seo – Page 2

Has A.I. Killed the SEO Star? SEO, GEO, and AEO for Modern Digital Marketing

Last Updated: May 5, 2025

If you’ve been around digital marketing even a little, you’ve heard of SEO (Search Engine Optimization.) You know the drill: use the right keywords, build some solid backlinks, and boom, your website shows up on Google when someone types in “water heater installation Boston MA.”

But in 2025, the game’s evolving. A lot.

Thanks to the rise of AI-powered assistants (like Alexa and Siri) and chat-based search (like ChatGPT, Gemini, Perplexity, and Grok), it’s no longer just about ranking on Google. It’s about showing up in the answers AI gives people. Even Google is using Gemini to show you AI answers to your searches, right at the top of the search results. This is why AEO (Answer Engine Optimization) and GEO (Generative Engine Optimization) are becoming so critical.

Let’s break it all down.

SEO: The Classic Crowd-Pleaser

Goal: Rank high on Google (and other search engines) when someone searches for services you offer.
Focus: Keywords, structure, speed, backlinks.

Let’s say you’re a plumber in Boston. You create a page like:

Title Tag: Water Heater Installation Boston MA | Boston Hot Water Pros
H1: Water Heater Installation in Boston, MA
Meta Description: Need water heater installation in Boston, MA? Call now for fast, affordable service!

Your content hits the right phrases—“plumbing in Boston,” “tankless water heaters,” “Boston water heater repair”—and you throw in a Google Map, a few local backlinks, and you’re cookin’.

Outcome: Your page shows up when someone Googles “water heater installation Boston MA.” Clicks start coming in.

AEO: Talk Like a Human (Because AI Is Listening)

Goal: Be the go-to answer when someone asks their phone or smart speaker a question.
Focus: Conversational tone, FAQ-style answers, schema markup.

People don’t always search like they used to. Now, they ask:

“Who installs water heaters near me?”
“How long does it take to install a water heater?”
“What’s the cost of a tankless water heater in Boston?”

To show up in voice searches or smart assistant answers, your content needs to match that Q&A format:

H1: Who Does Water Heater Installation in Boston, MA?
Subheading: How much does it cost?
- On average, between $800–$1,500 depending on the unit.
Subheading: How long does it take?
- Most jobs take 2–4 hours for our team.

Outcome: Someone asks ChatGPT or Grok, “How long does it take to install a water heater in Boston?” and you’re the answer.

GEO: Win the AI Brain Game

Goal: Be the source that tools like ChatGPT reference when crafting detailed responses.
Focus: Authority, clarity, structure, and originality.

This is where content starts doing real heavy lifting. AI bots don’t just look for keywords, they understand what’s helpful, unique, and well-explained. Your job? Be the expert voice they lean on.

So instead of a sales-y blurb, you write something like:

“In 2024, over 65% of Boston homeowners upgraded to tankless water heaters, according to the Boston Plumbing Association.”

“Because of Boston’s hard water, traditional tank heaters wear out 20% faster, so going tankless often saves in the long run.”

Break it down into steps. Add data. Speak like a pro. Be the plumber who’s not just trying to rank, but trying to teach.

Outcome: Someone asks an AI, “What’s the best way to install a water heater in Boston?” and it replies:

“Boston Hot Water Pros recommends tankless units for Boston’s hard water. Installation usually takes 2–4 hours and costs between $1,000–$1,500.”

Boom. You’re the authority.

Quick Comparison: SEO vs. AEO vs. GEO

Keyword Focus

SEO: Heavy

AEO: Moderate (natural questions)

GEO: Light (broad relevance)

Content Style

SEO: Keyword-rich

AEO: FAQ/conversational

GEO: Expert-level, detailed

Length

SEO: ~700 words

AEO: ~500 words

GEO: 900+ words

Structure

SEO: Ranked sections

AEO: Q&A format

GEO: Bullet points, tables, step-by-step

Target Platform

SEO: Google SERPs

AEO: Voice search / AI assistants

GEO: ChatGPT, Google’s AI Overviews

Local Detail

SEO: Basic (address, map)

AEO: Specific (neighborhood examples)

GEO: Deep (e.g., local stats, trends)

So… What Should You Do?

