{"id":13873,"date":"2025-09-10T14:53:21","date_gmt":"2025-09-10T14:53:21","guid":{"rendered":"https:\/\/craighordlow.com\/index.php\/2025\/09\/10\/ai-search-strategy-the-seen-trusted-brand-framework\/"},"modified":"2025-09-10T14:53:21","modified_gmt":"2025-09-10T14:53:21","slug":"ai-search-strategy-the-seen-trusted-brand-framework","status":"publish","type":"post","link":"https:\/\/craighordlow.com\/index.php\/2025\/09\/10\/ai-search-strategy-the-seen-trusted-brand-framework\/","title":{"rendered":"AI Search Strategy: The Seen &amp; Trusted Brand Framework"},"content":{"rendered":"<p>AI is already reshaping how buyers discover and choose brands.<\/p>\n<p>When someone asks ChatGPT or Google AI Mode about your category, two things happen:<\/p>\n<ul>\n<li>Brands are <strong>mentioned<\/strong> in the answer<\/li>\n<li>Sources are <strong>cited<\/strong> as proof<\/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=\"AI Search Visibility\" alt=\"AI Search Visibility\" data-aspect-ratio=\"0.86142857142857\" src=\"https:\/\/backlinko.com\/app\/uploads\/2025\/09\/ai-search-visibility.png\" loading=\"lazy\" \/><\/p><\/figure>\n<p>Most companies get one or the other. Very few win both.<\/p>\n<p>And that\u2019s the problem.<\/p>\n<p>According to the latest <a title=\"AI Visibility Index\" href=\"https:\/\/ai-visibility-index.semrush.com\/\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noopener\">Semrush Enterprise AI Visibility Index<\/a>, only a small fraction of companies appear in AI answers as both seen (mentions) and trusted (citations).<\/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 \u2013 AI Visibility Index Study \u2013 Source-Mention Overlap\" alt=\"Semrush \u2013 AI Visibility Index Study \u2013 Source-Mention Overlap\" data-aspect-ratio=\"0.55142857142857\" src=\"https:\/\/backlinko.com\/app\/uploads\/2025\/09\/semrush-ai-visibility-index-study-source-mention-overlap.png\" loading=\"lazy\" \/><\/p><\/figure>\n<p>That gap is the opportunity.<\/p>\n<p>We\u2019re proposing the <strong>Seen &amp; Trusted (S&amp;T) Framework<\/strong> \u2014 a systematic approach to help your brand earn mentions in AI answers and citations as a trusted source.<\/p>\n<p>Do both, and you multiply visibility, trust, and conversions across platforms like ChatGPT, Google AI Mode, and Perplexity.<\/p>\n<p>SEO remains the foundation.<\/p>\n<p>But AI doesn\u2019t just look at your site. It pulls signals from review platforms, Reddit threads, news coverage, support docs, and community discussions.<\/p>\n<p>When those signals are fragmented, your competitors will own the conversation.<\/p>\n<p>This guide shows you exactly how to fix that with two playbooks:<\/p>\n<ul>\n<li><strong>Get Seen:<\/strong> Win favorable mentions in AI answers<\/li>\n<li><strong>Be Trusted:<\/strong> Earn citations as a reliable source<\/li>\n<\/ul>\n<p>Run them together and you give AI no choice but to recognize, reference, and recommend your brand.<\/p>\n<aside class=\"sc-semrush-cta semrush-form\">\n<header>\n<div>\n<p class=\"h3\">Ready to Build Your AI Search Strategy?<\/p>\n<p>Analyze your current AI visibility. See how often your brand is mentioned and cited in ChatGPT, Google AI Mode, and more.