Key Facts
AI tools like ChatGPT, Perplexity, and Gemini have changed how some people search. Instead of typing into Google, they’re asking questions inside chat interfaces and getting direct, summarized answers. That shift has sparked a lot of talk about something called Answer Engine Optimization (AEO)—the idea that your content needs to be optimized not just for search engines, but for AI-generated answers.
It’s a valid conversation. But if you’re running a small or midsize business, here’s what you really need to know:
Google still dominates where your customers are searching. AI isn’t replacing search. It’s reshaping expectations.
So instead of chasing another new acronym, let’s focus on what’s actually changing—and how smart, useful content can still win in both worlds.
AI Is Changing Search. But Google Still Runs the Show
Yes, more people are asking questions inside AI tools. But Google still dominates search traffic, especially for small and midsize businesses. As of April 2025, Google holds approximately 89.66% of the global search engine market share, with Bing at 3.88% and Yandex at 2.53% .
That said, user behavior is shifting. People are expecting more direct, helpful answers—whether they’re using Google or an AI tool. For instance, Google’s AI Overviews have reached 1.5 billion monthly users, indicating a growing preference for AI-generated summaries .
What Is Answer Engine Optimization, Really?
AEO is about creating content that shows up in tools that deliver instant answers, not just a list of blue links. Think of it as an extension of what we already know works in SEO:
- Answering specific questions clearly
- Structuring content in ways that are easy to parse
- Using schema markup to help machines interpret your content
- Focusing on authority, accuracy, and intent
If that sounds familiar, it should. It’s what good SEO has always been.
Moreover, organizations optimizing content for answer engine citations report 31% higher engagement metrics from this traffic compared to traditional search visitors .
What You Can Do Right Now
You don’t need a new strategy—but you do need to sharpen the one you have.
Here’s what we recommend:
- Get Clear on User Intent
People aren’t just searching with keywords. They’re asking questions. Your content should answer those questions directly—without fluff or filler. - Use Structured Content
Bullet points, headers, FAQs—these help both search engines and AI tools understand what your page is about. They also make your content easier to skim. - Add Schema Where It Makes Sense
Structured data markup (like FAQ or HowTo schema) gives machines more context. It can help your content show up in featured snippets or answer boxes. In fact, content with structured data receives 42% more answer engine citations compared to similar content without structured markup . - Keep Your Content Useful, Not Just Optimized
AI tools are getting better at filtering for quality and intent. If your content is useful and genuinely helps people, it’s more likely to be pulled into those answers—even if you’re not chasing the trend.
Don’t Pivot. Just Be Smarter.
You don’t need to overhaul your SEO to chase AI search.
We tell clients this all the time: if you’re already creating content that’s clear, useful, and structured around real problems your customers have, you’re already doing 80% of the work.
AI search is reinforcing that. Not replacing it.
Want help making your content easier to find—and easier to trust?
We help businesses write content that works across search, not just for clicks, but for credibility and conversions. Let’s Chat
