27 questions buyers ask AI before they choose, by industry
Real examples of the questions people put to ChatGPT, Gemini, Claude and Google AI in nine industries, and what they mean for your business.
Buyers ask AI three main kinds of questions before they choose: who is best for a specific need ('best employment lawyer for a small business'), what something costs or involves ('how much does a roof replacement cost'), and which option fits a constraint ('which clinic takes my insurance this week'). Businesses that answer these questions clearly on their own site and are mentioned by trusted sources are the ones AI names.
Law firms
- “Best employment lawyer for a small business near me?”
- “Do I need a lawyer to contest a will?”
- “How much does a commercial lease review cost?”
See GEO for law firms.
Healthcare & dental
- “Which dentist near me offers same-day emergency appointments?”
- “Which clinic near me takes my insurance this week?”
- “Top-rated dermatologist for acne scars?”
See GEO for healthcare & dental.
Behavioral health
- “Where can I find a counselor who offers teletherapy?”
- “Addiction counselor near me who takes my insurance?”
- “Which therapists offer weekend appointments?”
See GEO for behavioral health.
Home services
- “Reliable plumber near me who can come today?”
- “How much does a roof replacement cost?”
- “Best HVAC company for a new AC install?”
Construction & building supply
- “Which supplier ships SIPs and lumber to Alaska?”
- “Who supplies glulam beams for commercial projects?”
- “Which suppliers offer job-site delivery?”
See GEO for construction & building supply.
SaaS & software
- “Best CRM for a 50-person sales team?”
- “Cheaper alternative to the market leader for small teams?”
- “Which HR software integrates with Slack?”
E-commerce & retail
- “Best running shoe for flat feet under $150?”
- “Most comfortable office chair for back pain?”
- “Which skincare brands are fragrance-free?”
See GEO for e-commerce & retail.
Financial & professional services
- “Accountant who specializes in small business taxes?”
- “Best fee-only financial advisor near me?”
- “How much does a bookkeeper cost?”
See GEO for financial & professional services.
Real estate
- “Best agent for first-time buyers in my city?”
- “Which neighborhoods are best for families?”
- “How long does it take to sell a house here?”
See GEO for real estate.
What these questions have in common
- They include a specific need, not just a category.
- Many include a location, budget or deadline.
- They expect a short list of named options, not ten links.
That's why clear, specific pages and consistent third-party information matter so much. See how to write pages AI engines can quote.
How to use this list
Pick the questions closest to your business, rewrite them in your customers' words, and test them yourself, or run a free AI Mirror. Then use the GEO checklist to close the gaps.
- Buyers ask AI about needs, costs and constraints.
- Most questions expect a short list of named options.
- Location, budget and timing often appear in the question.
- Test the questions closest to your business regularly.
Frequently asked questions
Are these real questions?
They're representative examples of the types of questions buyers ask in each industry. Your exact questions will vary.
How do I find my own customers' questions?
Ask your sales and support teams, review enquiry forms and search queries, and listen to how customers describe their problem.
How many questions should I track?
Start with 20 to 50 across your main services. See how to measure AI visibility.
Is my industry missing?
GEO works anywhere buyers ask AI for recommendations. Talk to us about yours.
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