{"id":13257,"date":"2025-06-12T12:53:01","date_gmt":"2025-06-12T12:53:01","guid":{"rendered":"https:\/\/craighordlow.com\/index.php\/2025\/06\/12\/llm-visibility-the-seo-metric-no-one-is-reporting-on-yet\/"},"modified":"2025-06-12T12:53:01","modified_gmt":"2025-06-12T12:53:01","slug":"llm-visibility-the-seo-metric-no-one-is-reporting-on-yet","status":"publish","type":"post","link":"https:\/\/craighordlow.com\/index.php\/2025\/06\/12\/llm-visibility-the-seo-metric-no-one-is-reporting-on-yet\/","title":{"rendered":"LLM Visibility: The SEO Metric No One Is Reporting On (Yet)"},"content":{"rendered":"<p>You lost half your Google traffic.<\/p>\n<p>But suddenly\u2026more people are searching for your brand. What\u2019s going on?<\/p>\n<p>Welcome to the invisible influence of LLMs, where your visibility goes up even when traffic goes down.<\/p>\n<p>New <a title=\"We Studied the Impact of AI Search on SEO Traffic. Here\u2019s What We Learned.\" href=\"https:\/\/www.semrush.com\/blog\/ai-search-seo-traffic-study\/\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noopener\">research from Semrush<\/a> reveals a seismic shift happening right now: <strong>LLM traffic will completely overtake traditional Google search by 2027<\/strong>.<\/p>\n<figure class=\"backlinko-image__visual-chart backlinko-image\">\n<div class=\"backlinko-img-placeholder\"><\/div>\n<p><img decoding=\"async\" title=\"Google and LLM Unique Visitor Growth Projection (Moderate Case)\" alt=\"Google and LLM Unique Visitor Growth Projection (Moderate Case)\" data-aspect-ratio=\"0.81857142857143\" src=\"https:\/\/backlinko.com\/app\/uploads\/2025\/06\/google-and-llm-unique-visitor-growth-projection-moderate-case.png\" loading=\"lazy\" \/><\/p><\/figure>\n<p>There\u2019s A LOT to think through here.<\/p>\n<p>The good news?<\/p>\n<p>If you\u2019re already doing quality SEO, you\u2019re 70% of the way there. The next step is to ensure your expertise is recognized by AI systems.<\/p>\n<p>In this guide, you\u2019ll learn:<\/p>\n<ul>\n<li>Why Google rankings are no longer your best growth signal<\/li>\n<li>What LLM visibility actually means<\/li>\n<li>How to track and influence this new layer of search that\u2019s driving brand discovery<\/li>\n<\/ul>\n<p>Let\u2019s start with what your current analytics are struggling to see.<\/p>\n<div id=\"ez-toc-container\" class=\"ez-toc-v2_0_81 counter-hierarchy ez-toc-counter ez-toc-grey ez-toc-container-direction\">\n<div class=\"ez-toc-title-container\">\n<p class=\"ez-toc-title\" style=\"cursor:inherit\">Table of Contents<\/p>\n<span class=\"ez-toc-title-toggle\"><a href=\"#\" class=\"ez-toc-pull-right ez-toc-btn ez-toc-btn-xs ez-toc-btn-default ez-toc-toggle\" aria-label=\"Toggle Table of Content\"><span class=\"ez-toc-js-icon-con\"><span class=\"\"><span class=\"eztoc-hide\" style=\"display:none;\">Toggle<\/span><span class=\"ez-toc-icon-toggle-span\"><svg style=\"fill: #999;color:#999\" xmlns=\"http:\/\/www.w3.org\/2000\/svg\" class=\"list-377408\" width=\"20px\" height=\"20px\" viewBox=\"0 0 24 24\" fill=\"none\"><path d=\"M6 6H4v2h2V6zm14 0H8v2h12V6zM4 11h2v2H4v-2zm16 0H8v2h12v-2zM4 16h2v2H4v-2zm16 0H8v2h12v-2z\" fill=\"currentColor\"><\/path><\/svg><svg style=\"fill: #999;color:#999\" class=\"arrow-unsorted-368013\" xmlns=\"http:\/\/www.w3.org\/2000\/svg\" width=\"10px\" height=\"10px\" viewBox=\"0 0 24 24\" version=\"1.2\" baseProfile=\"tiny\"><path d=\"M18.2 9.3l-6.2-6.3-6.2 6.3c-.2.2-.3.4-.3.7s.1.5.3.7c.2.2.4.3.7.3h11c.3 0 .5-.1.7-.3.2-.2.3-.5.3-.7s-.1-.5-.3-.7zM5.8 14.7l6.2 6.3 6.2-6.3c.2-.2.3-.5.3-.7s-.1-.5-.3-.7c-.2-.2-.4-.3-.7-.3h-11c-.3 0-.5.1-.7.3-.2.2-.3.5-.3.7s.1.5.3.7z\"\/><\/svg><\/span><\/span><\/span><\/a><\/span><\/div>\n<nav><ul class='ez-toc-list ez-toc-list-level-1 ' ><li class='ez-toc-page-1 ez-toc-heading-level-2'><a class=\"ez-toc-link ez-toc-heading-1\" href=\"https:\/\/craighordlow.com\/index.php\/2025\/06\/12\/llm-visibility-the-seo-metric-no-one-is-reporting-on-yet\/#Your_Brand_Is_Blowing_Up_in_LLMs_You_Just_Cant_See_It\" >Your Brand Is Blowing Up in LLMs (You Just Can\u2019t See It)<\/a><ul class='ez-toc-list-level-3' ><li class='ez-toc-heading-level-3'><a class=\"ez-toc-link ez-toc-heading-2\" href=\"https:\/\/craighordlow.com\/index.php\/2025\/06\/12\/llm-visibility-the-seo-metric-no-one-is-reporting-on-yet\/#What_Your_Analytics_Miss\" >What Your Analytics Miss<\/a><\/li><li class='ez-toc-page-1 ez-toc-heading-level-3'><a class=\"ez-toc-link ez-toc-heading-3\" href=\"https:\/\/craighordlow.com\/index.php\/2025\/06\/12\/llm-visibility-the-seo-metric-no-one-is-reporting-on-yet\/#How_Discovery_Has_Changed\" >How Discovery Has Changed<\/a><\/li><li class='ez-toc-page-1 ez-toc-heading-level-3'><a class=\"ez-toc-link ez-toc-heading-4\" href=\"https:\/\/craighordlow.com\/index.php\/2025\/06\/12\/llm-visibility-the-seo-metric-no-one-is-reporting-on-yet\/#4_Signs_Your_LLM_Visibility_Is_Growing\" >4 Signs Your LLM Visibility Is Growing<\/a><\/li><\/ul><\/li><li class='ez-toc-page-1 ez-toc-heading-level-2'><a class=\"ez-toc-link ez-toc-heading-5\" href=\"https:\/\/craighordlow.com\/index.php\/2025\/06\/12\/llm-visibility-the-seo-metric-no-one-is-reporting-on-yet\/#How_LLMs_Find_and_Cite_Content\" >How LLMs Find and Cite Content<\/a><ul class='ez-toc-list-level-3' ><li class='ez-toc-heading-level-3'><a class=\"ez-toc-link ez-toc-heading-6\" href=\"https:\/\/craighordlow.com\/index.php\/2025\/06\/12\/llm-visibility-the-seo-metric-no-one-is-reporting-on-yet\/#Why_Rankings_Dont_Predict_LLM_Citations\" >Why Rankings Don\u2019t Predict LLM Citations<\/a><\/li><li class='ez-toc-page-1 ez-toc-heading-level-3'><a class=\"ez-toc-link ez-toc-heading-7\" href=\"https:\/\/craighordlow.com\/index.php\/2025\/06\/12\/llm-visibility-the-seo-metric-no-one-is-reporting-on-yet\/#What_LLMs_Actually_Prioritize\" >What LLMs Actually Prioritize<\/a><\/li><li class='ez-toc-page-1 ez-toc-heading-level-3'><a class=\"ez-toc-link ez-toc-heading-8\" href=\"https:\/\/craighordlow.com\/index.php\/2025\/06\/12\/llm-visibility-the-seo-metric-no-one-is-reporting-on-yet\/#How_LLM_Discovery_Works_in_Practice\" >How LLM Discovery Works in Practice<\/a><\/li><\/ul><\/li><li class='ez-toc-page-1 ez-toc-heading-level-2'><a class=\"ez-toc-link ez-toc-heading-9\" href=\"https:\/\/craighordlow.com\/index.php\/2025\/06\/12\/llm-visibility-the-seo-metric-no-one-is-reporting-on-yet\/#Why_Your_Analytics_Are_Blind_to_LLM_Growth_And_How_to_Fix_It\" >Why Your Analytics Are Blind to LLM Growth (And How to Fix It)<\/a><ul class='ez-toc-list-level-3' ><li class='ez-toc-heading-level-3'><a class=\"ez-toc-link ez-toc-heading-10\" href=\"https:\/\/craighordlow.com\/index.php\/2025\/06\/12\/llm-visibility-the-seo-metric-no-one-is-reporting-on-yet\/#What_Your_Dashboard_Misses\" >What