Honestly? Start with strong SEO. It lays the groundwork. If you’re using keywords like “emergency plumber Boston” or “tankless water heater install in Dorchester,” you’re already headed in the right direction.

Then, sprinkle in some AEO magic:

Add an FAQ section.
Use natural questions as subheadings.
Keep answers tight and scannable.

Finally, beef it up for GEO:

Drop in unique insights and local stats.
Use clear formatting—bullet points, charts, comparisons.
Write like an expert, not a salesman.

Final Thoughts

AI isn’t killing SEO, it’s evolving it. The goal now is to be the best answer, whether someone’s typing into Google, asking their phone, or chatting with a bot.

Your website is no longer just a brochure, it’s a resource. A guide. A trusted voice.

So next time you’re updating a service page, ask yourself:

“Would this help me if I were the customer?”

If the answer is yes, chances are… the search engines (and AI) will think so too.

Want help giving your service pages a glow-up that works for SEO, AEO and GEO? Drop us a line. We speak fluent Google and robot.

SEO, GEO, and AEO FAQs

What is Answer Engine Optimization (AEO) in digital marketing?

Answer Engine Optimization (AEO) focuses on formatting your content in a conversational Q&A style and using schema markup so that AI assistants and voice search devices can deliver your answers directly to users.

What is Generative Engine Optimization (GEO) and how does it differ from SEO and AEO?

Generative Engine Optimization (GEO) is about creating authoritative, detailed content with unique data, bullet points, and expert insights so that generative AI tools reference your website when crafting their answers, whereas Search Engine Optimization (SEO) focuses on ranking in search results and Answer Engine Optimization (AEO) focuses on voice and Q&A formatting.

What is traditional Search Engine Optimization (SEO), and why is SEO still important?

Search Engine Optimization (SEO) is the practice of optimizing keywords, site structure, page speed, and backlinks to rank high in Google SERPs, and it remains important because it lays the foundation for visibility and traffic before applying AEO and GEO strategies.

How has AI impacted traditional SEO practices?

AI has shifted emphasis from purely keyword-based tactics to more user-centric content formats, pushing marketers to adopt conversational tone, structured Q&A, and authoritative data to satisfy AI assistants and chat-based search engines.

Is SEO Dead? Did AI make SEO obsolete?

AI does not kill SEO but evolves it: websites must now serve as resources by providing clear answers for AI, voice search, and generative models, combining traditional SEO fundamentals with AEO and GEO enhancements.

How can businesses integrate SEO, AEO, and GEO into a cohesive content strategy?

Businesses should start with strong Search Engine Optimization (SEO) foundations, then add Answer Engine Optimization (AEO) elements like FAQ sections and natural question subheadings, and finally layer in Generative Engine Optimization (GEO) by including unique insights, local data, and expert commentary.

What are the best practices for optimizing content for voice search and AI assistants?

Optimizing for voice search and AI assistants involves using natural, conversational headings in a Q&A format, including Answer Engine Optimization (AEO) schema markup, and providing concise, human-friendly answers that directly address common customer questions.

What steps should businesses take to adapt their website for SEO, AEO, and GEO?

To adapt for SEO, AEO, and GEO, businesses should: 1) Implement strong SEO fundamentals with targeted keywords and local backlinks, 2) Add AEO-focused FAQ sections with schema markup, and 3) Enhance GEO by publishing expert-level content with original data, bullet-point breakdowns, and clear formatting.

SEO Myth-Busting: The Truth About Landing Pages

Last Updated: March 3, 2025

First things first: A landing page needs to be on your website’s domain. If it isn’t, then it’s not a landing page—it’s a completely separate website, even if it’s only a single page. This distinction is crucial because many business owners are being misled by marketers who claim otherwise. This myth can end up hurting your SEO and wasting your marketing efforts.

The False Promise: “Landing Pages on Other Domains Boost Traffic!”

