What is Generative Engine Optimization?

We've written another article about Generative Engine Optimization (GEO), and if it is the same as SEO and what it means. To summarize it, Generative Engine Optimization is the process of optimizing your website for AI engines so that when people ask AI engines for a search term that's relevant for your business, you are being mentioned as either an answer or cited.

In this article, we are going to review what Generative Engine Optimization is and why it matters, and how you can optimize your website for it.

AI SEO, GEO, AEO, LLMO, what is the right term?

There have been so many different acronyms and names for this. The truth is, there's no consensus yet on what the right term is. However, most folks seem to call it GEO, although we've seen some LinkedIn posts saying that AISEO was the term that won.

So, what is Generative Engine Optimization (GEO)?

GEO stands for Generative Engine Optimization, and it’s about making sure AI tools like ChatGPT, Perplexity, and Google’s AI mode mention your brand or website when people ask them questions, similar to how SEO works with Google. It first appeared in 2023 and is quickly becoming essential as AI chatbots replace traditional search. GEO focuses on creating content that AIs can easily understand, trust, and include in their answers.

Does this mean SEO is dead?

SEO is far from that. As a matter of fact, if you are optimizing your website and your content for SEO, chances are that you will be very likely to show up in answers. Therefore, you are already optimizing for Generative Engine Optimization.