Google’s New AI Mode: What Home Service Businesses Need to Know
Hi, Joe Burnett here from Big West Marketing. Today I want to dive into something that’s shaking up the search world — Google’s AI Mode — and what it means for home service business owners.
But before we get into the details, I want to start with a quick warning.
Beware of AI SEO Scams
Right now, there’s a flood of new “AI-powered SEO” tools and programs on the market. While some are legitimate, many are scams designed to prey on business owners who don’t fully understand AI or SEO.
The pitch often goes something like this:
“If you don’t jump on this right now, your competitors will leave you in the dust!”
That’s a scare tactic — and it’s usually a red flag.
If a salesperson is pushing you to buy immediately because “everyone else is doing it,” chances are it’s not worth your time or money.
Insights from Google’s Former Director of Business Profiles
I recently attended a webinar with Brad Weatherall, former Director of Google Business Profiles, and learned some critical information that applies directly to home service businesses — electricians, plumbers, HVAC companies, cleaning services, and more.
Here’s what’s changing:
What Is Google AI Mode?
When you search for something like “electrician Missoula MT” on Google, you can now switch to AI Mode.
This feature changes how results are displayed:
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It doesn’t just pull from your Google Business Profile and website.
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It mixes in information from other sources across the web.
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Reviews, brand mentions, and content from non-Google directories (like Yelp or Nextdoor) are now part of the results.
In short, Google is broadening its data sources to create AI-generated results. And that means your online presence needs to be strong in more places than just Google.
Why Brand Mentions Matter More Than Ever
In AI Mode, Google is prioritizing brand mentions — other sites and directories talking about your business.
That means if people are mentioning your company on:
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Yelp
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Nextdoor
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Industry-specific directories
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Local news websites
…it can help you show up more prominently in AI Mode results.
And this isn’t just about reviews. Even general mentions, recommendations, or discussions about your business matter.
High-Quality Content Is Still King
Another major factor in AI Mode rankings? High-quality website content.
Here’s one tactic we’ve been using for over a year that’s working incredibly well:
Add Real FAQs to Your Homepage
For example, with one of our clients, 360 Electric, we asked the owner:
“What are the top questions customers ask you before hiring?”
We then put authentic, detailed answers to those questions directly on his homepage.
This isn’t filler content. These are real, useful answers that help potential customers — and Google loves it.
When AI Mode scans his site, it finds rich, relevant information that improves his visibility.
What This Means for Your SEO Strategy
If you’re a home service business, here’s where to focus:
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Get mentioned beyond Google
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Ask happy customers to leave reviews on Yelp, Nextdoor, and other niche directories.
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Build relationships that get your business mentioned in local media and blogs.
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Create real, useful content
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Publish FAQs and service guides that answer the exact questions customers ask you.
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Keep it genuine — no generic fluff.
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Stay cautious about “AI SEO” offers
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Avoid pressure sales tactics and miracle promises.
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Stick with proven strategies while adapting to new changes.
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The Future of SEO Is Evolving
AI Mode is still new, and not everyone is using it yet. But make no mistake — this is where search is headed.
At Big West Marketing, we’re testing and adapting now so our clients can stay ahead of the curve.
