There’s a lot of hype (and confusion) around Artificial Intelligence (AI) right now.
Some people think it’s taking over. Others think it’s only for big tech. Many small business owners don’t see how it affects them at all.
But here’s the truth:
AI already impacts how your business shows up in search results.
And the good news? You can absolutely benefit if you understand just a few basics.
So… What Is AI in Plain English?
AI is a smart system that reads, sorts, and summarizes massive amounts of data from across the internet. It’s what powers Google’s search results, voice assistants like Siri, and even those quick summaries you see at the top of a search.
Think of AI like a super-fast librarian.
When someone searches “best dog groomer near me,” AI isn’t just looking for the words—they’re looking for patterns, trust, and structured info.
That’s where most local businesses either:
Shine… or
Get skipped.
What Does AI Actually Look At?
AI gathers info about your business from across the web—especially:
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Directories (like Virginia Pages)
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Your website
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Google Business Profile
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Reviews and ratings
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Social media mentions
If that information is inconsistent, missing, or outdated, AI gets confused—and confused AI doesn’t recommend you.
The Opportunity: Be the Business AI Loves to Recommend
Want more visibility online? Here’s what works right now:
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Complete and accurate directory listings (like on Virginia Pages)
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Consistent business details across all platforms (same name, phone, etc.)
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High-quality descriptions of what you do, where you do it, and who you serve
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Positive customer reviews (and responses to all reviews, good or bad)
In short: AI rewards businesses who keep their online presence clean, consistent, and clear.
What About Privacy? What’s Public vs Private?
Here’s how we’ve set things up at Virginia Pages:
| What’s Public | What’s Private |
|---|---|
| Business Directory – your listing, services, contact info | Virginia Pages Network – private community for business owners |
| Designed to help customers find you | Designed to help you connect with other businesses |
| Indexed by search engines like Google | Not visible to the public or search engines |
It’s the best of both worlds:
Visibility where you need it.
Privacy where it matters.
Final Thought: AI Is a Tool, Not a Threat
AI doesn’t replace your business—it amplifies the information you give it.
That’s why we created the Virginia Pages Directory and Network:
To help smart local businesses like yours show up, stand out, and grow.
What You Can Do Today
Check your listing in the Virginia Pages Directory → https://www.virginiapagesbusiness.ie/search_results
Claim or complete your profile (click the claim your listing button or click join to create a profile)
Join our private Network of local business owners
Let’s build visibility, connection, and success—together. Read our more detailed blog here