What to optimize
Start with accurate, readable service and location pages, relevant customer evidence, and clear contact information. Use structured data only when it matches visible facts.
The REAL Method is an editorial checklist for business facts, evidence, answers, and links. It is not a measurement of ChatGPT or a vendor-specific formula.
- Record the exact prompt, date, answer, mention decision, and source link if present.
- Review crawler access and business facts as possible website issues, not proven causes of one answer.
- Compare like-for-like prompts over time before reporting a visibility trend.
Fast response workflow
When a ChatGPT feature changes, check the provider's current documentation and repeat a small, dated query set. Update this guide only where the source or observed answers support a change.
Common questions
How does ChatGPT decide which local business to recommend?
There is no public formula that lets a business predict which local name ChatGPT will return. Answers vary by prompt and available sources. Keep business facts accurate and record the exact prompt, answer, citations, and date when testing.
Does ChatGPT cite sources for local recommendations?
Some ChatGPT answers include source links. A crawlable page may be eligible as a source, but neither schema nor one crawler setting guarantees a citation; verify the answer and the provider's current crawler guidance.