If you’ve searched on Google recently, you’ll have noticed it’s no longer just a list of links. At the top, there’s often a big box with a tidy summary, almost like Google has done the legwork for you. That’s an AI Overview.

And if you’re a small business owner, you’ve probably wondered: “How do I get my business to show up in there?” You’re not the only one to search for “how to rank in AI Overviews”. It’s becoming a hot search topic.

Here’s the good news:

• You don’t need to learn loads of new technical tricks.

• You don’t need to stress about “SEO ranking” jargon.

• And you definitely don’t need to pay an SEO agency £5,000 a month.

So, what’s actually going on?

How AI Overviews Work

In simple terms, Google now uses AI to scan countless websites, extract what it sees as the most useful information, and display that neatly at the top of search results.

Think of it as a well-read robot butler: it gathers the best answers from around the web, squashes them into a digestible paragraph, and hands them to the searcher with a “here you go”.

But that begs the big question…

Where Does Google Get This Info?

Here’s the golden bit: Google’s AI isn’t using secret tags or hidden settings; it’s pulling content from regular websites, just like yours. In fact, Google has confirmed there’s no special code, shortcut, or magic handshake.

So what does matter? Let’s break it down.

1. Be Helpful, Not Fluffy

Google loves clear, direct answers.

If someone searches “How much does it cost to repaint a living room?”, don’t waffle. Write something like:

“Most UK homeowners pay between £300 and £600 to have a standard living room repainted professionally.”

That’s the kind of concise, useful answer Google wants for its AI Overview.

2. Structure Your Content

Use headings, bullet points, and short paragraphs. Write like a human, but organise like a robot.

Why? Because Google scans quickly. A wall of text will be skipped faster than a teenager asked to empty the dishwasher.

3. Educate, Don’t Just Sell

Google’s AI isn’t here to help you make a sale; it’s here to help users learn.

If your website is nothing but “Call now for a quote!”, you’re giving the AI nothing. Instead, explain:

• How your service works

• What people can expect

• Mistakes to avoid

• Costs, timeframes, benefits

4. Build Trust

Before Google shows your content, it needs to trust your site. That means:

• Clear business details (address, phone, trading history)

• A fast, mobile-friendly, up-to-date website

• Reviews, testimonials, or case studies

You don’t need to go overboard, just don’t look like your site was last updated in the Nokia era.

5. Answer Real Questions

Use tools like People Also Ask or AnswerThePublic to find the actual questions people are typing in, and then answer them in plain English.

Not keyword-stuffed nonsense. Not SEO gobbledygook. Just straight, helpful answers.

The Bottom Line

Ranking in AI Overviews isn’t about gaming the system. It’s about what good websites have always done:

• Be clear

• Be useful

• Answer real questions

• Sound human

If you’re already creating helpful content, you’re on the right track. If not, now’s the time, because AI summaries are here to stay, and the businesses that adapt early will win the clicks.

Want help making your website AI-friendly without the stress? That’s exactly what we do. No fluff. No faff. Just results. Let’s chat.