Imagine asking Google a question and getting an answer without having to click on a single website. Lovely for the person searching – slightly terrifying if your business relies on people visiting your website.
Here’s the interesting bit though. Google still needs information to create those answers, and some of it comes from websites just like yours.
The question is… could yours be one of them?
It’s a bit like being recommended by a friend
Picture someone asking a friend for advice on getting their boiler repaired. Their friend might not know how to fix a boiler, but they know a plumber who does.
Google’s AI (artificial intelligence) works a little differently (and thankfully doesn’t pretend it can pop round with a spanner), but the principle is similar. It gathers information to answer questions and can highlight websites that helped provide that information.
Being featured doesn’t mean Google officially endorses your business; however, it does mean you could appear in front of someone who hasn’t even heard of you yet.
You can find out exactly what we mean by being used as a Google AI source in this blog.
Your next customer might not be ready to buy
Not everyone searching Google has their wallet out. Someone looking for a new kitchen might first ask whether quartz worktops stain easily. Or, a homeowner considering solar panels might want to know how long they take to pay for themselves.
These people aren’t necessarily looking for a company yet. They’re looking for answers. And if your website is helping provide those answers, you’re getting an opportunity to introduce your business before they’re ready to make an enquiry. That’s worth paying attention to.
So, what’s the secret?
Unfortunately, there’s no magic button marked ‘Make Google Love My Website’. Start by thinking about the questions customers ask you every day. The awkward ones. The obvious ones. Even the ones you’ve answered approximately 4,000 times. They’re all potential topics for useful website content.
Remember, appearing as an AI source isn’t guaranteed, and it won’t automatically bring enquiries flooding in. But getting your business seen by the right people is a pretty good place to start.
Want your website to have a better chance of appearing in Google’s AI answers?
At Engage Web, we help businesses improve their visibility through SEO (search engine optimisation), AEO (answer engine optimisation) and useful content. Get in touch and let’s talk about your website. You can also watch this short video to learn more about why appearing as a Google AI source is important for your business in today’s world.
- Why being used as a Google AI source matters - October 23, 2026
- What is search intent? - October 8, 2026
- What should a business website include? - September 30, 2026
