SEO is Dead? Long Live AEO (Answer Engine Optimization)

For two decades, "Googling" has been synonymous with searching. But the tide is turning. Users are increasingly turning to AI models like ChatGPT, Gemini, and Perplexity to find answers, bypassing the traditional list of blue links.

What is AEO?

Answer Engine Optimization (AEO) is the art of structuring your content so that AI models perceive it as the authoritative source of truth. Unlike SEO, which optimizes for keywords, AEO optimizes for entities and facts.

Key Strategies for AEO

• Direct Answers: Start your articles with clear, concise definitions. AI loves directness.
• Schema Markup: Use robust JSON-LD schema to help machines understand the relationships between entities on your page.
• Conversational Tone: Write as if you are speaking to a human. LLMs are trained on natural language and prioritize content that sounds natural.

The Brand Entity

In this new world, your brand needs to be an entity in the Knowledge Graph. If the AI doesn't know who you are, it won't cite you. Building brand authority through PR, social proof, and high-quality thought leadership is more critical than ever.