What is GEO? A Guide to Generative Engine Optimization

The shift from SEO to GEO

Search is changing. Millions of users now ask ChatGPT, Perplexity, Gemini, and Grok instead of typing into Google. These Generative Engines don't return a list of blue links — they synthesize a single, authoritative answer and cite the sources they trust.

Generative Engine Optimization (GEO) is the practice of making your brand one of those cited sources.

How GEO differs from SEO

| SEO | GEO
Goal | Rank on a results page | Be cited in an AI-generated answer
Signal | Keywords, backlinks, page speed | Authority, structured data, citation patterns
Measurement | Position 1–10 | Citation rate across AI engines
Content | Keyword-optimized pages | Authoritative, well-sourced content

Why it matters now

40% of search traffic will shift to AI by 2028 (Gartner)

70% of consumers already use AI instead of traditional search (Capgemini)

72% of B2B buyers use AI to research vendors (Forrester)

If your brand isn't being cited by AI engines today, you're invisible to a growing share of your audience.

Getting started with GEO

Audit your AI visibility — Check whether AI engines cite your brand for relevant queries

Identify citation gaps — Find prompts where competitors appear but you don't

Optimize your content — Create authoritative, well-structured content that AI engines trust

Monitor and iterate — Track citation rates over time and adjust strategy

Aeolo automates every step of this process. Request beta access to see your AI visibility score.