Search is changing fast. When someone types a question into ChatGPT, Perplexity AI, or Google's AI Overviews, they get a direct answer — not a list of blue links. If your website isn't being cited in those answers, you're essentially invisible to a growing chunk of searchers.
This is what Answer Engine Optimization (AEO) is about, and it's become a core part of how I approach SEO at Saskatoon Web Designs.
Here's what actually works:
1. Write for questions, not just keywords
AI engines pull from content that directly answers a specific question. Structure your pages with clear H2/H3 questions and concise answers beneath them — think FAQ-style, but woven naturally into your content.
2. Use structured data (schema markup)
Schema helps AI crawlers understand what your content means, not just what it says. At minimum, implement FAQ, Article, and LocalBusiness schema where relevant.
3. Build authority through citations
AI models favour content that's already trusted. That means earning backlinks from high-authority domains, getting listed in reputable directories, and being mentioned on platforms like Reddit, dev.to, and industry publications.
4. Keep your content factual and specific
Vague content doesn't get cited. AI prefers pages that make clear, verifiable claims with supporting context. Stats, named examples, and direct answers all help.
5. Optimize your "about" signals
Who wrote it? Who is the brand? AI engines increasingly weigh authorship and entity signals. Make sure your About page, author bios, and Google Business Profile are complete and consistent.
AEO isn't replacing SEO — it's layering on top of it. The fundamentals still matter, but the goal has shifted from ranking to being the answer.
If you're a dev building sites for clients, now is a great time to bake these practices in from the start. Feel free to drop questions below.
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