Digital marketing is evolving fast. You’ve probably heard of SEO (Search Engine Optimization), but now terms like AEO (Answer Engine Optimization) and GEO (Geographic SEO) are making waves. Let’s break down what they mean, how they’re different, and why your business needs to know all three.
What Is SEO? 🔎
Search Engine Optimization (SEO) is the process of improving your website so it ranks higher in Google search results.
Focus: keywords, backlinks, content, site speed, mobile optimization
Goal: get more organic traffic from search engines
Example: ranking your site for “best nail salon in Las Vegas”
👉 SEO is the foundation of online visibility.
What Is AEO? 🤖
Answer Engine Optimization (AEO) is the new wave of SEO. Instead of just ranking in Google, AEO focuses on answer engines like ChatGPT, Alexa, and Google’s AI Overviews.
Focus: structured data, schema markup, concise Q&A style content
Goal: get your business chosen as the direct answer in AI-driven search
Example: showing up when someone asks “What’s the best salon near me?” in an AI chat.
👉 AEO is about optimizing for AI and voice assistants, not just search engines.
What Is GEO? 📍
Geographic SEO (GEO) is about optimizing for local searches so customers near you find your business.
Focus: Google Business Profile, local keywords, map packs, citations
Goal: rank in “near me” searches and dominate local results
Example: appearing in Google Maps when someone searches “nail spa in Henderson NV.”
👉 GEO makes sure local customers see you first.
SEO vs AEO vs GEO: The Breakdown
SEO = traditional search rankings on Google
AEO = optimization for AI-driven answers and voice search
GEO = local SEO targeting specific locations and “near me” searches
Final Word
SEO builds your foundation, GEO puts you on the local map, and AEO prepares you for the future of AI search. If you want to dominate online in 2025, you’ll need all three working together.
👉 Think of it this way: SEO gets you found, GEO gets you local customers, AEO gets you future-proof visibility.