Prepared by: Asst. Lect. Rawazh Kamaran

Remember when all our efforts were focused on ranking first in Google searches? That era was called SEO (Search Engine Optimization). But now, the game has changed. People are no longer just typing keywords into Google; they are directly asking their questions to ChatGPT and other smart platforms. This is where a new rule has emerged: AEO (Answer Engine Optimization).

So, What is AEO?

Let\'s explain with an example. In the past, when someone typed "restaurant Sulaimani," you would try to get your page\'s link to appear first. But now, that person asks ChatGPT: "What are the best restaurants in Sulaimani for a family dinner?"

AEO means striving to have your business\'s name appear within the AI-generated answer itself, not just as a link. The goal is for ChatGPT to say: "One of the best is [Your Business\'s Name] restaurant because..."

Why is AEO Important and Why Shouldn\'t You Ignore It?

Because your customers\' behavior has changed. It is predicted that in the next few years, a quarter of people searching for products and services will directly ask these intelligent engines. This means if you don\'t pay attention to this, you might lose a large portion of potential customers who may never even hear of your business. The goal is not just to be on a list, but to be part of the final answer that people trust.

Okay, How Do I Get Started?

Although AEO is new, it works on the same strong principles as good SEO. Implement these four points:

1. Create Strong and Trustworthy Content: Answer the questions your customers have, in a detailed and expert manner. Make the AI engines understand that you are a reliable source in your field.

2. Use Special Code (Schema Markup): This is a simple code you add to your website. It acts like an ID card that tells the intelligent engines, "This information is well-organized and credible," and it\'s best to have IT experts implement it for you.

3. Get Other Well-Known Websites and Pages to Talk About You (Backlinks): When other reputable sources link to you, it increases your credibility with these AI engines.

4. Update Your Information Everywhere: Make sure your address, phone number, and business hours are correct and up-to-date on Google Maps, your social media pages, and everywhere else online.

In conclusion, AEO is not a replacement for SEO; it is its evolution and complement. Search is no longer just on Google; search is everywhere. The businesses that realize this fact early and act on it are the ones that will get ahead of their competitors and secure their place in this new world.