With the rise of large language models (LLMs) and AI-generated answers, search behavior is changing fast. While traditional SEO (Search Engine Optimization) remains crucial, a new approach is emerging: GEO – Generative Engine Optimization.
At Biggie, we believe understanding both SEO and GEO is key to staying competitive in a world where AI is redefining the rules. So: SEO or GEO? Competing or complementary? Here's what you need to know.
1. SEO and GEO: Two Approaches, One Foundation
SEO
focuses on helping content rank high in classic search engines like Google. Think of the well-known "blue links" in search results. It relies on things like keyword strategy, crawlability, indexing, and matching user intent.
GEO
on the other hand, aims to make your brand visible in AI-generated answers from tools like Google AI Overviews, ChatGPT, Bing Copilot, and Perplexity. The goal isn’t just getting clicks, but being cited as a trusted source directly in the AI’s response.
Example: If someone asks “What’s a good gift for a 12-year-old girl?”, GEO means your brand is named in the answer.
Are they compatible? Absolutely.
As Google’s Danny Sullivan put it: “Good SEO is good GEO.” Both rely on high-quality, clear, user-focused content and on trust and authority (E-E-A-T: Experience, Expertise, Authoritativeness, Trustworthiness).
But their goals and KPIs differ.
2. SEO vs GEO: Goals and Metrics
SEO
- Channel: Traditional search engines
- Goal: Rank high to drive clicks and conversions
- KPIs: Organic traffic, click-through rate, direct revenue
GEO
- Channel: Generative and conversational platforms
- Goal: Be cited as a credible source in AI answers
- KPIs: Brand mentions, share of voice, sentiment, citation rate: even without clicks, these shape trust and drive indirect conversions
As AI decouples impressions from clicks, new metrics emerge. A brand mention in a ChatGPT answer may matter as much as a website visit.
3. How to Adapt SEO and GEO Strategies in 2026
While quality content still wins, the way AI reads and uses that content is changing.
For GEO, content must be machine-readable.
AI breaks down complex questions into smaller sub-questions. To be cited, your content must clearly answer these using structured formats:
- Lists
- Tables
- Definitions
- Original data or insights
Example: An exclusive industry report or study by your brand could be cited in AI responses, if it's clearly organized.
Go beyond your site
GEO is not just about your own website. It’s also about third-party credibility:
- Wikipedia
- News coverage
- Social media visibility
These sources feed the models and influence whether your brand is seen as trustworthy.
SEO is evolving too: Welcome to “Search Everywhere Optimization”
Search doesn’t only happen on Google anymore. People search via TikTok, Instagram, YouTube, Siri, Alexa, and even ChatGPT voice.
Search Everywhere Optimization means making content discoverable across all these touchpoints, customized to each channel.
For example, a well-tagged TikTok video can now rank just as high in influence as a blog post in Google.
4. SEO and GEO: Better Together
People don’t just search one way. They often use both classic search and AI platforms to gather information. Businesses must do the same.
- Use SEO to capture traffic and direct conversions
- Use GEO to build credibility with AI tools and get your brand embedded in answers
This hybrid approach is already key to a modern content strategy.
Conclusion: Prepare for a Hybrid Future
AI isn’t replacing SEO, it’s expanding what visibility looks like.
In the age of AI, being found means more than ranking on page one. It means being recognized by the tools people trust to answer their questions.
By combining SEO for traffic and GEO for trust, your brand can stay visible, relevant, and future-ready.
FAQ: SEO vs GEO
What’s the difference between SEO and GEO?
SEO optimizes a website for Google. GEO optimizes a brand to be cited in AI-generated answers.
Does GEO replace SEO?
No. GEO complements SEO. GEO targets AI answers, while SEO remains essential for driving traffic and conversions.
How can I get cited by ChatGPT or Google AI Overviews?
By publishing clear, structured content with data, lists, definitions, and elements that AI can easily interpret and reuse.
Download our Trendbook
Our TrendBook, the fruit of the hybridization of the agency's know-how, reveals the four major trends in the media and advertising sector, deciphered by our experts:
- How to capture consumers in the age of the Messy Funnel;
- Why AI is emerging as a cultural revolution;
- How television is becoming plural;
- Why influencer marketing has reached the age of maturity.
