AI is changing how people search for services and suppliers. Traditional search listings are no longer the only path to visibility. Platforms such as Google’s AI Overview and ChatGPT now summarise and present information directly to users, often before they visit a website.
This shift has opened new lead generation opportunities for businesses that know how to appear in AI-generated answers.
Why AI Overview and ChatGPT Matter for Lead Generation
AI search tools do more than point to results. They deliver summaries, recommendations and shortlists of providers. This creates a new front line for customer acquisition.
Being included in these summaries means:
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Your business is visible earlier in the decision-making process
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Prospects see your brand as authoritative and relevant
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You attract leads with higher intent and greater urgency
In effect, the AI tool does the shortlisting for the user. If your business is not visible, you are not considered.
Real Results from AI SEO
Several ExtraDigital clients have already seen success from optimising for AI search tools.
Engineering Firm, UK and Europe – June 2025
After investing in AI SEO, the company reported:
“Just received the third lead from AI Overview – the AI SEO work ExtraDigital are doing is having an impact.”
This client gained three leads in one week, all traced to visibility in AI-generated summaries.
Kent-based Business – June 2025
A local firm analysed its performance for Q2 and found:
“Based on last quarter’s data, the ROI from SEO is highest — with over 38% of revenue generated from Google AI Overview or ChatGPT.”
This confirmed that AI-focused SEO was delivering more value than traditional search.
Sales Director, B2B Sector – July 2025
A client’s internal sales feedback noted:
“Latest new business found us in the AI Overview on Google. Well done to the marketing team – SEO strategy for AI is having an impact.”
This illustrates the role AI platforms now play in early lead discovery.
How to Appear in AI-Generated Results
Getting featured in AI Overview or ChatGPT search is not about ranking alone. These systems prioritise structured, relevant, and expert content.
To improve your visibility, focus on:
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Creating clear, fact-led answers to specific industry questions
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Using structured formats such as bullet points, tables or short Q&A sections
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Adding schema and markup to signal key information to search engines
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Refreshing content regularly to maintain accuracy and topicality
AI platforms are more likely to include content that is current, specific and trustworthy.
Final Thought
AI-driven search is reshaping how potential clients discover and evaluate suppliers. Appearing in AI-generated summaries is now a direct path to lead generation. Businesses that adapt their content and SEO strategy for AI search are already seeing measurable results.
If you want to be visible where buying decisions begin, it is time to consider how your content performs in AI tools such as Google’s AI Overview and ChatGPT.
Speak to ExtraDigital about making your website visible to today’s AI-powered buyers.
