1. START HERE: What is SEO (Search Engine Optimisation)?
Let’s uncomplify it:
SEO = Search Engine Optimisation
It’s how you help Google find you - by using the right words, structure, and content so you pop up in search results.
- Someone Googles “beeswax candles”
- You want your biz to show up, not some random candles in another state.
2. But SEO is changing…
Now people are using AI tools, not just Google.
They ask ChatGPT:
“How can I get more clients for my small business?”
Instead of just showing links, it provides an answer, such as a full paragraph of tips or steps.
So now, you want your business to be inside those answers, not just tucked away on page 2 (or worse!) of Google.

3. What Are AEO and GEO (And Why Do They Matter?)
🤓 AEO = Answer Engine Optimisation
Write your content in a way that gives a quick, clear answer.
Perfect for:
- Google’s “featured snippets” (those little boxes at the top)
- Voice searches (Siri, Alexa, etc.)
- FAQ sections that give punchy answers fast
🔸 Think:
Q: What’s a lead magnet?
A: It’s a freebie that gives value - like a checklist, guide or template - in exchange for someone’s email address, so you can keep in touch and build trust over time.
🧠 GEO = Generative Engine Optimisation
This is about getting quoted by AI like ChatGPT or Perplexity.
Perfect for:
- AI-generated summaries
- Tools that don’t list links but explain answers
- Thought-leadership content (blogs, tips, stories)
🔸 Think:
You write a blog post explaining how to plan a month of content in under 60 minutes.
Later, someone asks ChatGPT:
“How do I create a content plan for my business?”
And the AI pulls from your blog:
“According to Hello Media, one simple method is batching content into weekly themes, then repurposing across platforms using a calendar template.”
4. How to Optimise Your Content for SEO, AEO & GEO
✅ To make your content SEO + AEO + GEO-friendly:
- Write like a human, not a robot
- Answer common questions clearly (start with: “What is…”, “How do I…”)
- Use headings and bullet points
- Share tips, stories, and examples (especially real ones!)
- Add a quick summary at the top (your “mini answer”)
5. What Makes Content “AI-Friendly”?
You don’t need to know all the techy bits behind SEO, AEO, and GEO.
But if your content:
- is helpful
- sounds like you
- answers real questions
- and builds trust…
… then search engines and AI tools are more likely to choose your words to share.
6. TL;DR (Too Long, Didn’t Read 😉)
... A Quick Recap: SEO vs AEO vs GEO
- SEO helps you get found on Google
- AEO helps you get chosen as the answer
- GEO helps you get quoted by AI
- Together? You get seen and trusted - even in an AI future
🧠 Frequently Asked Questions (AEO-ready)
Q: What’s the difference between SEO, AEO, and GEO?
SEO helps your content rank in search results.
AEO helps your content get chosen as a direct answer (like in Google snippets or Siri).
GEO helps your content get quoted in AI-generated responses (like ChatGPT or Perplexity).
Q: Do I need both AEO and GEO?
Yep! AEO gets you featured.
GEO gets you referenced.
Together, they make sure your content is seen and trusted by both AI and search engines.
Q: Can I optimise old blog posts for AEO and GEO?
Totally. Just add clear question-style headings, short answers up top, and structure your content in bite-sized, human-friendly chunks.
Q: What is Schema and why do I need it?
Schema (or “structured data”) is like giving Google and AI a cheat sheet about what’s on your page. It helps them understand your content better, especially FAQs, how-tos, and reviews, so they’re more likely to feature your content in answers.
Q: Is this just for big brands or techy types?
No way. In fact, small businesses often have an edge; your content is clearer, more personal, and more relevant. You just need to tweak the way it’s written and structured.
7. Need Help Making Your Content AI-Ready?
Want to show up in Google and ChatGPT answers?
Join SHINE Online Hub! For just $87 AUD per month, you’ll learn how to write content that humans and AI love. You'll get personalised support - every week - on Zoom, you'll get to ask your questions, and join our 2-hour content club each month ... 🔍 Let’s get your words working harder, not louder. Click here to find out more about SHINE ONLINE!