Some marketers might try to convince you that placing landing pages on different domains is a clever way to boost traffic or “hack” Google’s system. They might claim that this tactic can somehow give you an edge in search rankings or drive more leads. But here’s the reality: creating landing pages on different domains does not give you an SEO advantage. In fact, it can do the opposite.

The Reality: What Landing Pages Are and Aren’t

A landing page is a tool designed to guide visitors toward a specific action, like signing up for a newsletter, requesting a quote, or making a purchase. However, to be an effective part of your marketing strategy, it must reside on your main domain. For example, if your website is www.yourwebsite.com, your landing page should look something like www.yourwebsite.com/landing-page. When it’s hosted on your main domain, it contributes to your site’s overall SEO health and authority.

If you create a page on a different domain (like www.someotherdomain.com), Google treats it as an entirely separate website. This means you’re splitting your SEO power between multiple sites instead of building authority on one, which can confuse search engines and weaken your online presence.

Why This Myth Hurts Your Business

Let’s break down why the myth of off-domain landing pages is harmful:

Diluted SEO Efforts: By placing landing pages on different domains, you’re fragmenting your SEO. Instead of building the authority of your main site, you’re spreading it thin across multiple domains. Google sees each domain as a separate entity, reducing your chances of ranking higher in search results.
Visitor Confusion: Sending visitors to a different domain can confuse them. If they expect to be on your website but are redirected elsewhere, this can break trust and reduce the likelihood of conversions.
Wasted Resources: Creating and maintaining multiple domains requires additional time and effort, without offering any real SEO benefit to your primary site.

The Honest Truth About Landing Pages

Landing pages are valuable, but they aren’t a loophole to exploit Google’s algorithms. Here’s what they actually do:

Drive Specific Actions: A landing page is a focused tool designed to funnel visitors toward a specific action—whether that’s filling out a form, clicking a button, or making a purchase. But this focus should happen on your domain, reinforcing your website’s authority.
Optimize for Relevancy: When properly used, landing pages can improve your website’s SEO by providing relevant, targeted content that aligns with user searches and marketing campaigns.
Boost PPC Campaigns: Landing pages are incredibly effective for Pay-Per-Click (PPC) campaigns. By directing highly-targeted traffic to a page specifically built around the ad’s message, you can improve relevancy scores, drive down costs, and increase conversions. But again, this only works if the landing page is part of your main domain.

The Real Power of Landing Pages: PPC Campaigns

Landing pages can be a game-changer for your PPC campaigns. When they’re hosted on your main domain and aligned with your ads, they can:

Improve Relevancy Scores: PPC platforms like Google Ads value relevancy. When your landing page closely matches the content of your ad, Google sees this as a positive signal, improving your relevancy scores. Higher relevancy means lower costs per click and better ad placements.
Increase Conversions: A landing page that’s tailored to the ad’s message creates a seamless user experience, making visitors more likely to convert. This is a win-win for both your PPC performance and your overall website goals.

Best Practices for Landing Pages

To avoid falling into the trap of off-domain landing pages, focus on the following best practices:

Keep It on Your Domain: Always host your landing pages on your main website. This not only boosts your SEO but also ensures a cohesive experience for your visitors.
Streamline the Experience: Use landing pages to create a focused, distraction-free environment. Minimize navigation options to keep visitors on the path toward your desired action.
Align with Your PPC Strategy: Tailor your landing pages to match the message and intent of your PPC ads. This approach maximizes your ad spend’s effectiveness by increasing conversions and lowering costs.
Provide Clear Value: Use compelling content and a strong call to action to guide visitors toward a specific goal. Remember, the purpose of a landing page is not to trick search engines but to provide a clear, valuable path for your audience.

Protecting Your Business from SEO Myths

If someone is telling you that landing pages on different domains are the secret to driving traffic and boosting SEO, they’re selling you a myth. Quality landing pages are a powerful tool, but they must live on your main domain to be effective. They’re not about gaming the system; they’re about offering targeted, valuable experiences that drive conversions and support your website’s overall goals.

