Answer the question. Show why the answer is trustworthy.
AI-assisted search changes how people explore options, but it still depends on information that is accessible, specific and credible.
Start with customer questions
Use sales conversations, support requests and search data to identify questions that affect a decision. Answer them plainly and add the detail needed to evaluate the answer.
- Write one concise answer near the top of the relevant page
- Add context, qualifications and a useful next step
- Keep definitions and claims consistent across the site
Make source quality visible
A clear byline, first-hand expertise, accurate business details and references to primary sources help a reader judge a claim. Add only evidence your team can stand behind.
- Use named authors when they contribute real expertise
- Cite original or authoritative sources for factual claims
- Date and review material when facts can change
Support, do not game, discovery
Semantic structure and accurate schema can help systems interpret a page. They are not a shortcut to a citation.
Before you decide
Can AEO guarantee that ChatGPT or Google cites my business?
No. Answer systems choose sources and format results independently. AEO improves clarity and evidence, but citation decisions are outside an agency’s control.
Do I need an llms.txt file?
It is not a substitute for crawlable pages, useful content or accurate site information. We evaluate it only if it has a clear purpose for your site.
Is AEO separate from SEO?
They overlap. A strong source should be useful to people, accessible to search crawlers and clearly organized for different discovery experiences.
Further reading
Primary documentation behind this topic.
Let’s talk about the work your business actually needs.
Share your website, service area and goals. We’ll discuss fit and a sensible scope.