As AI rapidly advances, the internet is scrambling to keep up. Even search engines are evolving to become AI-ready. A time might come when AI will completely drive them, and we’re already seeing signs. People now prefer AI tools because they offer quick, conversational answers.
GEO (Generative Engine Optimization) and AEO (Answer Engine Optimization) are emerging as the new game changers. It’s no longer just about rankings; it’s about being relevant and present where your audience is actually searching. With ChatGPT, Google SGE, and voice search on the rise, the SEO rulebook is getting outdated.
In this blog, we’ll show you the proven techniques we used to help our clients rank on both GEO and AEO platforms.
What is Generative Engine Optimization (GEO)?
GEO is the process of optimizing your content for AI-powered tools like ChatGPT, Meta AI, Microsoft Copilot, and Google Gemini. These platforms aren’t just search engines; they’re personal assistants used by millions.
People don’t just search with short keywords now. They ask full questions and expect clear, helpful answers. That’s why tools like ChatGPT are so popular. You can ask follow-up questions, get suggestions, and have a dialogue, just like talking to a real person.
Explained: What is Answer Engine Optimization (AEO)?
Have you noticed how Google now shows a neat, summarised answer box instead of just blue links?
That’s AEO in action. These AI-generated summaries take useful information from trusted sources and give users a quick, clear answer.
To get picked up, your content needs to be:
- AI-friendly
- Context-rich
- Clear and trustworthy
It’s not just about keywords anymore; you need to write content that AI can understand and present confidently.
SEO vs GEO vs AEO
Feature/Aspect | SEO (Search Engine Optimization) | GEO (Generative Engine Optimization) | AEO (Answer Engine Optimization) |
Target Engine | Google, Bing | ChatGPT, SGE, Copilot | Google AI, Siri, Alexa, voice search |
Ranking Factor | Keywords, backlinks, page speed | Context clarity, coherence, semantic richness | Accuracy, structured data, Q&A content |
Content Format | Long-form blogs, landing pages | FAQs, summaries, highly relevant content | How-tos, Q&As, concise paragraphs |
How to ACE Generative Engine Optimization (GEO)
GEO isn’t as complicated as it sounds. Nail a few basics, and you’re good to go. Here are some simple ways to make your content generative-engine-friendly:
Talk, Don’t Sell
Today, users aren’t just typing queries; they’re using voice commands and chatbots. This shift makes natural, conversational content more valuable. This not only improves user experience but also increases the chances of being picked up by voice search and AI-driven results.
Take the case of our client, Dr. Apurva Vyas, a bariatric surgeon.
When people search:
- “Is bariatric surgery safe?”
- “Can diabetic patients undergo bariatric surgery?”
- “Best bariatric surgeons near me”
Platforms like ChatGPT now respond with direct answers and even recommend relevant websites.
Why does Dr. Vyas show up? Because we optimized his site using EEAT principles:
- Experience: Showcased his decades of surgical experience
- Trustworthiness: Added testimonials and surgery outcomes
- Authoritativeness: Highlighted his association with IFSO
- Expertise: Positioned him as a pioneer in robotic bariatric surgery in Gujarat
By answering real user questions in a trustworthy, human way, we helped his content become part of AI-powered conversations.
Don’t Miss Out User Forums
Generative engines like ChatGPT fetch information from a wide range of sources. Platforms like Reddit, Quora, and LinkedIn Groups are great sources for AI because they showcase real-world discussions and user-generated content.
Take the example of our client, Build Formula, which benefited hugely from this strategy. Users often ask:
- “What’s a better alternative to Oracle real estate management software in India?”
Instead of relying only on traditional SEO, we:
- Responded to Quora/Reddit threads
- Shared honest comparisons
- Encouraged users to post genuine reviews
Result? ChatGPT now features Build Formula as a top alternative in responses to those queries.
AEO: Easy Tips That Helped Our Clients Rank
AEO is like a focused subset of GEO, built around answering people’s queries clearly and concisely. Here are a few easy-to-implement tips to adapt to this new trend:
Write for people, not for algorithms
AI-driven tools like Google’s AI Overview now prioritise content that directly answers real user questions in a natural, helpful tone. A common mistake? Stuffing keywords without solving actual user problems. Generative engines favour conversational, value-driven content that anticipates intent and offers clear, actionable answers.
Take the example of our client, Rangoli Preschool, which now appears in Google’s AI snippet when users ask about investing in a preschool franchise.
How?
- We researched FAQs like cost breakdowns, support, and training
- Wrote helpful, non-promotional blogs and guides
- Structured content around real user intent
The result? They didn’t just rank, they became the AI answer.
GEO (Geographic Optimization) for AEO
Location-based relevance matters now more than ever. Tools like Google SGE and Copilot use location to personalize responses.
To improve your AEO:
- Add local keywords
- Use regional case studies
- Include location metadata
- Get listed on local directories and forums
In short: What you say matters. But where you say it is equally important.
JJPV Solar, one of our clients, is a classic example of this. When someone near Ahmedabad searches for “top solar panel manufacturers in Ahmedabad,” Google’s AI Overview picks up their link. That’s the power of geographic optimization.
Optimize for Voice Search:
Is your content voice-search ready? According to the Mobile Marketing Association, voice queries in India have grown 270% year-on-year.
Why?
- Elderly or non-literate users prefer voice assistants
To stay ahead:
- Use natural language
- Structure content around spoken queries
- Consider implementing a voice assistant for your site
Let’s Get Your Brand AI-Search Ready
A wise man once said, “The secret of getting ahead is getting started.” If you haven’t yet, now is the time. Make your website or landing page GEO and AEO ready before it starts affecting your visibility (and sales).
We’re Socialee, a digital marketing agency in Ahmedabad with over 10 years of experience. Our team of SEO experts understands how SERP algorithms (and AI tools) work. In a competitive digital world, staying visible means staying relevant. Let’s future-proof your online presence. Reach out to us today.