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There are various well-known tactics for increasing website traffic and growth, the majority of them are focused on SEO. However, there is a lesser-known technique called GEO (Generative Engine Optimization) that is more effective at helping your website rank in generative AI searches. The good news is that you don’t have to choose either of the two. Your smart move should be using both GEO and SEO to create a digital presence that is strong, flexible, and future-proof.
We will start this article by discussing the differences between Generative Engine Optimization (GEO) and Search Engine Optimization (SEO):
What is SEO:
SEO is the pioneer tool for digital marketing. It’s all about optimizing your content so Google (and other search engines) like your content and therefore disseminate content from your website to more visitors. The goal is to help your website rank higher, get more organic traffic, and build authority over time.
Why SEO is Good:
- Steady, long-term traffic – A well-optimized page can bring in visitors for years.
- Builds trust & authority – Ranking high on Google makes your brand look good and valuable.
- Works for traditional searches – Most people still rely on Google search rather than generative AI platforms for information.
But SEO isn’t perfect. It takes time (sometimes months or years to start seeing results (in the form of traffic) and requires consistent effort (updating content, creating backlinks, etc.). That is where GEO becomes essential.
What is Generative Search Optimization (GEO)?
GEO (Generative Engine Optimization) is the new way of optimizing searches by optimizing your content for AI-driven platforms like ChatGPT, Gemini, or voice assistants like Alexa and Siri; rather than focusing solely on Google.
Why GEO is a Game-Changer
- GEO offers instant visibility: AI platforms can help bring your content to the surface immediately, without waiting for rankings.
- Better for voice & conversational search: More people are adopting the use of voice commands for searches. For example, people now often make queries using oral commands like “What’s the best…?” instead of typing “best [keyword]”).
- Adapts to new tech: As AI keeps growing and spreading, GEO keeps your content in the spotlight.
The Smart Move is Combining Both SEO and GEO
Instead of choosing between SEO and GEO, the real power move is using them together. They complement each other because SEO helps build lasting authority on search engines, whereas GEO keeps you visible in AI chats and voice searches.
How to Combine Generative Search Optimization (GEO) With SEO
1. Optimize for SEO First – Use keywords, backlinks, and high-quality content to rank on Google.
2. Structure for GEO – Write content in a clear and conversational style, suitable for AI platforms.
3. Keep Updating – Refresh old posts to stay relevant in both traditional and AI searches.
The Core Principles of GEO
To make your content friendly for AI search using GEO, follow these four key principles:
1. Focus on User Intent (Not Just Keywords):
AI doesn’t just match keywords. It tries to understand what users want. So, instead of stuffing your content with machine-like phrases, structure it properly using more natural language (or human-like language). Try to imagine yourself as a real person asking a friend the question.
For example:
“Why does X happen?”
- “How do I fix Y?”
- “What’s the best way to do Z?”
2. Clarity & Structure Matters
AI loves simple and well-organized content. Always make your content is easy to comprehend by using:
- Clear headings & subheadings (H2, H3, etc).
- Bullet points & numbered lists (like this one).
- Use enough bold or italicized text.
- Use short paragraphs. Try to limit your paragraphs to 20 words.
The easier it is for AI to comprehend and extract information from your content, the more likely it’ll use your content.
3. Authority & Credibility Are Non-Negotiable
AI models prioritize trusted sources, therefore:
- Always cite reputable studies, experts, or data, and ensure that links are added.
- Update old content because AI models are trained to avoid outdated information.
- Build your brand’s reputation. Remember, if you’re not seen as a credible source, AI won’t reference you—no matter how well-optimized your content is.
4. Write Just The Same Way You Talk
AI-generated answers sound natural, so your content should too.
- Always use a conversational tone (like this article).
- Avoid excessive jargon (unless your audience expects it).
- Answer questions as directly as possible.
Remember: The more your content mirrors how people speak, the better.
How to Implement GEO: A Step-by-Step Guide
Step 1: Research what the audience wants.
Use tools like:
- Google Trends, Semrush etc. They help you see the questions that people are asking the most.
- AnswerThePublic (for searching longer queries).
- Take time to study how ChatGPT/Perplexity and other generative AI answer questions.
Credit: Utopiantechnology
Step 2: Optimize for AI-Friendly Formats
AI loves structured content. Therefore always include the following in your content:
- FAQ sections with clear and meaningful questions and answers.
- Step-by-step guides (numbered instructions).
- Use comprehensive breakdowns including stats and charts.
Bonus Tip: Use schema markup (like FAQ or How-To schemas) to help AI pick up your content faster.
Step 3: Build Strong Authenticity and Reputation
AI often won’t cite random blogs. It usually cites trusted experts exclusively. It’s important to assert authenticity by:
- Using backlinks from high-authority sites.
- Publish original research or case studies
- Collaborate with social media influencers to help boost your website.
The more your brand is referenced elsewhere, the more AI sees you as a go-to source.
Step 4: Distribute Your Content Beyond Your Website
AI scans social media platforms, not just websites and blogs.
Always share your content on platforms like:
- LinkedIn & Twitter (use long threads for better results).
- Reddit & Quora (answering questions with depth gives the best results).
- YouTube (using subtitles on your video content makes it likely to get indexed by AI).
The wider your content spreads, the more likely AI will pick it up.
Step 5: Track & Adapt Your Content
Always track and adapt your content by doing the following:
- Monitor if AI cites you (check ChatGPT/Perplexity responses).
- Try experimenting with different formats (e.g., does video + transcript work better than text?).
- Update old posts (AI favors fresh, accurate information).
Additionally, you can use an AI agent like Chatsonic to help optimize your content for GEO. Simply copy and paste your content into Chatsonic for GEO optimization.
Credit: Utopiantechnology
AI search is becoming increasingly used by people and using generative engine optimization (GEO) is how you help your website stay ahead in ranking. By blending traditional SEO with AI-friendly optimizations, you’ll not only rank on Google but also make your website accessible for ChatGPT, Gemini, and other generative AI platforms.