What is the difference between SEO, AEO, and GEO?

SEO (Search Engine Optimization) helps you rank in traditional Google search results. AEO (Answer Engine Optimization) focuses on getting your content featured as a direct answer in featured snippets and voice search. GEO (Generative Engine Optimization) is the newest — it focuses on getting AI systems like ChatGPT and Perplexity to cite and recommend your business in conversational responses.

Which should a small business in the 705 area focus on: SEO, AEO, or GEO?

All three, but GEO and AEO should be the priority for Northern Ontario businesses right now. Traditional SEO remains important, but the shift toward AI-powered search means that businesses optimizing for AI recommendation today are building an advantage that will compound over the next few years.

Can I do SEO and GEO at the same time, or do they conflict?

They're largely complementary. Good SEO practices — quality content, structured data, fast loading, mobile-friendly design, consistent business information — also help with GEO. The main addition for GEO is ensuring your content is written in a format AI can easily extract and cite, with clear direct answers to common questions.

Is AEO the same as GEO?

They overlap but aren't identical. AEO predates generative AI and focused on featured snippets and voice search. GEO specifically addresses the newer generation of AI chatbots (ChatGPT, Perplexity, Gemini) that generate entire recommendations rather than pulling a single snippet. GEO builds on AEO principles and extends them for the AI chat era.

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SEO vs AEO vs GEO: Which One Does Your Northern Ontario Business Actually Need?

Wesley Aulbrook, Founder, 705aiDecember 27, 20257 min read

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