AI is becoming your studio's new referral source

But you need to maintain an online presence

ChatGPT (and other AI assistants) recommend businesses based on several key factors:

1. Pre-trained knowledge and data: ChatGPT pulls from its pre-trained knowledge that includes publicly available information about businesses. Unlike traditional search engines, it doesn't actively crawl the web in real-time for every query.

2. Quality and credibility signals: It prioritizes businesses that have accurate, up-to-date, and credible information available online. This means having a well-established online presence is crucial.

3. SEO and online visibility: Higher visibility in search engines often translates to a stronger presence in AI-generated recommendations If your business ranks well in Google, it's more likely to be recommended by ChatGPT.

4. Reputation and reviews: Businesses with stellar reviews and positive online mentions are more likely to be recommended. The more positive sentiment around your brand online, the better.

5. Brand mentions: The number of times a brand or product is mentioned online affects recommendations. This includes mentions in reputable publications, blogs, social media, and other online platforms.

6. Authority metrics: Social following, domain authority, and website affiliations all play a role in how an AI like ChatGPT decides which businesses to recommend.

   
   

It's worth noting that since ChatGPT isn't always trained on the latest information across the web, changes you make to improve your online presence may take time to affect AI recommendations.

How to improve your studio's chances of being recommended by ChatGPT

To boost your studio's chances of being recommended by ChatGPT, you'll need to strategically enhance your online presence.

Optimize Your Local Presence

1. Perfect your Google Business Profile

   • Ensure your pottery studio has a complete and verified Google Business Profile with accurate business hours, location, and contact information

   • Add high-quality photos of your studio, customers' painted pottery pieces, and group painting sessions

   • Select the most precise business categories (e.g., "Pottery Studio," "Art Studio," "Creative Workshop")

2. Encourage quality reviews

   • Implement a simple system to ask satisfied customers to leave reviews

   • Consider offering a small discount on their next visit for leaving a review

   • Respond thoughtfully to all reviews, especially addressing any concerns in negative ones

   
   

Create Rich, Relevant Content

1. Develop a keyword-focused website

   • Create content around terms like "pottery painting in [your city]," "family pottery activities," "ceramic painting studio," etc.

   • Include an FAQ section specifically answering questions locals might ask about pottery painting

2. Share your expertise

   • Write blog posts about pottery techniques, the history of ceramic painting, or the therapeutic benefits of creative activities

   • Create guides like "How to Host the Perfect Pottery Painting Party" or "5 Ceramic Projects Perfect for Kids"

3. Showcase your uniqueness

   • Highlight what makes your studio special—special techniques, unique glazes, particular themes, or events you host

   • Create a "Studio Story" page explaining your passion for pottery and community

   
   

Build an Online Reputation

1. Establish connections with local entities

   • Partner with local schools, community centers, or businesses for workshops

   • Get mentioned in local news websites, community blogs, and event listings

   • Join your local Chamber of Commerce and participate in community events

2. Leverage social proof

   • Feature testimonials prominently on your website

   • Create a gallery of customer work (with permission)

   • Share success stories of birthday parties, team-building events, or special occasions hosted at your studio

3. Engage on social media

   • Post regularly showing finished pieces, classes in action, and special events

   • Use location tags and local hashtags consistently

   • Engage with local community pages and groups

   
   

Technical Considerations

1. Structure your website properly

   • Use schema markup to help AI understand your business type and offerings

   • Ensure your site is mobile-friendly and loads quickly

   • Include your business name, address, and phone number (NAP) consistently on every page

2. Get listed in directories

   • Ensure your studio is listed in art-specific directories like Yelp's "Art Classes" category

   • Join pottery and craft directories

   • Get listed in local tourism websites and "things to do" guides

Create Content for Specific Questions

Create content that directly answers questions people might ask ChatGPT, such as:

• "Where can I take my kids for a creative activity in [your city]?"

• "What are unique date night ideas in [your area]?"

• "Creative birthday party venues for children in [your location]"

• "Rainy day activities in [your city]"

Monitor and Adapt

Periodically ask ChatGPT yourself: "What are the best pottery painting studios in [your city]?" to see if your studio is being recommended. If not, continue refining your strategy based on the studios that are getting mentioned.

By implementing these strategies consistently, you'll significantly increase the likelihood that your pottery painting studio becomes one of ChatGPT's top recommendations for creative activities in your area.