The video critiques Google's article 'Good SEO is Good GEO,' acknowledging that foundational SEO remains crucial for AI search but pointing out inaccuracies, such as the dismissal of inauthentic mentions and the need for keyword targeting. It emphasizes the importance of unique content, web experience, and focusing on business metrics.
A short editorial from the VEONIB team on why this content matters.
Google's 'Good SEO is Good GEO' is a useful reminder that foundational SEO matters, but it oversimplifies the reality of AI search optimization. Marketers must adapt SEO fundamentals to new AI-driven surfaces while avoiding misleading tactics.
SEONIB highlights that while Google downplays the need for keyword targeting and claims inauthentic mentions don't work, real-world examples show otherwise. A balanced approach—combining foundational SEO with strategic keyword use and authentic content—is essential for long-term GEO success.
Watch this video if you're a marketer or SEO professional, then audit your current SEO strategy to ensure it includes proper keyword targeting and unique, first-hand content to thrive in AI search.
Generative Engine Optimization, the practice of optimizing content to be cited or recommended by AI-driven search engines and chatbots.
Core search engine optimization practices like keyword targeting, quality content, and technical health that remain essential for AI search.
Google's AI-generated answer boxes that appear at the top of search results, summarizing information from multiple sources.
A technique where an AI system expands a user's prompt into multiple search queries to gather a wider range of results.
Fake or manipulated brand mentions across the web, often used to influence AI search results, but risky due to potential penalties.
Unique, first-hand, expert content that provides value beyond generic reviews, making it a competitive advantage in search.
A proposed text file to help large language models understand a website's content, but not currently used by Google or top SEO companies.
Google's free tool for monitoring site performance, now including AI feature impressions but not clicks.
Is foundational SEO still effective for AI search?
Yes, Google's AI features are built on the same ranking systems, so foundational SEO like quality content and keyword targeting remains the best strategy.
Does Google's claim that inauthentic mentions don't work hold true?
No, inauthentic mentions can temporarily boost visibility, but they carry high risk of penalties and are not a sustainable strategy.
Do you need to target keywords for GEO?
Yes, placing keywords in titles, H1s, URLs, and first sentences is still necessary for both SEO and GEO, despite Google's suggestion to write naturally.
Are LLMs.txt files necessary for Google Search?
No, Google does not use them, and top SEO companies don't either. Tests show they have no effect on rankings.
What metrics does Google Search Console provide for AI features?
It shows impressions from AI features but not clicks, which is a limitation for measuring actual performance.
How can brands create content that stands out in AI search?
Focus on unique, first-hand expertise and real-world stories, but also ensure you target relevant keywords to attract organic traffic.
Is it enough to just be helpful for SEO?
Being helpful is key, but it must be combined with clear keyword targeting and addressing search intent quickly to satisfy both users and search engines.
What is the best way to measure GEO success?
Focus on business goals like leads and sales, not just impressions, and use Search Console data as a baseline, not the final metric.
Should brands chase inauthentic mentions for GEO?
No, they may work short-term but risk penalties. Instead, build authentic authority and unique content that earns mentions naturally.
What is the biggest misconception about GEO?
That it requires entirely new tactics; in reality, foundational SEO with a focus on user intent and quality content is the foundation for GEO success.