As AI tools like ChatGPT, Google’s AI Mode, and Perplexity evolve into the default way people search, traditional SEO is losing ground fast. Instead, a new focus is emerging: GEO (Generative Engine Optimization). GEO focuses on the methods designed to get your content cited by AI rather than ranked on a result page.
While SEO focuses on keywords and links, GEO centers on structured, factual content that’s easy for AI systems to synthesize. Think concise fact-blocks, schema markup, and data lists built for machine readability.
Why GEO matters today
- AI-powered assistants dominate searches, delivering zero-click responses that cite a few trusted sources. Visibility is no longer about clicks; it’s about mentions and authority.
- Traffic drops are real. Even with stable rankings, sites are seeing fewer clicks, while impressions rise—a clear sign that AI overviews are intercepting audiences before they reach websites.
- Being cited matters more than ranking? Quality and clarity are now more important than keyword density or backlinks; content needs to be format-friendly for generative engines.
How Upright is staying ahead with GEO
At Upright, we’ve embraced GEO as part of a hybrid visibility strategy that includes SEO, AEO (Answer Engine Optimization), and GEO—because being seen in both traditional search and AI-generated answers is essential. We’re:
- Exploring emerging tools that track how AI models refer to our content—measuring citation frequency and tracking brand visibility across generative engines.
- Updating content formats: transforming existing pages into standalone Q&A sections, lists, and schema-rich blocks designed for AI digestion.
- Integrating analytics: blending traditional SERP metrics with brand‑share tracking in AI responses—ensuring we measure visibility, not just clicks.
- Testing GEO tools to monitor which platforms (like ChatGPT, Perplexity, or Google AI Mode) are citing our content—and how often. These tools will eventually replace traditional search engine rankings reports.
What we’re doing now
- Content audits: identifying pages that rank well now but aren’t structured for GEO.
- Content redesigns: adding bullet‑point summaries, question headers, and easy‑to‑cite facts.
- Tool evaluation: trialing platforms that monitor generative engine mentions and integrate LLM visibility reporting.
- Proof‑point testing: running live queries across AI systems to see where Upright content surfaces.
The bottom line
GEO isn’t a replacement for SEO—it’s the evolution of it. For businesses that care about sustained visibility and credibility, optimizing for AI visibility is the next frontier. Upright is actively investing in GEO tools, content formats, and measurement strategies so our clients stay at the forefront as search shifts.
We’re ready to help your business adapt, whether you want to rebuild existing content or launch new GEO-informed campaigns. Reach out when you’re ready to ensure your content is discoverable by both people and AI.
Further Reading
SEO Is Dead. Say Hello to GEO. (NY Mag)
From SEO to GEO: How AI Is Redefining Positioning (Telefonica)
GEO vs SEO: Understanding the Paradigm Shift (WPSEO AI)
Brands Press Enter: GEO to Show Up More in AI Searches (ET Tech)