Your Dashboard Misses<\/a><\/li><li class='ez-toc-page-1 ez-toc-heading-level-3'><a class=\"ez-toc-link ez-toc-heading-11\" href=\"https:\/\/craighordlow.com\/index.php\/2025\/06\/12\/llm-visibility-the-seo-metric-no-one-is-reporting-on-yet\/#Why_Traditional_Metrics_Fail\" >Why Traditional Metrics Fail<\/a><\/li><li class='ez-toc-page-1 ez-toc-heading-level-3'><a class=\"ez-toc-link ez-toc-heading-12\" href=\"https:\/\/craighordlow.com\/index.php\/2025\/06\/12\/llm-visibility-the-seo-metric-no-one-is-reporting-on-yet\/#How_to_Track_Your_LLM_Visibility\" >How to Track Your LLM Visibility<\/a><\/li><li class='ez-toc-page-1 ez-toc-heading-level-3'><a class=\"ez-toc-link ez-toc-heading-13\" href=\"https:\/\/craighordlow.com\/index.php\/2025\/06\/12\/llm-visibility-the-seo-metric-no-one-is-reporting-on-yet\/#The_Measurement_Mindset_Shift\" >The Measurement Mindset Shift<\/a><\/li><\/ul><\/li><li class='ez-toc-page-1 ez-toc-heading-level-2'><a class=\"ez-toc-link ez-toc-heading-14\" href=\"https:\/\/craighordlow.com\/index.php\/2025\/06\/12\/llm-visibility-the-seo-metric-no-one-is-reporting-on-yet\/#Building_Authority_That_AI_Actually_Recognizes\" >Building Authority That AI Actually Recognizes<\/a><ul class='ez-toc-list-level-3' ><li class='ez-toc-heading-level-3'><a class=\"ez-toc-link ez-toc-heading-15\" href=\"https:\/\/craighordlow.com\/index.php\/2025\/06\/12\/llm-visibility-the-seo-metric-no-one-is-reporting-on-yet\/#Why_SEO_Authority_Still_Matters_Mostly\" >Why SEO Authority Still Matters (Mostly)<\/a><\/li><li class='ez-toc-page-1 ez-toc-heading-level-3'><a class=\"ez-toc-link ez-toc-heading-16\" href=\"https:\/\/craighordlow.com\/index.php\/2025\/06\/12\/llm-visibility-the-seo-metric-no-one-is-reporting-on-yet\/#Expertise_Depth_Over_Keyword_Coverage\" >Expertise Depth Over Keyword Coverage<\/a><\/li><\/ul><\/li><li class='ez-toc-page-1 ez-toc-heading-level-2'><a class=\"ez-toc-link ez-toc-heading-17\" href=\"https:\/\/craighordlow.com\/index.php\/2025\/06\/12\/llm-visibility-the-seo-metric-no-one-is-reporting-on-yet\/#The_Strategic_Citation_Playbook\" >The Strategic Citation Playbook<\/a><ul class='ez-toc-list-level-3' ><li class='ez-toc-heading-level-3'><a class=\"ez-toc-link ez-toc-heading-18\" href=\"https:\/\/craighordlow.com\/index.php\/2025\/06\/12\/llm-visibility-the-seo-metric-no-one-is-reporting-on-yet\/#How_to_Get_Cited_Alongside_Competitors\" >How to Get Cited Alongside Competitors<\/a><\/li><li class='ez-toc-page-1 ez-toc-heading-level-3'><a class=\"ez-toc-link ez-toc-heading-19\" href=\"https:\/\/craighordlow.com\/index.php\/2025\/06\/12\/llm-visibility-the-seo-metric-no-one-is-reporting-on-yet\/#Citations_vs_Links_Whats_Different\" >Citations vs. Links: What\u2019s Different<\/a><\/li><\/ul><\/li><li class='ez-toc-page-1 ez-toc-heading-level-2'><a class=\"ez-toc-link ez-toc-heading-20\" href=\"https:\/\/craighordlow.com\/index.php\/2025\/06\/12\/llm-visibility-the-seo-metric-no-one-is-reporting-on-yet\/#Why_Your_Small_Brand_Can_Compete_in_LLMs\" >Why Your Small Brand Can Compete in LLMs<\/a><ul class='ez-toc-list-level-3' ><li class='ez-toc-heading-level-3'><a class=\"ez-toc-link ez-toc-heading-21\" href=\"https:\/\/craighordlow.com\/index.php\/2025\/06\/12\/llm-visibility-the-seo-metric-no-one-is-reporting-on-yet\/#Speed_Beats_Scale\" >Speed Beats Scale<\/a><\/li><li class='ez-toc-page-1 ez-toc-heading-level-3'><a class=\"ez-toc-link ez-toc-heading-22\" href=\"https:\/\/craighordlow.com\/index.php\/2025\/06\/12\/llm-visibility-the-seo-metric-no-one-is-reporting-on-yet\/#The_Community_Multiplier_Effect\" >The Community Multiplier Effect<\/a><\/li><li class='ez-toc-page-1 ez-toc-heading-level-3'><a class=\"ez-toc-link ez-toc-heading-23\" href=\"https:\/\/craighordlow.com\/index.php\/2025\/06\/12\/llm-visibility-the-seo-metric-no-one-is-reporting-on-yet\/#Start_Small_Win_Big\" >Start Small, Win Big<\/a><\/li><\/ul><\/li><\/ul><\/nav><\/div>\n<h2><span class=\"ez-toc-section\" id=\"Your_Brand_Is_Blowing_Up_in_LLMs_You_Just_Cant_See_It\"><\/span>Your Brand Is Blowing Up in LLMs (You Just Can\u2019t See It)<span class=\"ez-toc-section-end\"><\/span><\/h2>\n<p>LLMs are quietly becoming the biggest brand discovery platform on the internet.<\/p>\n<p>Users ask AI about your industry, see your brand mentioned, and then visit you directly later.<\/p>\n<p>The problem is you can\u2019t see this influence in Google Analytics.<\/p>\n<h3><span class=\"ez-toc-section\" id=\"What_Your_Analytics_Miss\"><\/span>What Your Analytics Miss<span class=\"ez-toc-section-end\"><\/span><\/h3>\n<p><strong><a title=\"We Studied the Impact of AI Search on SEO Traffic. Here\u2019s What We Learned.\" href=\"https:\/\/www.semrush.com\/blog\/ai-search-seo-traffic-study\/\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noopener\">Almost 90% of ChatGPT\u2019s<\/a> citations come from search results ranking in positions 21+<\/strong> \u2014 not the top 5 rankings you\u2019re fighting for.<\/p>\n<p>While you optimize for position #1, ChatGPT mines pages 3, 5, and 10 for answers. And users trust those recommendations.<\/p>\n<figure class=\"backlinko-image__visual-chart backlinko-image\">\n<div class=\"backlinko-img-placeholder\"><\/div>\n<p><img decoding=\"async\" title=\"What SEOs Optimize for vs What ChatGPT Actually Cites\" alt=\"What SEOs Optimize for vs What ChatGPT Actually Cites\" data-aspect-ratio=\"0.84142857142857\" src=\"https:\/\/backlinko.com\/app\/uploads\/2025\/06\/what-seos-optimize-for-vs-what-chatgpt-actually-cites.png\" loading=\"lazy\" \/><\/p><\/figure>\n<p>This data focuses on ChatGPT, but similar patterns appear across LLMs.<\/p>\n<p>Gemini also favors long-tail sources, and Perplexity shows comparable citation behaviors across the ecosystem.<\/p>\n<div class=\"sc-quote alert blue-box font-georgia type-normal transparent-img-bg\">\n<div class=\"media\">\n<figure class=\"sc-picture media-left hidden-sm-down\">\n            <img decoding=\"async\" src=\"https:\/\/backlinko.com\/app\/uploads\/2024\/06\/icon-note.png\" alt=\"| Craig Hordlow\" loading=\"lazy\" title=\"| Craig Hordlow\">        <\/figure>\n<div class=\"media-body\">\n<blockquote class=\"sc-quote\">\n<p><strong>Looking forward:<\/strong> Google\u2019s massive reach through <a title=\"AI Overviews: What They Are and How to Optimize for Them\" href=\"https:\/\/backlinko.com\/ai-overviews\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noopener\">AI Overviews<\/a> and the AI Mode rollout positions them as the long-term leader, even as ChatGPT dominates current conversations.