GEO Optimization: How to Get Your Business Featured in Google’s AI Overviews
If you’ve searched Google recently, you’ve noticed something different. At the top of many results now sits an AI-generated summary—Google’s answer to your question before you even click a link. Welcome to the era of Generative Engine Optimization (GEO), and it’s reshaping how local businesses in Orlando get found online.
What Are Google AI Overviews?
Google AI Overviews (formerly Search Generative Experience) use AI to synthesize information from multiple sources and present a direct answer to search queries. Instead of the traditional ten blue links, users now see a conversational response with citations to source websites.
For Orlando businesses, this is both an opportunity and a challenge. The opportunity? Being cited as a source in an AI Overview puts your business at the very top of search results. The challenge? Fewer users may scroll down to traditional organic listings.
Why GEO Matters for Orlando SEO
At Orange Rock Media, we’ve been tracking AI Overview appearances across industries. Here’s what the data shows:
- Healthcare queries frequently trigger AI Overviews (medical practices, dental offices, urgent care)
- Service-based businesses are increasingly featured for “best [service] in [location]” searches
- How-to and informational queries almost always display an AI-generated response
If your Orlando business relies on local search traffic, optimizing for GEO isn’t optional anymore—it’s essential.
How to Optimize for AI Overviews
1. Structure Content for AI Consumption
AI systems prefer content that’s clearly organized and fact-dense. Structure your pages with:
- Direct answers in the first paragraph
- Clear H2 and H3 headers that match common search queries
- Bullet points and numbered lists for scannable information
- FAQ sections at the bottom of service pages
2. Establish E-E-A-T Signals
Google’s AI prioritizes sources that demonstrate Experience, Expertise, Authoritativeness, and Trustworthiness. For local businesses, this means:
- Author bios with credentials and local expertise
- Case studies from Orlando-area clients
- Local citations and directory listings
- Original photography of your work (not stock images)
3. Target the Right Keywords
AI Overviews appear most often for informational and commercial investigation queries. Instead of just targeting “Orlando dentist,” optimize for:
- “How much does [service] cost in Orlando?”
- “Best [service] near downtown Orlando”
- “What to look for in an Orlando [service provider]”
- “[Service] vs [alternative service] Orlando”
4. Build Topical Authority
AI systems favor websites that cover a topic comprehensively. Create content clusters around your core services:
- Pillar page: Your main service offering
- Supporting articles: Related topics, common questions, comparisons
- Internal linking: Connect everything logically
For example, an Orlando HVAC company might have a pillar page on “AC Repair” with supporting articles on “Signs Your AC Needs Repair,” “AC Repair Costs in Orlando,” and “How to Choose an HVAC Contractor.”
The Local Advantage
Here’s the good news for Orlando businesses: GEO actually levels the playing field. While national brands might dominate traditional rankings, local expertise and authentic local content can win you a spot in AI-generated summaries.
Google’s AI is designed to provide helpful, accurate information. If your website clearly demonstrates deep knowledge of the Orlando market—neighborhoods, local regulations, seasonal concerns, regional pricing—you have a natural advantage over generic national content.
Measuring GEO Success
Traditional SEO metrics like ranking position matter less in the AI Overview era. Instead, track:
- AI Overview appearances — Is your business being cited?
- Brand mentions in AI responses — Are you being named as a top option?
- Click-through rates — Are users engaging after seeing AI summaries?
- Featured snippet ownership — Snippets often feed into AI Overviews
The Bottom Line
SEO isn’t dead—it’s evolving. The fundamentals (quality content, technical optimization, local citations) still matter, but the presentation layer has changed. Businesses that adapt to GEO optimization now will capture the visibility that others lose as AI Overviews expand.
At Orange Rock Media, we’re helping Orlando businesses navigate this transition. Whether you need to audit your current content for AI readiness or build a comprehensive GEO strategy, our team understands what it takes to get featured in the new search landscape.
Questions about optimizing for Google AI Overviews? Contact us for a free consultation on your GEO strategy.
