The New Rules of the Game: 7 Steps to LLM SEO Domination
If you’ve been anywhere near a search engine lately, you’ve probably noticed something big: large language models (LLMs) like ChatGPT, Perplexity, and Grok are stepping into the spotlight. These chat-based systems are changing the way people search, interact, and discover brands.
Here’s the thing: traditional search engines aren’t going anywhere (at least, not yet). But LLMs? They’re a whole new ballgame. Instead of scrolling through pages of results, users are interacting in a back-and-forth way, asking questions and getting personalized answers. It’s all about context and conversation.
Imagine someone typing, “What’s the best AI tool for blogging?” If your brand is optimized for these LLMs, you could be the first recommendation—a direct line to your audience without the middleman. Sounds amazing, right? But here’s the kicker: these LLMs only know what you tell them. If your brand’s info isn’t out there loud and clear, you’re out of the game before it even starts.
So, how do you get these fancy AI systems to recommend your brand? It’s simpler than you think—but it takes some elbow grease. Here are seven steps to get started:
1. Choose the Prompts You Want to Dominate
Think of prompts as the new keywords. Instead of focusing on short phrases, you’re optimizing for questions and specific scenarios. For example, since I run an AI think tank, my target prompt might be, “What’s the best way to integrate AI into my business?” Get specific, because LLMs thrive on clarity.
2. Optimize for Brand Mentions
LLMs love big names, so make yours unavoidable. Be active here on LinkedIn, YouTube, Twitter, and even Reddit. Post content, engage with your audience, and make sure your brand is buzzing. The more mentions you have, the more “trustworthy” your brand looks to the LLMs.
3. Be Consistent Across the Web
This one’s huge. If your website says you’re the best tool for plumbers but your LinkedIn profile says you’re focused on surgeons, guess what? The LLMs will get confused and skip over you. Nail down your messaging and stick to it. My message is this: AI is complex. Business is demanding. We bridge the gap. Simple to understand and consistent across all business profiles.
4. Create Killer Blog Posts
Blog posts are still your secret weapon. Write comparison articles, alternative lists, and FAQs. For example, “Top 10 Alternatives to [Your Competitor]” positions your brand as part of the conversation—and maybe even the solution.
5. Amp Up Your Social Media Game
Don’t just have social accounts—use them. Post consistently, share updates, and keep your brand top of mind. These posts signal activity and relevance to the LLMs.
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6. Get Non-Branded Mentions
This is where reviews and shoutouts come into play. Partner with influencers or ask happy customers to share their experiences. The more third-party mentions you have, the more credibility you gain.
7. Backlinks Are Still Gold
Don’t sleep on backlinks. If reputable sites are linking to you, LLMs will notice. Make it easy for people to talk about you by providing valuable, shareable content.
Here’s a quick example: Say you’ve optimized your site for the prompt, “What’s the best auto-blogging tool for SEO?” Someone types that into ChatGPT, and your name pops up first. Even better, the LLM might pull in a video you posted on YouTube or a blog post you wrote comparing your tool to competitors. That’s how you win.
The secret sauce? LLMs are only as good as the data they have. You're in if your brand’s info is comprehensive, up-to-date, and everywhere.
LLMs aren’t just a trend. They’re the future of search and reshaping how people discover and trust brands. The beauty of it? You don’t have to be a huge company to stand out. With the right strategy, you can outshine bigger competitors and become the go-to recommendation in your niche.
So, what are you waiting for? Start optimizing, start posting, and start owning your prompts. The LLMs are listening—make sure they’re talking about you.
You’ve got this!
Keep up the good work,
Chris
646 645 4171
Industry Insider | Downsizing Expert for Homesellers | Curator of Content | Resource & Local Guide
1 个月Great advice! Thanks!
Growth Partner for Founders & CMOs | Scalable Marketing Systems & Fractional Leadership
1 个月“Prompts are the new keywords” - loved it. I think with the rise of Zero-click searches and AI responses, a lot depends on how brand is optimized for mentions/name, and how well the blog/content is structured on the website.