How to get ChatGPT to recommend your product | Ethan Smith

09/14/25
Source: Lenny’s Newsletter by Lenny Rachitsky. Read the original article

TL;DR Summary of How ChatGPT and AEO Are Transforming SEO Strategy

Answer Engine Optimization (AEO) is revolutionizing the SEO landscape by prioritizing AI-powered search answers, especially through ChatGPT. ChatGPT-driven traffic converts six times better than traditional Google search traffic, presenting a major opportunity for startups and established companies alike. Early-stage startups can rapidly rank in AI answers using targeted tactics like landing pages, YouTube videos, and authentic Reddit engagement, bypassing the lengthy timelines typical of conventional SEO. Additionally, optimizing help-center content offers high ROI as AI increasingly sources information from authoritative citations.

Optimixed’s Overview: Leveraging AEO and ChatGPT for Next-Gen SEO Success

Understanding the Shift from Traditional SEO to AEO

With the rise of AI conversational platforms such as ChatGPT, Claude, Gemini, and Perplexity, Answer Engine Optimization (AEO) has emerged as the newest frontier in digital marketing. Unlike traditional SEO, which focuses on ranking webpages in Google search results, AEO targets being featured directly in AI-generated answers, drastically changing how users discover and engage with content.

Why ChatGPT Traffic Outperforms Google Search

  • Higher Conversion Rates: ChatGPT referrals convert at a rate six times greater than conventional search traffic, highlighting more qualified and intent-driven users.
  • Immediate Impact: Early-stage startups can gain visibility in AI answers almost instantly, whereas traditional SEO often requires years to build momentum.
  • Authentic Engagement: Platforms like Reddit serve as critical zones for genuine community interaction, which AI systems reference, enhancing brand trust and reach.

Practical Tactics to Win at AEO

Ethan Smith, CEO of Graphite, outlines a pragmatic seven-step playbook focusing on:

  • Creating focused landing pages tailored for AI answer queries.
  • Producing YouTube videos that AI can easily source and cite.
  • Engaging authentically on Reddit to build real conversations and citations.
  • Optimizing help-center content to capture the long-tail queries AI frequently pulls from.

Key Considerations and Future Outlook

The rise of AI-driven search demands avoiding over-optimized or AI-generated content without originality, as these approaches often fail in AEO. Instead, brands must focus on genuine, high-quality content backed by credible citations. Looking ahead, the convergence of large language models and traditional search engines will create hybrid discovery channels, making mastery of AEO essential for sustained growth and competitive advantage.