your content can help ground the AI's responses. Google describes this option as a way to maximize your site's visibility there. If yours is set to Exclude or Neither, you have not opted in.

How to check it in Search Console

Here is the whole process:

1. Sign in to Google Search Console.

2. Click your website property.

3. Scroll down to Settings.

4. Click Search Generative AI.

5. If it is set to Exclude or Neither, select Include.

6. Confirm the setting now reads Include.

If you manage more than one website, each one is its own property, so repeat the steps for each.

Why local businesses should turn it on

If you want customers to find you, there is little reason to opt out of a place where they are already searching. Generative AI features are part of Google Search now, and this setting is how you tell Google your site is welcome there.

For a local business, that matters. A potential customer asking for the best option in town might get an AI-generated answer first. Being included gives your site a chance to appear as a link in that answer and to bring in traffic from it.

What this setting will and won't do

Switching to Include tells Google your content is available for these features. It does not guarantee that your site will appear, or that your traffic will jump overnight.

Showing up still depends on the fundamentals:

• A fast, mobile-friendly website

• Clear pages for each service you offer and each area you serve

• A complete, accurate Google Business Profile

• Content that answers the questions your customers actually ask

Think of this setting as removing one possible roadblock. The rest of the work is still yours to do.

Want a second set of eyes on your site?

Check the setting, switch it to Include, and give it time. If your website still isn't getting found the way it should, Chattanooga Local can help with websites, local SEO, and AI search visibility for local businesses.

Visit gochattanoogalocal.com to get in touch, and watch the quick video above to see exactly where to click.