<\/p>\n<\/blockquote>\n<div class=\"media\">\n<figure class=\"sc-picture media-left hidden-md-up\">\n                    <img decoding=\"async\" src=\"https:\/\/backlinko.com\/app\/uploads\/2024\/06\/icon-note.png\" alt=\"| Craig Hordlow\" loading=\"lazy\" title=\"| Craig Hordlow\">                <\/figure>\n<p>                                <cite class=\"sc-name media-body media-middle\"><br \/>\n                                    <\/cite>\n            <\/p><\/div>\n<\/div>\n<\/div>\n<\/div>\n<h3><span class=\"ez-toc-section\" id=\"How_Discovery_Has_Changed\"><\/span>How Discovery Has Changed<span class=\"ez-toc-section-end\"><\/span><\/h3>\n<p>Discovery is fundamentally changing:<\/p>\n<p><strong>Old way:<\/strong> Google \u2192 Click \u2192 Explore \u2192 Decide<\/p>\n<p><strong>New way:<\/strong> Ask AI \u2192 See mention \u2192 Visit directly later<\/p>\n<p>And different generations use LLMs differently.<\/p>\n<ul>\n<li>College students treat ChatGPT as an \u201coperating system.\u201d<\/li>\n<li>Users in their 20s-30s use it as a \u201clife advisor.\u201d<\/li>\n<li>Older users see it as a Google replacement.<\/li>\n<\/ul>\n<p>Still, each interaction creates invisible brand impressions.<\/p>\n<p>When someone discovers you through an LLM and visits later, it appears as:<\/p>\n<ul>\n<li>Direct traffic (typed your URL)<\/li>\n<li>Branded search (Googled your name)<\/li>\n<li>Untagged referral (bookmarked and returned)<\/li>\n<\/ul>\n<p><strong>There\u2019s zero attribution to the LLM mention.<\/strong><\/p>\n<p>So you have to get creative.<\/p>\n<h3><span class=\"ez-toc-section\" id=\"4_Signs_Your_LLM_Visibility_Is_Growing\"><\/span>4 Signs Your LLM Visibility Is Growing<span class=\"ez-toc-section-end\"><\/span><\/h3>\n<p>Your analytics might be telling a story of decline, while your brand influence is actually exploding.<\/p>\n<p>This exact pattern is happening to Backlinko.<\/p>\n<p>Our <strong>clicks dropped 15% while impressions surged 54%<\/strong> over the past three months.<\/p>\n<figure class=\"backlinko-image__screenshot backlinko-image backlinko-has-border\">\n<div class=\"backlinko-img-placeholder\"><\/div>\n<p><img decoding=\"async\" title=\"GSC \u2013 Backlinko \u2013 Performance compare report\" alt=\"GSC \u2013 Backlinko \u2013 Performance compare report\" data-aspect-ratio=\"0.61285714285714\" src=\"https:\/\/backlinko.com\/app\/uploads\/2025\/06\/gsc-backlinko-performance-compare-report.png\" loading=\"lazy\" \/><\/p><\/figure>\n<p>More people are seeing our content in search results, but fewer are clicking through.<\/p>\n<p>They\u2019re likely discovering us through AI responses, then searching for us directly later.<\/p>\n<p>Here are four signs that LLM visibility might be driving invisible growth for your brand:<\/p>\n<ol>\n<li><strong>Declining organic traffic + stable branded searches:<\/strong> People are discovering you elsewhere first, then searching for your brand directly.<\/li>\n<li><strong>Sales calls mentioning \u201cfound you through AI\u201d:<\/strong> Direct evidence of LLM-driven discovery that never shows up in analytics.<\/li>\n<li><strong>Direct traffic holding steady despite fewer Google clicks:<\/strong> Users are bypassing search entirely after AI discovery.<\/li>\n<li><strong>Competitors gaining share with weaker traditional SEO:<\/strong> They\u2019re likely winning LLM visibility while you focus on rankings. (More on what that looks like later.)<\/li>\n<\/ol>\n<h2><span class=\"ez-toc-section\" id=\"How_LLMs_Find_and_Cite_Content\"><\/span>How LLMs Find and Cite Content<span class=\"ez-toc-section-end\"><\/span><\/h2>\n<p>Historically, <a title=\"What is SEO? The Complete Search Engine Optimization Guide\" href=\"https:\/\/backlinko.com\/hub\/seo\/what-is-seo\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noopener\">SEO<\/a> has been fairly straightforward. For the most part, it\u2019s predictable cause and effect.<\/p>\n<p>Optimize for keyword X, build Y backlinks, get position Z.<\/p>\n<p>LLM visibility operates differently. It\u2019s probabilistic and contextual.<\/p>\n<p>This emerging discipline is Generative Engine Optimization (GEO). It\u2019s the practice of optimizing for AI-powered search systems.<\/p>\n<p>While this guide focuses on measuring LLM visibility specifically, it\u2019s part of the broader GEO strategy.<\/p>\n<p>With that said, think of GEO as an extension of SEO rather than replacing it, as many of the skills overlap.<\/p>\n<div class=\"sc-quote alert blue-box font-georgia type-normal transparent-img-bg\">\n<div class=\"media\">\n<figure class=\"sc-picture media-left hidden-sm-down\">\n            <img decoding=\"async\" src=\"https:\/\/backlinko.com\/app\/uploads\/2025\/03\/icon-remember-v2.png\" alt=\"| Craig Hordlow\" loading=\"lazy\" title=\"| Craig Hordlow\">        <\/figure>\n<div class=\"media-body\">\n<blockquote class=\"sc-quote\">\n<p>The fundamental difference:<\/p>\n<ul>\n<li><strong>SEO:<\/strong> Deterministic rankings drive traffic<\/li>\n<li><strong>GEO:<\/strong> Probabilistic mentions build influence<\/li>\n<\/ul>\n<\/blockquote>\n<div class=\"media\">\n<figure class=\"sc-picture media-left hidden-md-up\">\n                    <img decoding=\"async\" src=\"https:\/\/backlinko.com\/app\/uploads\/2025\/03\/icon-remember-v2.png\" alt=\"| Craig Hordlow\" loading=\"lazy\" title=\"| Craig Hordlow\">                <\/figure>\n<p>                                <cite class=\"sc-name media-body media-middle\"><br \/>\n                                    <\/cite>\n            <\/p><\/div>\n<\/div>\n<\/div>\n<\/div>\n<h3><span class=\"ez-toc-section\" id=\"Why_Rankings_Dont_Predict_LLM_Citations\"><\/span>Why Rankings Don\u2019t Predict LLM Citations<span class=\"ez-toc-section-end\"><\/span><\/h3>\n<p>Different LLMs prioritize different authority signals, creating multiple opportunities for visibility.<\/p>\n<p>For example, when you search \u201cbest SEO blogs in 2025,\u201d Google\u2019s AI Overview cites established brands.<\/p>\n<p>It mentions Backlinko alongside Search Engine Land, Semrush, and other recognized industry leaders.<\/p>\n<figure class=\"backlinko-image__screenshot backlinko-image backlinko-has-border\">\n<div class=\"backlinko-img-placeholder\"><\/div>\n<p><img decoding=\"async\" title=\"Google SERP \u2013 Best SEO blogs in 2025 \u2013 AI Overview\" alt=\"Google SERP \u2013 Best SEO blogs in 2025 \u2013 AI Overview\" data-aspect-ratio=\"1.7328571428571\" src=\"https:\/\/backlinko.com\/app\/uploads\/2025\/06\/google-serp-best-seo-blogs-in-2025-ai-overview-scaled.png\" loading=\"lazy\" \/><\/p><\/figure>\n<p>Open the top three cited posts in the AIO, and they all mention the same blogs.<\/p>\n<p>Ask ChatGPT the same question (logged out in a private browser), you get a similar list.