Don’t let yourself be taken advantage of by misleading marketing tactics. A solid landing page strategy—rooted in best practices and honesty—will always serve your business better in the long run. In SEO and online marketing, there are no magic tricks—just smart strategies and consistent effort.

Genius Success Story: Robust Recovery Thanks to Seasoned SEO

Last Updated: October 19, 2021

In our weekly “Genius Success Stories” series, we showcase clients that have used our program to positively impact their small businesses. Check back each week to see a new success story!

Ready for another installment of optimism in the time of COVID?

Discount Appliances Repair – HVAC is a small business in Arlington, VA, that saw a significant drop-off in jobs and new leads this spring due to the pandemic. Spring is usually a busy season for them, as you can see from the 2019 data below:

However, when the pandemic locked down businesses and residents alike in March and April, the appliance repair company’s numbers took a hit. In the chart above, you can see how few leads they got in April and May 2020 compared to the previous year.

Thankfully, though, Discount Appliances Repair – HVAC was able to bounce right back as soon as pandemic restrictions were lifted. In fact, they’ve consistently been receiving over 50 leads per month since the summer!

We credit their rapid comeback to the vitality of their pre-COVID web presence. Not only have they had an ongoing SEO campaign with Prospect Genius since 2014, but they’ve also amassed stellar customer reviews on their Google Maps listing.

These two components—a seasoned SEO campaign and a high business rating on Google Maps—reinforced the company’s foundation and prevented a prolonged downturn in the wake of the pandemic.

Think of it this way: Their dynamic web presence acted like a robust immune system. Even though they were temporarily hurt by the coronavirus, they were able to recover quickly and come back stronger than ever!

Genius Success Story: Over One Thousand Calls Per Month?!

Last Updated: October 19, 2021

We’re back with another success story, and boy do we have a doozy for you this week!

Shout out to Suncoast Sound, a car audio company in Monroe, LA, for topping over one thousand calls per month!

They’ve been with us since the beginning—all the way back in 2009. (Gosh, we feel old…)

Over the last 10+ years, we’ve watched their website and corresponding marketing campaign really take off. As a result, their inbound leads have multiplied year after year. See for yourself:

As you can see, COVID-19 appeared to have zero negative effect on their numbers this spring and summer. In fact, they got more calls than ever before, peaking at 1,712 in June!

And it’s no wonder Suncoast Sound is getting so many calls every month—because they’ve got the #1 spot on Google Maps. Look:

This is why search engine rankings matter. With a highly visible placement in the top spot, you could potentially pull in thousands of calls per month just like Suncoast Sound has done.

This kind of exponential growth is a perfect demonstration of how a smart SEO program is a long-term investment. It more than pays for itself when you have patience and stick with it for the long haul.

Of course, all the SEO magic in the world won’t help your business if you’re getting negative customer reviews on Google. So, kudos to Suncoast Sound for maintaining an impressive 4.2 rating! That high score undoubtedly plays a role in convincing so many people to call them for service.

Congrats again to the whole team at Suncoast Sound on all of your success!

Which of These Online Marketing Strategies Will Be Your Next Step?

Last Updated: February 15, 2024

“What are the best next steps for my marketing?”
This is a question we hear a lot from our clients. As your small business’s online marketing campaign flourishes, it’s natural to wonder what you can do to multiply your success. Regardless of which online marketing strategy from Prospect Genius you’re currently using, there’s a way for you to keep climbing the ladder, if that’s what you want.
Of course, what you do next depends largely on what you’ve already done. You can’t just start hiking halfway up a mountain, right? You have to start at the bottom and work your way to the top.
So, in this post, we’ll explore your options for advancement based on which of our online marketing strategies you’ve already succeeded with. Let’s dive in!

