Startup Stories - Mixergy #2285 AEO: How to make ChatGPT promote you
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Nov 11, 2025 
Ethan Smith, Founder and CEO of Graphite, shares his insights on Answer Engine Optimization (AEO) and its transformative impact on brand visibility in AI responses. He contrasts AEO with traditional SEO, emphasizing the speed and accessibility for startups. Ethan highlights effective strategies using platforms like Reddit and YouTube for genuine engagement. He debunks the myth that SEO is becoming obsolete, arguing instead that AEO enhances search. Ethan also discusses practical tactics for optimizing content to capture niche queries and track performance.
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Prioritize AEO Over Early SEO
- Start AEO now by prioritizing channels that feed LLM answers rather than only SEO.
- Focus on use-case pages and templates because they map directly to how models cite sources.
Offsite Citations Drive LLM Answers
- AEO requires offsite signals: citations on Reddit, YouTube, affiliates and other domains matter more than just your site.
- Owned offsite (your YouTube, Reddit engagement) and earned mentions both drive LLM citations.
Use Video To Win Low-Competition Niches
- Use YouTube and UGC strategically because video content is frequently cited by LLMs.
- Prioritize video for niche, low-entertainment B2B products where competition is light.