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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Small Teams Can Outperform Big Brands Fast
- Small companies can win AEO faster than SEO by creating offsite mentions and video without a big brand.
- Use Reddit, YouTube, affiliates and Product Hunt to get quick citations and traction.
Chat Adds Channels; SEO Still Dominates
- SEO remains massive and distinct; chat adds a new slice rather than replacing search.
- Use SEO when you have authority; use AEO to capture emergent LLM-driven demand.
Don't Rely On llms.txt
- Ignore llms.txt as an authoritative protocol; it isn't widely used or respected yet.
- Invest in tangible citation strategies rather than speculative file-based signals.