You’ve probably noticed yourself - instead of saying “I’ll Google it,” more and more people are saying “I’ll just ask ChatGPT.” It’s not just hype. Search habits really are shifting, and that’s something businesses should keep an eye on.
Now, before we get carried away, Google isn’t about to vanish. Billions of searches still happen there every single day. But the way people search is changing - and AI tools like ChatGPT are becoming part of the routine.
So, what exactly are people turning to ChatGPT for? And what does it mean for how you show up online? Let’s dig in.
What People Use ChatGPT For
Think of ChatGPT like that friend who always has an answer, can explain things simply, and save you from digging through endless websites.
Here are some of the main ways people use it instead of Google:
- Quick explanations: “What’s a VPN?” or “Explain this like I’m five.”
- Ideas and planning: From meal plans to weekend trips, ChatGPT’s become the easy way to brainstorm.
- Writing help: Emails, captions, website copy - it’s like a draft partner on tap.
- Comparison and summaries: Instead of clicking through five blogs on “Squarespace vs. Wix,” people just ask and get a neat summary.
It’s basically about saving time and cutting through the noise.
What People Still Use Google For
That doesn’t mean Google’s been pushed aside. It still wins in a lot of situations, like:
- Finding businesses: Need a dentist in Norwich? You’ll Google it.
- Local searches: “Coffee shops near me” works because Google maps it out.
- Shopping: People still like browsing reviews, prices, and options.
- News and updates: AI can explain things, but it doesn’t always have the latest.
- Deep research: Some folks still want to click through and read the full articles or studies.
So if people want something specific - a service, a product, or the latest news - Google’s still their first stop.
What This Means for Businesses
Here’s the big question: if more people are using ChatGPT, how do you make sure your business shows up in the answer?
A few things really help:
- Nail the basics: Make sure your website is clear about who you are, what you do, and where you’re based. ChatGPT relies on what’s already online - so if your info’s easy to find and understand, you’re more likely to be included.
- Answer real questions: People ask AI the same kinds of things they’d type on Google. If your site has the content that directly answers those questions - “How much does X cost?” or “What’s the difference between A and B" - you’re in a strong spot.
- Keep things up to date: AI tools are less likely to pull from sites that look abandoned. A few fresh updates every now and then can make a big difference.
- Write like a human: Since people ask AI in a natural way, it helps if your content sounds natural too. Think more conversation, less keyword-stuffing.
- Stay visible on Google too: Don’t forget: Google’s still where people go when they’re ready to buy, book, or get directions. You want to be easy to find on both fronts.
The Takeaway
This isn’t a battle between Google and ChatGPT. It’s more like people using both - just for different things.
The smart move is making sure your online presence is clear, useful and up to date. That way, whether someone types into Google or asks ChatGPT, you’ve got a chance of showing up.
Because at the end of the day, it’s not really about the platform. It’s about making sure your business is the one people actually find - wherever they’re looking.
