TJ Robertson’s First Encounter with SearchGPT: An SEO’s Perspective

TJ Robertson, the Director of Search Engine Optimization at Envision Marketing, recently shared his first impressions of OpenAI’s new SearchGPT. This tool is designed to compete with Google and improve how small businesses are discovered online. Robertson’s insights reveal how SearchGPT (now in closed beta testing) could revolutionize SEO.

A New Player in Local Search

During his test, Robertson searched for “window tinting shops near me” and was impressed by the speed and accuracy of the results. Unlike Google, which uses its established ranking system, SearchGPT combines data from Google Maps with its own indexing and ranking. This approach offers unique results, potentially highlighting businesses that Google might overlook.

Robertson noted that while SearchGPT pulls images and basic information from Google Maps, it doesn’t copy Google’s rankings. Instead, it uses its criteria, benefiting small businesses competing with larger ones.

🔍 Findings from Day 1 of testing SearchGPT for small businesses:

🗺️ It’s pulling information from Google Maps for some terms, but has its own ranking system
🏗️ It has its own index and search results it’s using to craft its response
🤖 It hallucinates, as you would expect… pic.twitter.com/BxkRvatLZc

— TJRobertsonSEO (@SeoRobertson) July 31, 2024

Handling Specific Queries with Ease

One of SearchGPT’s most impressive features is its ability to handle specific queries. Robertson tested this by asking for shops that offer ceramic window tint, have experience with Teslas, and are open on weekends. SearchGPT provided accurate results, displaying businesses that met all these criteria based on detailed information from their websites.

Google often struggles with this level of specificity. SearchGPT’s ability to filter and display precise information makes it an invaluable tool for users seeking specific services.

Implications for SEO Strategies

For professionals like Robertson, SearchGPT changes the game. It highlights the need for detailed, specific information on business websites. 

Businesses must go beyond basic SEO practices and ensure their websites have comprehensive, up-to-date details about their services, specializations, and operating hours. Robertson’s test shows a shift towards smarter search algorithms. SEO strategies need to focus more on the quality and specificity of content, not just keywords.

A New Era of Search

Historically, search engines like Google have dominated with algorithms prioritizing links and keywords. However, this approach has limitations, especially with complex, multi-faceted queries.

SearchGPT represents a shift from this model, using advanced language models to understand and process natural language queries more effectively. This could signal the beginning of a new era where search engines better understand user intent and deliver more relevant results.

Looking ahead, it’s likely that other tech giants will develop their advanced search algorithms to compete with SearchGPT. This competition could drive innovation, leading to even more sophisticated search tools that enhance the user experience.

Practical Advice for Businesses

The key takeaway for businesses looking to take advantage of SearchGPT is clear: invest in your online presence. Ensure your website has detailed product and service information, including niche specializations and unique selling points.

Update your content regularly to reflect any changes in your offerings or operating hours. This proactive approach will improve your visibility on SearchGPT and enhance your online presence, making it easier for potential customers to find you.

Key Takeaways 

• SearchGPT uses data from Google Maps and its own index, offering a more diverse range of search results.
• The tool excels at processing highly specific queries, giving users precisely what they’re looking for.
• Businesses must prioritize detailed and specific website content to optimize for SearchGPT.