Getting listed on Google used to be all about keywords and backlinks.
Today? It’s AEO + GEO + SEO — and mastering all three can put your business everywhere your customers are searching.
Let’s break it down, and then I’ll show you how to get ranked in all three areas.
🔍 What is SEO (Search Engine Optimization)?
SEO is the process of optimizing your website to rank higher in organic search results.
It helps you show up when someone types a query like:
“Best project management tool for teams”
SEO involves:
✅ Keyword research
✅ High-quality content
✅ Technical setup (site speed, mobile-friendliness, etc.)
✅ Backlinks from other websites
✅ On-page structure (H1s, meta descriptions, etc.)
If you want your site to rank in the classic search results — SEO is non-negotiable.
📍 What is GEO (Local SEO)?
GEO or Local SEO is about showing up when someone is searching in your area, often through Google Maps or the “local pack” on search.
For example:
“Coffee shop near me”
“Best dentist in Boston”
Google detects the location of the user and delivers results nearby.
GEO involves:
✅ Creating/claiming your Google Business Profile
✅ Using local keywords (e.g., “law firm in Austin”)
✅ Collecting positive Google reviews
✅ Adding your NAP (Name, Address, Phone) consistently across the web
✅ Local citations (getting listed on directories like Yelp, YellowPages, etc.)
GEO is essential for brick-and-mortar businesses and local service providers.
🧠 What is AEO (Answer Engine Optimization)?
AEO is about optimizing your content to get picked up by Google’s AI-driven answer systems — think:
Featured snippets
People Also Ask (PAA) boxes
Voice search results (Siri, Google Assistant)
Example query:
“How to change a flat tire?”
Google wants to serve the best direct answer, and AEO helps you become that answer.
AEO involves:
✅ Structuring content clearly (FAQs, step-by-step guides)
✅ Using schema markup (like FAQPage, HowTo, etc.)
✅ Covering intent-based questions
✅ Optimizing for voice (natural, conversational phrasing)
✅ Prioritizing mobile and fast loading
AEO is your best friend for brand visibility even if people don’t click — because you’re the answer.
🎯 How to Rank in All 3: A Practical Strategy
Let’s say you run a fitness coaching business in Chicago. Here’s how you’d optimize for all three:
1️⃣ SEO:
Write blog posts like “Top 5 Fitness Mistakes Beginners Make”
Use keywords like “online fitness coach” or “strength training programs”
Make sure your site is fast, mobile-friendly, and technically sound
2️⃣ GEO:
Claim and optimize your Google Business Profile
Ask happy clients to leave reviews
Include your Chicago location in your page titles and content
List your business on local directories (Yelp, Bing, Foursquare)
3️⃣ AEO:
Add an FAQ section like:
- “How long does a fitness transformation take?”
- “What should I eat after working out?”
Use schema markup to help Google understand your answers
Format some content in bullet points or numbered lists
Create short explainer videos and embed them
📌 It’s A Wrap-Up!
AEO, GEO, and SEO aren’t separate strategies. They’re a stack.
Used together, they help you:
- Get found via regular searches
- Show up in your local market
The businesses that win the most real estate on search results… are the ones that layer all three.
Want help optimizing for all three? Start with Google Business Profile and a FAQ page — those are quick wins most people overlook.
