What is LLM SEO?
LLM SEO is the practice of optimizing how large language models represent your brand. LLMs power ChatGPT, Claude, Gemini, and other AI platforms. They form their understanding of brands from training data and real-time web access, then use that understanding to make recommendations.
How LLMs learn about brands
- Training data - Text from the internet the model was trained on
- Real-time retrieval (RAG) - Web searches during conversations
- Feedback loops - Usage patterns that influence model updates
LLM SEO vs traditional SEO
Traditional SEO optimizes pages for search algorithms. LLM SEO optimizes brands for AI models that synthesize knowledge from thousands of sources. The scope is your entire digital footprint, not just your website. The signals are authority and sentiment, not just keywords and backlinks.
Relationship to GEO
LLM SEO is essentially synonymous with GEO (Generative Engine Optimization). The terminology reflects different communities approaching the same optimization challenge.