AI tools like ChatGPT, Bing Copilot, and Google’s Search Generative Experience are changing how people search — but Google Business Profiles (GBPs) remain essential. GBP data powers many AI results and is still one of the most effective ways to reach local customers. Keeping your profile accurate, active, and optimized is critical for online visibility and patient growth.
Why Google Business Profiles Still Matter in an AI-Driven World
Hi, I’m Javier from the Digital Marketing Team at Audigy. I want to share why your Google Business Profile (GBP) is more important than ever — especially as AI transforms the way people search.
AI tools are growing fast, but Google still leads in search traffic, processing around 8 to 10 billion queries each day. A large share of those are people looking for local businesses, and most of those connections happen through GBP listings.
Even as AI enhances search experiences, Google’s local results often rely on GBP data. That means your profile directly affects how — and if — you show up when people are looking for hearing care near them.
Local Search by the Numbers
- ~85–87 % of consumers still rely on Google when researching local businesses, making it by far the dominant discovery channel. (BrightLocal)
- Google has begun rolling out AI Overviews (AI-generated summaries) across search results, but only ~7% of local search queries currently trigger an AI Overview. This means searches like “audiologist near me” still primarily surface traditional SEO results and map listings powered by GBP data. (WordStream)
- If AI Overviews expand to more local searches, Google will likely rely heavily on your Google Business Profile — pulling data such as services offered, reviews, hours, and photos — to generate AI-powered responses.
- Businesses that fully optimize their GBP (adding accurate hours, services, photos, and collecting reviews) can see up to a 60%+ increase in customer actions like calls, website visits, and direction requests. (BrightLocal)
- 64% of consumers say they’ve used a Google Business Profile to find contact details — without ever visiting the business’s website. (BrightLocal)
How to Optimize Your Google Business Profile for Maximum Impact
Your Google Business Profile isn’t just a listing — it’s one of your most powerful local marketing tools. Actively managed profiles are more likely to rank well in local search results and drive higher engagement from prospective patients.
Profiles that are actively managed tend to rank higher and convert better. That includes:
- Keeping business info accurate across the web
- Earning high-quality and recent reviews
- Uploading fresh photos and updates
- Posting regularly to keep your profile current
- Answering questions and responding to reviews
The Bottom Line
AI is changing the way people find businesses — but Google still leans on your Business Profile to power local results. A well-maintained GBP helps you stay competitive, even as search evolves.
Our team at Audigy is here to support you with marketing strategy and search engine optimization programs. If you’d like to review your profile or talk through optimization opportunities, reach out to your marketing manager anytime.
Please reach out with any questions. We’re happy to help guide you on this new technological frontier.