Google Search Advocate John Mueller responded to a Reddit consumer who requested whether or not website positioning continues to be “sufficient,” or if entrepreneurs now want to consider generative engine optimization (GEO).

Mueller’s reply was easy: labels matter lower than actuality.

  • “When you have an internet enterprise that makes cash from referred site visitors, it’s undoubtedly a good suggestion to contemplate the complete image, and prioritize accordingly.”

AI isn’t going away. Mueller didn’t get into the name debate or verify GEO as a brand new self-discipline, however he made it clear AI is right here to remain:

  • “What you name it doesn’t matter, however ‘AI’ is just not going away.”

Up to now, Google, has pushed again on the concept AI optimization ought to be handled as one thing separate from website positioning. See:

Ignore hype. Mueller urged folks to deal with precise viewers habits. (“Be reasonable and take a look at precise utilization metrics and perceive your viewers.”) He steered asking sensible questions, like:

  • How a lot of your viewers truly makes use of AI instruments?
  • How does that examine with search, social, or different channels?
  • What does that imply for the place you make investments time and sources?

Why we care. website positioning nonetheless drives site visitors and income. Nevertheless, you shouldn’t assume that search visibility robotically interprets into AI visibility. As a result of it doesn’t 100% of the time – even when many website positioning greatest practices overlap with GEO.

What he mentioned. Right here’s Mueller’s full quote from Reddit:

  • “When you have an internet enterprise that makes cash from referred site visitors, it’s undoubtedly a good suggestion to contemplate the complete image, and prioritize accordingly. What you name it doesn’t matter, however ‘AI’ is just not going away, however eager about how your website’s worth works in a world the place ‘AI’ is obtainable is definitely worth the time. Additionally, be reasonable and take a look at precise utilization metrics and perceive your viewers (what % is utilizing ‘AI’? what % is utilizing Fb? what does it imply for the place you spend your time?).”

The Reddit thread. Is SEO still enough, or do we need to start thinking about GEO too?

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Danny Goodwin

Danny Goodwin is Editorial Director of Search Engine Land & Search Marketing Expo – SMX. He joined Search Engine Land in 2022 as Senior Editor. Along with reporting on the newest search advertising and marketing information, he manages Search Engine Land’s SME (Topic Matter Skilled) program. He additionally helps program U.S. SMX occasions.

Goodwin has been enhancing and writing in regards to the newest developments and tendencies in search and digital advertising and marketing since 2007. He beforehand was Government Editor of Search Engine Journal (from 2017 to 2022), managing editor of Momentology (from 2014-2016) and editor of Search Engine Watch (from 2007 to 2014). He has spoken at many main search conferences and digital occasions, and has been sourced for his experience by a variety of publications and podcasts.


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