Generative Engine Optimization
Definition
Getting AI systems to recommend and cite your brand in generated responses. You combine clear, citable content with strong authority signals off-site. It's about becoming the reference that AI systems think of first when users ask questions in your category.
Why It Matters
AI-first users never see your website. They ask ChatGPT or Claude which solution to pick. If you're not cited in that response, you lost the lead before they visited. GEO is how you win visibility in the AI recommendation layer.
How to Improve
- Publish original research with numbers competitors can't find elsewhere. AI loves citing original data.
- Get mentioned by respected industry sites and publications. Off-site credibility signals matter to language models.
- Use consistent headers and structure. Make your content easy for models to understand and reference.
- Search your brand name plus 'AI' in Claude/ChatGPT monthly. See if you're getting cited. If not, investigate why.