Mentions on other sites: how to get into the sources AI cites

Your own website naturally says you are the best. An AI assistant knows that too. That is why a model likes to look at what others say about you: review sites, comparison sites, industry directories and local media. The more often you are well listed there, the more likely AI is to mention you.

Step 1: find out which sources AI uses

This differs a lot per industry and per town. A plumber in The Hague has different sources than a lawyer in Groningen. There are two ways to find out:

• Ask yourself: ask Perplexity or ChatGPT a question about your kind of business in your town and look at the sources listed under the answer. Do this for several questions.
• Measure: the report from the free AI check shows which websites are cited most often for your questions, across all four models.

You usually end up with a list of five to ten sites that keep coming back. That is your target list.

Step 2: group the sources

Review platforms and trade sites. You can usually create a profile yourself. Fill it in completely and ask customers for reviews.

Business directories and trade associations. Think of your industry body's website or a quality mark. A listing as a recognised member builds trust.

Lists and comparisons. Articles like "The 10 best hairdressers in Utrecht". Contact the writer or editor. Briefly explain what sets you apart and why you belong on the list. Not every list will work with you, but it is worth a try.

Local media and blogs. An article in a local paper or neighbourhood blog about a project, an anniversary or a notable job. That gives you a mention in a source AI considers reliable.

Step 3: make sure every listing is correct

For every listing: the same business name, the same address and phone number, a link to your website and a short, factual description of what you do and where. Inconsistent details make it harder for a model to connect your mentions.

Step 4: start with the biggest opportunity

Pick the source AI cites most often and where you are currently not listed, or poorly. That is where your effort pays off most. Then move to the next one.

What not to do

Paid link packages, fake articles and listings on websites that only exist to sell links. Search engines and AI recognise these better and better, and they can do more harm than good.

Keep track

Sources change. A site AI cites often today may matter less in six months. With GEO tracking you see every week which sources are cited and whether your visibility rises after you get listed somewhere.