Join me as I chat with Cody Schneider about AI Search. Cody explains that while AI search (GEO) is generating buzz, it currently represents a small portion of overall search volume compared to traditional search engines. The value lies in highly qualified leads, with conversion rates of 10-40% from AI search traffic. To optimize for AI search, businesses need to identify which URLs are being referenced by AI for relevant queries and work to get their brand mentioned on those pages.
Timestamps:
00:00 – Intro
00:51 – What is GEO/AI search?
02:18 – Who GEO is most effective for?
08:16 – How AI search actually functions
12:31 – Tools and strategies for optimizing for AI search
16:45 – Why are people obsessed with GEO
19:56 – Discussion of available tracking tools
22:41 – Final Thoughts on AI Search and GEO
Key Points:
• GEO (AI Search) refers to search queries through AI platforms like Perplexity, ChatGPT, and Gemini
• AI search works by expanding user queries into multiple derivative searches, then scraping top Google results
• Most effective for businesses with long purchasing decision timelines (SaaS, local service businesses)
• Success requires getting your brand mentioned on multiple high-ranking pages that AI references
1) What is GEO/AI Search?
GEO (or more accurately "AI Search") refers to:
• Perplexity, ChatGPT, Gemini responses
• People querying LLMs for information
• A research tool in the buyer journey
The TRUTH? It’s still tiny compared to Google search volume – both are growing simultaneously.
2) Who should care about AI Search?
Only TWO types of businesses are seeing real results:
• Local service businesses (roofing, HVAC, etc.)
• Software/SaaS companies
Why? Because both involve LONGER purchasing decisions where people do extensive research before buying.
"If you don’t fall into these categories, it’s probably not worth investing in yet." – Cody Schneider
3) The REAL reason AI Search converts better
The data shows 40%+ conversion rates from AI Search traffic vs 1-2% from regular search!
Why? Because users have already:
• Done extensive research
• Compared options
• Made their decision
By the time they click through, they’re credit card-in-hand ready to buy.
4) How AI Search ACTUALLY works behind the scenes
When someone asks ChatGPT about "best funnel software for mobile":
1. AI expands that query into ~100 derivative queries
2. Searches these on Google/Bing
3. Scrapes ~1000 pages from search results
4. Compiles this into its context window
5. Generates an answer
This is "AI fanning" – and it’s KEY to understanding how to win.
5) The winning strategy: SURFACE AREA
The more your brand appears in those ~1000 scraped pages, the more likely you’ll be recommended.
The secret? Get on as many LISTICLES as possible!
If you’re mentioned on 40% of the pages vs. 0.5%, guess who wins?
This is all about BRAND DIMENSIONS.
6) The step-by-step playbook:
1. Use AI SEO tools (PromptWatch, AI SEO Tracker, etc.) to find URLs being referenced for your keywords
2. Identify the most frequently referenced URLs
3. Contact those site owners
4. Get your brand placed on those pages
Cost? About $500 per placement (or negotiate with affiliate deals)
7) Why this is DIFFERENT from traditional SEO
Traditional SEO: Takes months/years to see results
AI Search SEO: Results in 24 HOURS
"It’s overnight. That’s why people are obsessing over this. If you get placed on these URLs, you start showing up for queries immediately." – Cody Schneider
8) The TRUTH about private blog networks
Many services claim they’ll create thousands of AI-optimized blog posts for you.
Cody Schneider’s take? "It’s b******t."
What ACTUALLY matters: Getting on pages already ranking on Google page 1-3, since that’s what AI tools are scraping.
Don’t waste money on fake networks!
9) The big opportunity RIGHT NOW
• AI Search volume is growing daily
• The tools are still evolving
• First movers have an advantage
• It’s easier than traditional SEO
BUT – don’t put all your eggs in one basket!
Remember that algorithm changes can nuke your traffic overnight.
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FIND ME ON SOCIAL
X/Twitter: https://twitter.com/gregisenberg
Instagram: https://instagram.com/gregisenberg/
LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/gisenberg/
FIND CODY ON SOCIAL
Cody’s startup: https://www.graphed.com
X/Twitter: https://x.com/codyschneiderxx
Youtube: https://www.youtube.com/@codyschneiderx