<\/p>\n<figure class=\"backlinko-image__screenshot backlinko-image backlinko-has-border\">\n<div class=\"backlinko-img-placeholder\"><\/div>\n<p><img decoding=\"async\" title=\"ChatGPT \u2013 SEO blogs to follow in 2025 \u2013 Incognito\" alt=\"ChatGPT \u2013 SEO blogs to follow in 2025 \u2013 Incognito\" data-aspect-ratio=\"1.0014285714286\" src=\"https:\/\/backlinko.com\/app\/uploads\/2025\/06\/chatgpt-seo-blogs-to-follow-in-2025-incognito.png\" loading=\"lazy\" \/><\/p><\/figure>\n<p>But here\u2019s where it gets interesting.<\/p>\n<p>When I asked ChatGPT the same question, logged in, I got a completely different answer.<\/p>\n<figure class=\"backlinko-image__screenshot backlinko-image backlinko-has-border\">\n<div class=\"backlinko-img-placeholder\"><\/div>\n<p><img decoding=\"async\" title=\"ChatGPT \u2013 SEO blogs to follow in 2025 \u2013 Logged in\" alt=\"ChatGPT \u2013 SEO blogs to follow in 2025 \u2013 Logged in\" data-aspect-ratio=\"1.6014285714286\" src=\"https:\/\/backlinko.com\/app\/uploads\/2025\/06\/chatgpt-seo-blogs-to-follow-in-2025-logged-in-scaled.png\" loading=\"lazy\" \/><\/p><\/figure>\n<p>Instead of citing the usual suspects, it focuses on finding diverse, current perspectives across different platforms. It recommends everything from premium newsletters to X\/Twitter accounts worth following.<\/p>\n<p>All based on the context of my chat history.<\/p>\n<p>So, Google AI values co-citation patterns, but ChatGPT rewards fresh perspectives and contextual coverage.<\/p>\n<p>This is why your 2023 comparison post might never appear in AI Overviews, but could become ChatGPT\u2019s go-to citation for explaining complex topics.<\/p>\n<figure class=\"backlinko-image__visual-chart backlinko-image\">\n<div class=\"backlinko-img-placeholder\"><\/div>\n<p><img decoding=\"async\" title=\"SEO vs LLM Optimization Priorities\" alt=\"SEO vs LLM Optimization Priorities\" data-aspect-ratio=\"0.59428571428571\" src=\"https:\/\/backlinko.com\/app\/uploads\/2025\/06\/seo-vs-llm-optimization-priorities.png\" loading=\"lazy\" \/><\/p><\/figure>\n<h3><span class=\"ez-toc-section\" id=\"What_LLMs_Actually_Prioritize\"><\/span>What LLMs Actually Prioritize<span class=\"ez-toc-section-end\"><\/span><\/h3>\n<p>Early testing suggests that <strong>query fan-out<\/strong> and <strong>semantic chunk matching<\/strong> are big drivers of LLM behaviour.<\/p>\n<figure class=\"backlinko-image__visual-chart backlinko-image\">\n<div class=\"backlinko-img-placeholder\"><\/div>\n<p><img decoding=\"async\" title=\"How LLM Query Fan-out Works\" alt=\"How LLM Query Fan-out Works\" data-aspect-ratio=\"1.1528571428571\" src=\"https:\/\/backlinko.com\/app\/uploads\/2025\/06\/how-llm-query-fan-out-works-scaled.png\" loading=\"lazy\" \/><\/p><\/figure>\n<p>LLMs often create several related sub-queries from your original question, especially for complex topics. They pull the best matches from the web.<\/p>\n<figure class=\"backlinko-image__visual-chart backlinko-image\">\n<div class=\"backlinko-img-placeholder\"><\/div>\n<p><img decoding=\"async\" title=\"Traditional SEO vs LLM Semantic Matching\" alt=\"Traditional SEO vs LLM Semantic Matching\" data-aspect-ratio=\"1.21\" src=\"https:\/\/backlinko.com\/app\/uploads\/2025\/06\/traditional-seo-vs-llm-semantic-matching-scaled.png\" loading=\"lazy\" \/><\/p><\/figure>\n<p>LLMs focus on identifying the most relevant content chunks, rather than the highest-ranking pages.<\/p>\n<p>The result?<\/p>\n<p>While strong Google rankings often correlate with LLM citations, the relationship isn\u2019t perfectly linear.<\/p>\n<p>Content ranking lower in traditional search can still get cited by AI systems when it provides the most relevant, specific answer to what users are asking.<\/p>\n<p>To win this transition, continue building comprehensive topical authority. It\u2019s the same principle that has driven SEO success, but now even more critical for LLM visibility.<\/p>\n<div class=\"sc-quote alert blue-box font-georgia type-normal transparent-img-bg\">\n<div class=\"media\">\n<figure class=\"sc-picture media-left hidden-sm-down\">\n            <img decoding=\"async\" src=\"https:\/\/backlinko.com\/app\/uploads\/2024\/06\/icon-further-reading.png\" alt=\"| Craig Hordlow\" loading=\"lazy\" title=\"| Craig Hordlow\">        <\/figure>\n<div class=\"media-body\">\n<blockquote class=\"sc-quote\">\n<p><strong>Further reading:<\/strong> <a title=\"Topic Clusters 101: How to Level Up Your SEO (with Examples)\" href=\"https:\/\/backlinko.com\/topic-clusters\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noopener\">Topic Clusters 101: How to Level Up Your SEO (with Examples)<\/a><\/p>\n<\/blockquote>\n<div class=\"media\">\n<figure class=\"sc-picture media-left hidden-md-up\">\n                    <img decoding=\"async\" src=\"https:\/\/backlinko.com\/app\/uploads\/2024\/06\/icon-further-reading.png\" alt=\"| Craig Hordlow\" loading=\"lazy\" title=\"| Craig Hordlow\">                <\/figure>\n<p>                                <cite class=\"sc-name media-body media-middle\"><br \/>\n                                    <\/cite>\n            <\/p><\/div>\n<\/div>\n<\/div>\n<\/div>\n<h3><span class=\"ez-toc-section\" id=\"How_LLM_Discovery_Works_in_Practice\"><\/span>How LLM Discovery Works in Practice<span class=\"ez-toc-section-end\"><\/span><\/h3>\n<p>Here\u2019s what LLM visibility looks like:<\/p>\n<p><strong>Prompt:<\/strong> \u201cHow do I build high-quality backlinks to my website?\u201d<\/p>\n<p><strong>ChatGPT Response:<\/strong> <em>Building quality backlinks requires strategic outreach and valuable content creation. The Skyscraper Technique, popularized by Brian Dean from Backlinko, involves finding top-performing content in your niche, creating something better, then reaching out to sites that linked to the original. Other effective methods include guest posting on relevant blogs\u2026<\/em><\/p>\n<p><strong>What happens next:<\/strong> The user doesn\u2019t click anywhere. They continue asking about outreach templates and timeline expectations, then later search \u201cBacklinko Skyscraper Technique\u201d or navigate directly to backlinko.com.<\/p>\n<p><strong>The invisibility factor:<\/strong> Branding just influenced a purchase decision, but you\u2019ll never see it in referral traffic.<\/p>\n<figure class=\"backlinko-image__screenshot backlinko-image backlinko-has-border\">\n<div class=\"backlinko-img-placeholder\"><\/div>\n<p><img decoding=\"async\" title=\"Claude \u2013 Traditional Google Search vs ChatGPT Response\" alt=\"Claude \u2013 Traditional Google Search vs ChatGPT Response\" data-aspect-ratio=\"1.2928571428571\" src=\"https:\/\/backlinko.com\/app\/uploads\/2025\/06\/claude-traditional-google-search-vs-chatgpt-response-scaled.png\" loading=\"lazy\" \/><\/p><\/figure>\n<p>LLMs present information with or without links. Both drive discovery.