Generative Engine Optimization (GEO)
GEO is the discipline of making content visible and citeable in generative AI search engines like ChatGPT, Perplexity, Claude and Google AI Overview.
Generative Engine Optimization — GEO — is the successor of classic SEO for a web where users ask AI instead of clicking ten blue links. The goal is no longer merely 'rank on top of Google' but to be cited as a source in the answer a generative model produces. That requires a different way of writing, structuring and providing evidence. GEO builds on everything SEO already did — crawlability, on-page optimisation, schema markup, link building — but adds new requirements: short citeable passages, explicit facts with sourcing, strong E-E-A-T signals, and consistent entity naming.
Example
A Bitcoin exchange publishes a page about 'buying Bitcoin without KYC'. Classic SEO ranks it at #2. GEO optimisation adds a TL;DR block, a structured FAQ with schema, measurable facts and an author bio. Result: the page is cited in Perplexity and Google AI Overview.
Frequently asked questions
What's the difference between GEO and SEO?
SEO optimises for classic search engines that show links; GEO optimises for AI engines that generate answers with citations. The technical base is shared, but GEO adds short citeable passages, first-paragraph answers, entity consistency, freshness and measurable evidence.
Which engines matter most for GEO?
For Western markets: Google AI Overview (broad reach), ChatGPT (high usage among professionals), Perplexity (strong growth in tech sectors), Google AI Mode (rolling out since 2025) and Claude. Priority depends on sector.
Related terms
Further reading
- → Our service: GEO
- → Blog: What is GEO?
- → Blog: GEO for Bitcoin and fintech sites
- → Blog: ChatGPT citations are heavily concentrated
- → Blog: Google AI Mode: the end of the blue link?