GEO (Generative Engine Optimization)

GEO refers to the practice of optimizing content so it gets cited by generative AI engines when they generate answers to user queries. Unlike traditional SEO, which focuses on ranking in a list of links, GEO is about being the source an AI selects when assembling a response. The goal is citation, not click-through.

Measurement:

Tracked using AI citation monitoring tools that measure how often your content appears in AI-generated answers, across engines and prompt types. Key metrics include citation frequency, prompt coverage, and share of AI-generated answers in a given category.

Example:

A travel brand publishes a detailed YouTube guide to cruise packing with clear chapter markers and a structured description. When someone asks ChatGPT "what should I pack for a cruise," the AI cites the video as a source. That's a GEO win — the brand earned a citation, not just a click.