<\/p>\n<p>Here\u2019s an example of a Perplexity response with a link:<\/p>\n<figure class=\"backlinko-image__screenshot backlinko-image backlinko-has-border\">\n<div class=\"backlinko-img-placeholder\"><\/div>\n<p><img decoding=\"async\" title=\"Perplexity \u2013 Backlinks to my website\" alt=\"Perplexity \u2013 Backlinks to my website\" data-aspect-ratio=\"0.83857142857143\" src=\"https:\/\/backlinko.com\/app\/uploads\/2025\/06\/perplexity-backlinks-to-my-website.png\" loading=\"lazy\" \/><\/p><\/figure>\n<p>Trends show that citations without links often feel more trustworthy because users don\u2019t sense they\u2019re being \u201csold to.\u201d<\/p>\n<div class=\"sc-quote alert blue-box font-georgia type-normal transparent-img-bg\">\n<div class=\"media\">\n<figure class=\"sc-picture media-left hidden-sm-down\">\n            <img decoding=\"async\" src=\"https:\/\/backlinko.com\/app\/uploads\/2024\/06\/icon-note.png\" alt=\"| Craig Hordlow\" loading=\"lazy\" title=\"| Craig Hordlow\">        <\/figure>\n<div class=\"media-body\">\n<blockquote class=\"sc-quote\">\n<p><strong>Note:<\/strong> In these examples, we\u2019re referring to RAG (Retrieval-Augmented Generation). It\u2019s where the model often conducts additional web searches (query fan-out, etc.) for complex queries.<\/p>\n<\/blockquote>\n<div class=\"media\">\n<figure class=\"sc-picture media-left hidden-md-up\">\n                    <img decoding=\"async\" src=\"https:\/\/backlinko.com\/app\/uploads\/2024\/06\/icon-note.png\" alt=\"| Craig Hordlow\" loading=\"lazy\" title=\"| Craig Hordlow\">                <\/figure>\n<p>                                <cite class=\"sc-name media-body media-middle\"><br \/>\n                                    <\/cite>\n            <\/p><\/div>\n<\/div>\n<\/div>\n<\/div>\n<h2><span class=\"ez-toc-section\" id=\"Why_Your_Analytics_Are_Blind_to_LLM_Growth_And_How_to_Fix_It\"><\/span>Why Your Analytics Are Blind to LLM Growth (And How to Fix It)<span class=\"ez-toc-section-end\"><\/span><\/h2>\n<p>Your current measurement tools can\u2019t see the biggest growth opportunity in search, but there are ways to track what actually matters.<\/p>\n<h3><span class=\"ez-toc-section\" id=\"What_Your_Dashboard_Misses\"><\/span>What Your Dashboard Misses<span class=\"ez-toc-section-end\"><\/span><\/h3>\n<p>When someone discovers you through an LLM and visits later, it appears as:<\/p>\n<ul>\n<li><strong>Direct traffic<\/strong> (typed your URL or clicked a link that didn\u2019t pass referrer data)<\/li>\n<li><strong>Branded search<\/strong> (Googled your name)<\/li>\n<li><strong>Unknown or untagged referral<\/strong> (bookmarked and returned)<\/li>\n<\/ul>\n<p>It\u2019s worth repeating, there\u2019s often zero attribution to the LLM mention.<\/p>\n<h3><span class=\"ez-toc-section\" id=\"Why_Traditional_Metrics_Fail\"><\/span>Why Traditional Metrics Fail<span class=\"ez-toc-section-end\"><\/span><\/h3>\n<p>Google Analytics and Google Search Console were designed for a click-based world.<\/p>\n<p><strong>Old customer journey:<\/strong> See result \u2192 Click \u2192 Convert (trackable)<\/p>\n<p><strong>New customer journey:<\/strong> See AI mention \u2192 Research brand \u2192 Visit directly later (invisible)<\/p>\n<p>It\u2019s a measurement paradox. Your most effective discovery channel is completely hidden.<\/p>\n<figure class=\"backlinko-image__visual-chart backlinko-image\">\n<div class=\"backlinko-img-placeholder\"><\/div>\n<p><img decoding=\"async\" title=\"Why Traditional Metrics Fail\" alt=\"Why Traditional Metrics Fail\" data-aspect-ratio=\"0.75571428571429\" src=\"https:\/\/backlinko.com\/app\/uploads\/2025\/06\/why-traditional-metrics-fail.png\" loading=\"lazy\" \/><\/p><\/figure>\n<p>Quick rant:<\/p>\n<p>Google isn\u2019t adding access to traffic data for AI Mode or AI Overviews.<\/p>\n<p>I believe it\u2019s because it\u2019ll reveal just how little traffic both are actually driving to external websites.<\/p>\n<p>Maybe the tide will turn, and eventually, they\u2019ll add the data to their tools. Time will tell.<\/p>\n<h3><span class=\"ez-toc-section\" id=\"How_to_Track_Your_LLM_Visibility\"><\/span>How to Track Your LLM Visibility<span class=\"ez-toc-section-end\"><\/span><\/h3>\n<p>It\u2019s worth acknowledging that LLM visibility tools are new and evolving.<\/p>\n<p>I\u2019ve been using <a title=\"The Semrush AI Toolkit: Turn AI Mentions Into Business Wins\" href=\"https:\/\/www.semrush.com\/semrush-ai-toolkit\/\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noopener\">Semrush\u2019s AI Toolkit<\/a> as it provides insights into how your brand compares to competitors in LLMs.<\/p>\n<p>For Backlinko, I added four competitors, and here\u2019s what the report looks like for ChatGPT visibility.<\/p>\n<figure class=\"backlinko-image__screenshot backlinko-image backlinko-has-border\">\n<div class=\"backlinko-img-placeholder\"><\/div>\n<p><img decoding=\"async\" title=\"Semrush AI Toolkit \u2013 Dashboard \u2013 Backlinko &amp; Competitors\" alt=\"Semrush AI Toolkit \u2013 Dashboard \u2013 Backlinko &amp; Competitors\" data-aspect-ratio=\"1.0528571428571\" src=\"https:\/\/backlinko.com\/app\/uploads\/2025\/06\/semrush-ai-toolkit-dashboard-backlinko-and-competitors-scaled.png\" loading=\"lazy\" \/><\/p><\/figure>\n<p>Semrush leads with a 33% market share, followed by Ahrefs at 25%. Unfortunately, we\u2019re sitting at 5%.<\/p>\n<div class=\"sc-quote alert blue-box font-georgia type-normal transparent-img-bg\">\n<div class=\"media\">\n<figure class=\"sc-picture media-left hidden-sm-down\">\n            <img decoding=\"async\" src=\"https:\/\/backlinko.com\/app\/uploads\/2024\/06\/icon-note.png\" alt=\"| Craig Hordlow\" loading=\"lazy\" title=\"| Craig Hordlow\">        <\/figure>\n<div class=\"media-body\">\n<blockquote class=\"sc-quote\">\n<p><strong>Caveat:<\/strong> we\u2019re not a product company, and we have much smaller brand demand than Semrush and Ahrefs.<\/p>\n<p>This matters because LLM visibility may correlate with brand awareness and search volume. Brands with more online discussion and search demand typically have more content and mentions for LLMs to discover and cite.<\/p>\n<\/blockquote>\n<div class=\"media\">\n<figure class=\"sc-picture media-left hidden-md-up\">\n                    <img decoding=\"async\" src=\"https:\/\/backlinko.com\/app\/uploads\/2024\/06\/icon-note.png\" alt=\"| Craig Hordlow\" loading=\"lazy\" title=\"| Craig Hordlow\">                <\/figure>\n<p>                                <cite class=\"sc-name media-body media-middle\"><br \/>\n                                    <\/cite>\n            <\/p><\/div>\n<\/div>\n<\/div>\n<\/div>\n<p>Yes, how often you\u2019re being mentioned in LLMs is crucial. <strong>But how you get mentioned matters just as much.