Hello, community! While most people still use Google to search for information, AI is slowly pulling the spotlight toward itself. And although it’s not as dramatic as some claim, the future might look very different — which means now is the time to start optimizing your website for AI.
Before we begin, a quick reminder: we’ve already covered whether ChatGPT can replace Google. Highly recommended reading!
How does traditional search differ from AI search?
From the user’s point of view, the difference between searching on Google and asking ChatGPT is minimal: you ask a question — you get an answer. The only noticeable difference is in the format of the response.
However, the algorithms behind these systems are completely different. That means our optimization strategy must change too. It’s no longer just about ranking on Google’s first page — now we also need to make sure AI recommends us.
It’s equally important to maintain balance so you don’t lose traffic, since some AI optimization methods can contradict traditional SEO practices.
When generating search results, Google focuses on:
- SEO optimization. Number of articles, keyword density, contextual relevance, etc. Information is the key factor.
- Behavioral factors. How long users stay on your page also affects ranking.
- Website authority. Number and quality of backlinks.
- Technical performance. Page speed, absence of malicious code, etc.
In contrast, AI systems often rely on Google’s own work. They reference open data, indexed content, and website authority. The AI’s answers are synthesized from thousands or even millions of pages, mixing bits of information from multiple sources instead of citing one directly.
GEO vs SEO
In AI optimization, we’re seeing a shift from SEO to GEO — Generative Engine Optimization. While SEO focuses on backlinks and keywords, GEO works differently.
GEO is the process of optimizing a website for generative AI systems like ChatGPT or Grok. The main focus is on the quality of information. Keyword-stuffed content that makes no real sense (hello, old-school SEO) simply won’t work here.
Your content must be structured and authoritative for AI to use it in answers. It’s not just about making statements — you need to back them up with expert quotes. It’s not about dry text — it’s about a reliable, practical guide that genuinely helps readers solve their problems.
In fact, GEO can make your website better overall. Unlike traditional SEO, which often sacrifices writing style (and sometimes logic) for optimization, GEO encourages clarity and value. But does that mean we should abandon SEO completely and focus solely on AI optimization? Let’s explore that next.
How do generative AI algorithms work?
Let’s get more specific. Researchers from FirstPageSage released an excellent study summarizing what different AI models prioritize. Their methodology was simple: they made various AI queries, then analyzed the answers and the sources behind them.
Their findings looked like this:
The main criterion for any AI model is the authority of the source. Another often-overlooked factor is online reviews.
We highly recommend checking out the study linked above. As FirstPageSage notes, there’s still little reliable information about GEO — their research may well become the foundation for understanding how this system works.
Which is more important: ranking in search or being recommended by AI?
Now let’s talk priorities. Let’s be realistic and analyze this based on the current landscape.
When your site ranks on Google’s first page, every click is a potential conversion. Even if users don’t buy anything, their visits contribute to engagement and help your site grow organically.
AI, however, doesn’t always include links. It generates a synthesized answer using parts of your content — sometimes mentioning your site, sometimes not. If there’s no link, users won’t visit your site. So AI exposure mainly helps with the following:
- Boosting brand recognition and reputation;
- Expanding reach — though it might be minimal in direct traffic terms.
Still, that visibility shouldn’t be underestimated. Ignoring GEO is a mistake — especially if it complements, rather than conflicts with, your SEO strategy.
Conclusion
GEO is still a young field, and researchers are only beginning to understand how AI systems categorize and prioritize information.
We’ll never get official details — to prevent system abuse — just as Google doesn’t disclose how its algorithms work. That’s normal. But thanks to researchers like FirstPageSage, we’re slowly learning how to optimize websites for AI-driven results.
What do you think about how neural networks operate? Do you understand how their algorithms work, or have you never thought about it before? Share your opinion in our Telegram community — the best affiliate marketing community in Ukraine!
With respect, your Geek!