First, the Bare Necessities

Before you can try any advanced online marketing strategies, these are your must-haves:

Basic website
Google Maps listing

Basic website: You’ve heard the old saying, “All roads lead to Rome.” Well, when we’re talking about your online presence, all roads lead to your website. An optimized website forms the basis of your online presence because it’s tied to every listing and gives your business the SEO fuel it needs. Find out more about the connection between websites and local search in this blog post. (And remember, a website must be optimized for mobile devices as well as desktop computers!)
Google Maps listing: Since Google Maps listings are tied directly to Google’s search engine and algorithms, having one is absolutely, 100% essential. You can’t have a local web presence without one. Read more about Google maps listing optimization on our website.
This is why the overwhelming majority of our clients purchase both a CoreSite and Google Maps optimization.

Now, Choose Your Own Adventure

Once you have these fundamentals covered, you can take your own path. Here are the online marketing strategies to consider:

SEO content writing
More directory listings
Paid advertising
Social media outreach
Paid social media advertising
Remarketing

SEO content writing (a.k.a. Ghost Writing): Add more pages to your CoreSite to target specific keywords. This boosts your SEO and, therefore, your local search rankings. More visibility means more visitors to your site!
More directory listings (a.k.a. Directory Dominator): Push your business’s information into all the right directories. The more your business info appears on quality websites, the stronger your SEO and local web presence will be. This option works great when you already have lots of website content, but it can be effective on its own as well.
Paid advertising (a.k.a. Pay-Per-Click): As we like to say, “Why walk when you can run?” Boost your visibility in local search by promoting your business in sponsored ads. They appear right at the top of the search results page. For best results, do this after you’ve optimized your website.
Social media outreach (a.k.a. SocialStream and/or SocialBuzz): Put yourself on the social media platforms where your customers are already spending their time! In competitive industries, it isn’t enough to be visible in Google results. You also need to interact and engage with your customers on Facebook and Twitter to demonstrate your accessibility. Since social media doesn’t add much SEO-wise, we don’t advise focusing on this until you feel you’ve fully optimized your website and directory listings.
Paid social media advertising (a.k.a. Facebook Ads): Get even more exposure on social media by sponsoring your own posts. This is next-level social media outreach for businesses that already have a well-established presence.
Remarketing: Go beyond sponsored ads on Google. Remarketing allows you to target ads at people who previously visited your site, so your business and brand stay top of mind. This is another next-level option, so be sure you’ve maximized your website’s SEO as much as possible before investing in it.

Consider These Outside Add-Ons

After you’ve achieved a certain level of success with our online marketing strategies, you may wish to add a service or two that Prospect Genius doesn’t offer ourselves. For example, you may want to leverage:

Customer review aggregators
E-mail marketing blasts
Professional answering services

Customer review aggregators: These services contact customers on your behalf and request reviews from them. Then, you can add those reviews to your website. In the past, we’ve had success using Customer Lobby for our own customer review needs.
E-mail marketing blasts: Want to keep your customers up to date on special deals and company news? Communicate en masse with the help of an e-mail marketing service. We like ActiveCampaign and MailChimp.
Professional answering services: If you’re too busy to answer the phone when customers call, enlist a remote answering service. They answer your calls with professionalism and record all your messages. We have a partnership with Professional Answering Service, Inc. that gets you a discount on their services!

Your Unique Circumstance Determines a Lot

Of course, your next steps will depend on several variables, including your short-term needs and long-term goals. For example, if you want to use paid advertising long-term, then you should only do so after you’ve completed substantial SEO work on your website. This ensures good ROI because it lowers your AdWords costs and makes your ads more potent. On the other hand, if you’re only looking for a temporary campaign to promote a special offering or discount, then you probably aren’t as concerned with long-term ROI.
Geographic location also influences which online marketing strategies will work for you. For instance, if you’re in a rural area without much competition, then you may only need a Google listing and a three-page CoreSite. However, if you’re in a densely populated area, then you’ll have to do significantly more work and narrowly target specific keywords to beat the competition.
Countless other quirks can dictate how each program works for your business. That’s why you should discuss your needs and goals with your Prospect Genius account manager. We’ll make sure you’re using the best strategy for your business.
Ready to make the next move for your online marketing? Call today!

Prospect Genius