<\/strong><\/p>\n<p>Back to the Semrush AI Toolkit, Brand &amp; Marketing dashboard shows shifts in sentiment among LLMs.<\/p>\n<p>Backlinko consistently has a high favorable sentiment share.<\/p>\n<figure class=\"backlinko-image__screenshot backlinko-image backlinko-has-border\">\n<div class=\"backlinko-img-placeholder\"><\/div>\n<p><img decoding=\"async\" title=\"Semrush AI Toolkit \u2013 Brand &amp; Marketing \u2013 Backlinko &amp; Competitors\" alt=\"Semrush AI Toolkit \u2013 Brand &amp; Marketing \u2013 Backlinko &amp; Competitors\" data-aspect-ratio=\"0.53857142857143\" src=\"https:\/\/backlinko.com\/app\/uploads\/2025\/06\/semrush-ai-toolkit-brand-and-marketing-backlinko-and-competitors.png\" loading=\"lazy\" \/><\/p><\/figure>\n<p>The Strategic Opportunities section shows where the gaps are and helps you prioritize the execution by timeframe.<\/p>\n<figure class=\"backlinko-image__screenshot backlinko-image backlinko-has-border\">\n<div class=\"backlinko-img-placeholder\"><\/div>\n<p><img decoding=\"async\" title=\"Semrush AI Toolkit \u2013 Backlinko \u2013 AI Strategic Opportunities\" alt=\"Semrush AI Toolkit \u2013 Backlinko \u2013 AI Strategic Opportunities\" data-aspect-ratio=\"1.0142857142857\" src=\"https:\/\/backlinko.com\/app\/uploads\/2025\/06\/semrush-ai-toolkit-backlinko-ai-strategic-opportunities.png\" loading=\"lazy\" \/><\/p><\/figure>\n<p>So, instead of fighting for the same top rankings, you can build authority in overlooked niches where LLMs need better sources.<\/p>\n<p>Track these metrics monthly:<\/p>\n<ul>\n<li><strong>Visibility score changes<\/strong> across different LLM models<\/li>\n<li><strong>Branded search correlation<\/strong> in Google Search Console<\/li>\n<li><strong>Market share shifts<\/strong> vs competitors<\/li>\n<\/ul>\n<p>Semrush\u2019s <a title=\"AI Optimization by Semrush Enterprise\" href=\"https:\/\/www.semrush.com\/lp\/enterprise-aio\/en\/\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noopener\">Enterprise AIO<\/a> offers even more powerful ways to monitor brand visibility in LLMs.<\/p>\n<div class=\"sc-quote alert blue-box font-georgia type-normal transparent-img-bg\">\n<div class=\"media\">\n<figure class=\"sc-picture media-left hidden-sm-down\">\n            <img decoding=\"async\" src=\"https:\/\/backlinko.com\/app\/uploads\/2024\/06\/icon-tip.png\" alt=\"| Craig Hordlow\" loading=\"lazy\" title=\"| Craig Hordlow\">        <\/figure>\n<div class=\"media-body\">\n<blockquote class=\"sc-quote\">\n<p><strong>Pro tip:<\/strong> When you see visibility increases, correlate them with branded search spikes in GSC to estimate real business impact.<\/p>\n<\/blockquote>\n<div class=\"media\">\n<figure class=\"sc-picture media-left hidden-md-up\">\n                    <img decoding=\"async\" src=\"https:\/\/backlinko.com\/app\/uploads\/2024\/06\/icon-tip.png\" alt=\"| Craig Hordlow\" loading=\"lazy\" title=\"| Craig Hordlow\">                <\/figure>\n<p>                                <cite class=\"sc-name media-body media-middle\"><br \/>\n                                    <\/cite>\n            <\/p><\/div>\n<\/div>\n<\/div>\n<\/div>\n<h3><span class=\"ez-toc-section\" id=\"The_Measurement_Mindset_Shift\"><\/span>The Measurement Mindset Shift<span class=\"ez-toc-section-end\"><\/span><\/h3>\n<p>Traditional SEO measurement focuses on <strong>traffic and tracked conversions<\/strong>.<\/p>\n<p>LLM visibility measurement focuses on <strong>influence created<\/strong>.<\/p>\n<p>Instead of asking \u201cHow many clicks did we get?\u201d ask \u201cHow much authority did we build?\u201d<\/p>\n<p>The businesses that adopt this measurement philosophy first will have a massive advantage in AI-driven search.<\/p>\n<h2><span class=\"ez-toc-section\" id=\"Building_Authority_That_AI_Actually_Recognizes\"><\/span>Building Authority That AI Actually Recognizes<span class=\"ez-toc-section-end\"><\/span><\/h2>\n<p>Here\u2019s the good news:<\/p>\n<p>Building authority for LLM visibility isn\u2019t about throwing out everything you know about SEO.<\/p>\n<p>What makes content trustworthy for people \u2014 like clear structure, real expertise, and thorough coverage \u2014 also helps AI systems see it as authoritative.<\/p>\n<p>But there are some nuances worth understanding.<\/p>\n<h3><span class=\"ez-toc-section\" id=\"Why_SEO_Authority_Still_Matters_Mostly\"><\/span>Why SEO Authority Still Matters (Mostly)<span class=\"ez-toc-section-end\"><\/span><\/h3>\n<p>Again, your existing SEO work isn\u2019t wasted.<\/p>\n<p>LLMs mine the same content ecosystem as search engines, but they have different priorities.<\/p>\n<p>We\u2019re at a critical inflection point where everyone is moving fast and low-quality content is becoming rampant.<\/p>\n<p>Google search used to be messy. I mean, it\u2019s not perfect now, but it\u2019s vastly better than pre-2010.<\/p>\n<p>For LLMs to succeed long-term, they need to maintain and develop ways to promote real authority and trustworthy sources, not just those who cheaply game the system.<\/p>\n<p>The overlap between traditional SEO authority and LLM visibility is significant:<\/p>\n<ul>\n<li><strong>Content depth and expertise<\/strong> matter to both systems<\/li>\n<li><strong>Clear information architecture<\/strong> helps both humans and AI navigate your content<\/li>\n<li><strong>Consistent topic coverage<\/strong> builds authority across platforms<\/li>\n<li><strong>Original insights and data<\/strong> get cited by both search engines and LLMs<\/li>\n<\/ul>\n<figure class=\"backlinko-image__visual-chart backlinko-image\">\n<div class=\"backlinko-img-placeholder\"><\/div>\n<p><img decoding=\"async\" title=\"Building Authority for Both Search Engines &amp; LLMS\" alt=\"Building Authority for Both Search Engines &amp; LLMS\" data-aspect-ratio=\"0.65428571428571\" src=\"https:\/\/backlinko.com\/app\/uploads\/2025\/06\/building-authority-for-both-search-engines-and-llmss.png\" loading=\"lazy\" \/><\/p><\/figure>\n<p>Where things diverge is in the details. And those details create opportunities.<\/p>\n<h3><span class=\"ez-toc-section\" id=\"Expertise_Depth_Over_Keyword_Coverage\"><\/span>Expertise Depth Over Keyword Coverage<span class=\"ez-toc-section-end\"><\/span><\/h3>\n<p>You\u2019ve probably heard SEO advice that creates a false choice between keyword optimization and <a title=\"Quality SEO Content: The QRIES Approach for Better Rankings\" href=\"https:\/\/backlinko.com\/quality-seo-content\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noopener\">content quality<\/a>.