Understanding Entities in AI Search
The building blocks of knowledge graphs
Entities are the people, places, things, and concepts that AI search engines recognize and understand. Entity optimization helps establish your business as a distinct, authoritative entity with clear relationships to other entities in your industry.
Business Entity Recognition
Help AI understand your business as a distinct entity
Relationship Mapping
Connect your entity to related topics and expertise areas
Authority Building
Establish topical authority in your industry domain
Types of Entities
Person: Founders, experts, team members
Organization: Your business, partners, clients
Place: Locations, service areas, offices
Thing/Concept: Services, products, topics
Implementation
Entity Optimization Checklist
1
Define Your Primary Business EntityEstablish your business as a recognized entity
- Create consistent NAP (Name, Address, Phone) across web
- Claim Google Business Profile and other directory listings
- Use consistent business name and branding everywhere
- Link social media profiles and official channels
2
Map Entity RelationshipsConnect your business to related entities
- Identify key people (founders, experts, team)
- List partner organizations and clients
- Define service areas and locations
- Catalog products, services, and expertise topics
3
Build Topic AuthorityEstablish expertise in specific domains
- Create comprehensive content on core topics
- Use consistent terminology and naming
- Interlink related content and concepts
- Cite authoritative sources and be cited by others
4
Implement Entity MarkupUse structured data to define entities
- Add Organization schema with complete details
- Include Person schema for key team members
- Use Place schema for business locations
- Implement Service/Product schema as applicable