<\/p>\n<p>But if you\u2019ve been following sound SEO principles, you already know that keywords are simply demand signals.<\/p>\n<p>They\u2019re data points that help you understand what your audience wants to learn and prioritize your content efforts.<\/p>\n<p>LLMs have made this quality-first approach non-negotiable.<\/p>\n<p>The citation analysis shows that AI systems consistently favor sources that demonstrate genuine expertise. Content that covers edge cases, recognises complexity, and shares insights from real experience.<\/p>\n<p>Surface-level content aggregation used to rank well just by optimizing keywords. Now, it gets fewer mentions in AI responses.<\/p>\n<p>This isn\u2019t because LLMs dislike keywords. It\u2019s because they\u2019re better at recognizing and rewarding authentic expertise.<\/p>\n<figure class=\"backlinko-image__visual-chart backlinko-image\">\n<div class=\"backlinko-img-placeholder\"><\/div>\n<p><img decoding=\"async\" title=\"The SEO Evolution: LLMS Validate Quality-first Approach\" alt=\"The SEO Evolution: LLMS Validate Quality-first Approach\" data-aspect-ratio=\"0.71428571428571\" src=\"https:\/\/backlinko.com\/app\/uploads\/2025\/06\/the-seo-evolution-llms-validate-quality-first-approach.png\" loading=\"lazy\" \/><\/p><\/figure>\n<p>This means sharing process details, insightful nuances, and clear methods that both people and AI see as trustworthy.<\/p>\n<p>Include the details that only practitioners would know.<\/p>\n<p>Acknowledge when approaches don\u2019t work and explain why.<\/p>\n<p>Be clear and precise in your explanations. This helps both humans and AI systems understand your expertise accurately.<\/p>\n<p>LLMs have simply made the stakes higher for thin content while rewarding the approach that quality-focused practitioners have always advocated.<\/p>\n<h2><span class=\"ez-toc-section\" id=\"The_Strategic_Citation_Playbook\"><\/span>The Strategic Citation Playbook<span class=\"ez-toc-section-end\"><\/span><\/h2>\n<p>If you\u2019ve been building <a title=\"7 Top Strategies to Get High Quality Backlinks\" href=\"https:\/\/backlinko.com\/high-quality-backlinks\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noopener\">quality backlinks<\/a>, you\u2019re already 70% of the way to LLM citation success.<\/p>\n<p>The research reveals that citation-worthy content follows similar principles to link-worthy content, with a few critical differences in how citations actually work.<\/p>\n<h3><span class=\"ez-toc-section\" id=\"How_to_Get_Cited_Alongside_Competitors\"><\/span>How to Get Cited Alongside Competitors<span class=\"ez-toc-section-end\"><\/span><\/h3>\n<p>The research shows a clear pattern among top-cited brands. They consistently appear alongside other authorities in expert clusters.<\/p>\n<p>When industry publications discuss \u201cbest practices for X,\u201d they cite multiple experts.<\/p>\n<p>Your goal is to be part of that conversation.<\/p>\n<figure class=\"backlinko-image__visual-chart backlinko-image\">\n<div class=\"backlinko-img-placeholder\"><\/div>\n<p><img decoding=\"async\" title=\"The Co-citation Authority Pattern\" alt=\"The Co-citation Authority Pattern\" data-aspect-ratio=\"0.58428571428571\" src=\"https:\/\/backlinko.com\/app\/uploads\/2025\/06\/the-co-citation-authority-pattern.png\" loading=\"lazy\" \/><\/p><\/figure>\n<p><strong>Practical focus:<\/strong><\/p>\n<ul>\n<li>Guest post on publications that already cite your competitors<\/li>\n<li>Participate in expert roundups where your insights add genuine value<\/li>\n<li>Comment thoughtfully on high-authority industry content with detailed expertise<\/li>\n<\/ul>\n<h3><span class=\"ez-toc-section\" id=\"Citations_vs_Links_Whats_Different\"><\/span>Citations vs. Links: What\u2019s Different<span class=\"ez-toc-section-end\"><\/span><\/h3>\n<p>LLM citation patterns mirror what quality-focused SEOs have always known: authoritative sources carry more weight than weak ones.<\/p>\n<figure class=\"backlinko-image__visual-chart backlinko-image\">\n<div class=\"backlinko-img-placeholder\"><\/div>\n<p><img decoding=\"async\" title=\"Citation Value: Quality vs Quantity\" alt=\"Citation Value: Quality vs Quantity\" data-aspect-ratio=\"0.55571428571429\" src=\"https:\/\/backlinko.com\/app\/uploads\/2025\/06\/citation-value-quality-vs-quantity.png\" loading=\"lazy\" \/><\/p><\/figure>\n<p>But there are key differences from traditional link building.<\/p>\n<ul>\n<li><strong>Citations don\u2019t require links:<\/strong> A thoughtful Reddit comment or YouTube video description can carry citation weight without clickable links back to your site.<\/li>\n<li><strong>Content depth beats ranking position:<\/strong> LLMs evaluate expertise independently of SERP rankings. Your detailed comparison post ranking on page 6 can become your most-cited asset.<\/li>\n<\/ul>\n<p>To win LLM visibility, strategically place your expertise where AI systems recognize genuine authority.<\/p>\n<h2><span class=\"ez-toc-section\" id=\"Why_Your_Small_Brand_Can_Compete_in_LLMs\"><\/span>Why Your Small Brand Can Compete in LLMs<span class=\"ez-toc-section-end\"><\/span><\/h2>\n<p>The LLM visibility shift creates the biggest opportunity for smaller brands since the early days of SEO.<\/p>\n<p>While established competitors fight for the same top rankings, you can build authority in the spaces they\u2019re ignoring.<\/p>\n<figure class=\"backlinko-image__visual-chart backlinko-image\">\n<div class=\"backlinko-img-placeholder\"><\/div>\n<p><img decoding=\"async\" title=\"The Playing Field is Leveling\" alt=\"The Playing Field is Leveling\" data-aspect-ratio=\"0.57\" src=\"https:\/\/backlinko.com\/app\/uploads\/2025\/06\/the-playing-field-is-leveling.png\" loading=\"lazy\" \/><\/p><\/figure>\n<div class=\"sc-quote alert blue-box font-georgia type-normal transparent-img-bg\">\n<div class=\"media\">\n<figure class=\"sc-picture media-left hidden-sm-down\">\n            <img decoding=\"async\" src=\"https:\/\/backlinko.com\/app\/uploads\/2025\/03\/icon-remember-v2.png\" alt=\"| Craig Hordlow\" loading=\"lazy\" title=\"| Craig Hordlow\">        <\/figure>\n<div class=\"media-body\">\n<blockquote class=\"sc-quote\">\n<p><strong>Remember:<\/strong> Almost 90% of ChatGPT citations come from long-tail results.<\/p>\n<\/blockquote>\n<div class=\"media\">\n<figure class=\"sc-picture media-left hidden-md-up\">\n                    <img decoding=\"async\" src=\"https:\/\/backlinko.com\/app\/uploads\/2025\/03\/icon-remember-v2.png\" alt=\"| Craig Hordlow\" loading=\"lazy\" title=\"| Craig Hordlow\">                <\/figure>\n<p>                                <cite class=\"sc-name media-body media-middle\"><br \/>\n                                    <\/cite>\n            <\/p><\/div>\n<\/div>\n<\/div>\n<\/div>\n<p>Your niche expertise on \u201cB2B SaaS customer onboarding analytics\u201d has the same citation potential as a Fortune 500 company\u2019s homepage about \u201cbusiness software.\u201d<\/p>\n<h3><span class=\"ez-toc-section\" id=\"Speed_Beats_Scale\"><\/span>Speed Beats Scale<span class=\"ez-toc-section-end\"><\/span><\/h3>\n<p>Big brands move slowly. Committee approvals, legal reviews, and corporate messaging requirements create lag time.<\/p>\n<p>You can capitalize on emerging trends, respond to breaking news in your industry, and share real-time insights that LLMs value for currency and relevance.<\/p>\n<p>When a new platform launches or regulations change, you can publish authoritative analysis within hours while competitors are still scheduling meetings.<\/p>\n<h3><span class=\"ez-toc-section\" id=\"The_Community_Multiplier_Effect\"><\/span>The Community Multiplier Effect<span class=\"ez-toc-section-end\"><\/span><\/h3>\n<p>Your engaged audience amplifies LLM visibility in ways traditional SEO can\u2019t measure.<\/p>\n<p>When customers share your insights in Slack channels, Discord servers, or LinkedIn comments, they\u2019re creating citation pathways that LLMs discover and value.<\/p>\n<p>A single detailed Reddit comment from a satisfied customer can carry more LLM authority than a generic press release.<\/p>\n<figure class=\"backlinko-image__screenshot backlinko-image backlinko-has-border\">\n<div class=\"backlinko-img-placeholder\"><\/div>\n<p><img decoding=\"async\" title=\"Reddit \u2013 Comment from a satisfied customer\" alt=\"Reddit \u2013 Comment from a satisfied customer\" data-aspect-ratio=\"0.49538461538462\" src=\"https:\/\/backlinko.com\/app\/uploads\/2025\/06\/reddit-comment-from-a-satisfied-customer.png\" loading=\"lazy\" \/><\/p><\/figure>\n<h3><span class=\"ez-toc-section\" id=\"Start_Small_Win_Big\"><\/span>Start Small, Win Big<span class=\"ez-toc-section-end\"><\/span><\/h3>\n<p>Pick one sub-topic where you have genuine expertise. Become THE authoritative voice on that specific area.<\/p>\n<p>Instead of competing for \u201cproject management software,\u201d own \u201cproject management for creative agencies with remote teams.\u201d<\/p>\n<p>Target long-tail prompts where competition is lighter and your specific experience matters most.<\/p>\n<p>Track your progress with tools like Semrush\u2019s <a title=\"The Semrush AI Toolkit: Turn AI Mentions Into Business Wins\" href=\"https:\/\/www.semrush.com\/semrush-ai-toolkit\/\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noopener\">AI Toolkit<\/a> and <a title=\"AI Optimization by Semrush Enterprise\" href=\"https:\/\/www.semrush.com\/lp\/enterprise-aio\/en\/\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noopener\">Enterprise AIO<\/a> to see your authority build across conversations that matter to your business.<\/p>\n<p>Lastly, be wary of anyone definitively selling you GEO, AI Search Optimization, or whatever term they\u2019re using.<\/p>\n<p>We\u2019re in a fluid and developing environment, but the fundamentals remain key.<\/p>\n<p>Focus on building a brand and think about how to create the right content that will stand up over time.<\/p>\n<p>Avoid shortcuts and quick wins that are risky.<\/p>\n<p>Your move.<\/p>\n<p>The post <a href=\"https:\/\/backlinko.com\/llm-visibility\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noopener\">LLM Visibility: The SEO Metric No One Is Reporting On (Yet)<\/a> appeared first on <a href=\"https:\/\/backlinko.com\/\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noopener\">Backlinko<\/a>.<\/p>","protected":false},"excerpt":{"rendered":"<p>You lost half your Google traffic. But suddenly\u2026more people are searching for your brand. What\u2019s going on? Welcome to the invisible influence of LLMs, where your visibility goes up even when traffic goes down. New research from Semrush reveals a seismic shift happening right now: LLM traffic will completely overtake traditional Google search by 2027. There\u2019s A LOT to think through here. The good news? If you\u2019re already doing quality SEO, you\u2019re 70% of the way there. The next step is to ensure your expertise is [&hellip;]<\/p>\n","protected":false},"author":1,"featured_media":13258,"comment_status":"open","ping_status":"open","sticky":false,"template":"","format":"standard","meta":{"h5ap_radio_sources":[],"cybocfi_hide_featured_image":"","footnotes":""},"categories":[8],"tags":[],"class_list":["post-13257","post","type-post","status-publish","format-standard","has-post-thumbnail","hentry","category-backlinko"],"featured_image_src":"https:\/\/craighordlow.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2025\/06\/google-and-llm-unique-visitor-growth-projection-moderate-case-N4xsAa-600x400.png","featured_image_src_square":"https:\/\/craighordlow.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2025\/06\/google-and-llm-unique-visitor-growth-projection-moderate-case-N4xsAa-600x600.png","author_info":{"display_name":false,"author_link":"https:\/\/craighordlow.com\/author\/craig\/"},"_links":{"self":[{"href":"https:\/\/craighordlow.com\/index.php\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/posts\/13257","targetHints":{"allow":["GET"]}}],"collection":[{"href":"https:\/\/craighordlow.com\/index.php\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/posts"}],"about":[{"href":"https:\/\/craighordlow.com\/index.php\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/types\/post"}],"author":[{"embeddable":true,"href":"https:\/\/craighordlow.com\/index.php\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/users\/1"}],"replies":[{"embeddable":true,"href":"https:\/\/craighordlow.com\/index.php\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/comments?post=13257"}],"version-history":[{"count":0,"href":"https:\/\/craighordlow.com\/index.php\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/posts\/13257\/revisions"}],"wp:featuredmedia":[{"embeddable":true,"href":"https:\/\/craighordlow.com\/index.php\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/media\/13258"}],"wp:attachment":[{"href":"https:\/\/craighordlow.com\/index.php\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/media?parent=13257"}],"wp:term":[{"taxonomy":"category","embeddable":true,"href":"https:\/\/craighordlow.com\/index.php\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/categories?post=13257"},{"taxonomy":"post_tag","embeddable":true,"href":"https:\/\/craighordlow.com\/index.php\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/tags?post=13257"}],"curies":[{"name":"wp","href":"https:\/\/api.w.org\/{rel}","templated":true}]}}