<\/p>\n<\/div>\n<\/header>\n<p>        <button class=\"btn btn-orange\" type=\"submit\">Check Visibility<\/button><\/p>\n<footer>\n<figure>\n            <img decoding=\"async\" src=\"https:\/\/backlinko.com\/app\/themes\/backlinko\/dist\/images\/semrush-logo_50c66e41.svg\" alt=\"Semrush Logo\" loading=\"lazy\" title=\"| Craig Hordlow\"><br \/>\n          <\/figure>\n<figure>\n            <img decoding=\"async\" src=\"https:\/\/backlinko.com\/app\/themes\/backlinko\/dist\/images\/backlinko-logo_fcd71cff.svg\" alt=\"Backlinko Logo\" loading=\"lazy\" title=\"| Craig Hordlow\"><br \/>\n          <\/figure>\n<\/footer>\n<\/aside>\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\/09\/10\/ai-search-strategy-the-seen-trusted-brand-framework\/#Why_AI_Search_Strategy_Isnt_Just_SEOs_Job\" >Why AI Search Strategy Isn\u2019t Just SEO\u2019s Job<\/a><\/li><li class='ez-toc-page-1 ez-toc-heading-level-2'><a class=\"ez-toc-link ez-toc-heading-2\" href=\"https:\/\/craighordlow.com\/index.php\/2025\/09\/10\/ai-search-strategy-the-seen-trusted-brand-framework\/#Playbook_1_%E2%80%93_How_to_Get_Seen_The_Sentiment_Battle\" >Playbook 1 \u2013 How to Get Seen (The Sentiment Battle)<\/a><ul class='ez-toc-list-level-3' ><li class='ez-toc-heading-level-3'><a class=\"ez-toc-link ez-toc-heading-3\" href=\"https:\/\/craighordlow.com\/index.php\/2025\/09\/10\/ai-search-strategy-the-seen-trusted-brand-framework\/#Step_1_Build_Presence_on_the_Right_Review_Sites\" >Step 1. Build Presence on the Right Review Sites<\/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\/09\/10\/ai-search-strategy-the-seen-trusted-brand-framework\/#Step_2_Participate_in_Community_Discussions\" >Step 2. Participate in Community Discussions<\/a><\/li><li class='ez-toc-page-1 ez-toc-heading-level-3'><a class=\"ez-toc-link ez-toc-heading-5\" href=\"https:\/\/craighordlow.com\/index.php\/2025\/09\/10\/ai-search-strategy-the-seen-trusted-brand-framework\/#Step_3_Engineer_UGC_and_Social_Proof\" >Step 3. Engineer UGC and Social Proof<\/a><\/li><li class='ez-toc-page-1 ez-toc-heading-level-3'><a class=\"ez-toc-link ez-toc-heading-6\" href=\"https:\/\/craighordlow.com\/index.php\/2025\/09\/10\/ai-search-strategy-the-seen-trusted-brand-framework\/#Step_4_Secure_%E2%80%9CBest_of%E2%80%9D_List_Inclusions\" >Step 4. Secure \u201cBest of\u201d List Inclusions<\/a><\/li><\/ul><\/li><li class='ez-toc-page-1 ez-toc-heading-level-2'><a class=\"ez-toc-link ez-toc-heading-7\" href=\"https:\/\/craighordlow.com\/index.php\/2025\/09\/10\/ai-search-strategy-the-seen-trusted-brand-framework\/#Playbook_2_%E2%80%93_How_to_Be_Trusted_The_Authority_Game\" >Playbook 2 \u2013 How to Be Trusted (The Authority Game)<\/a><ul class='ez-toc-list-level-3' ><li class='ez-toc-heading-level-3'><a class=\"ez-toc-link ez-toc-heading-8\" href=\"https:\/\/craighordlow.com\/index.php\/2025\/09\/10\/ai-search-strategy-the-seen-trusted-brand-framework\/#Step_1_Optimize_Your_Official_Site_for_AI\" >Step 1. Optimize Your Official Site for AI<\/a><\/li><li class='ez-toc-page-1 ez-toc-heading-level-3'><a class=\"ez-toc-link ez-toc-heading-9\" href=\"https:\/\/craighordlow.com\/index.php\/2025\/09\/10\/ai-search-strategy-the-seen-trusted-brand-framework\/#Step_2_Maintain_Wikipedia_Knowledge_Graph_Accuracy\" >Step 2. Maintain Wikipedia + Knowledge Graph Accuracy<\/a><\/li><li class='ez-toc-page-1 ez-toc-heading-level-3'><a class=\"ez-toc-link ez-toc-heading-10\" href=\"https:\/\/craighordlow.com\/index.php\/2025\/09\/10\/ai-search-strategy-the-seen-trusted-brand-framework\/#Step_3_Publish_Transparent_Pricing\" >Step 3. Publish Transparent Pricing<\/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\/09\/10\/ai-search-strategy-the-seen-trusted-brand-framework\/#Step_4_Expand_Documentation_FAQs\" >Step 4. Expand Documentation &amp; FAQs<\/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\/09\/10\/ai-search-strategy-the-seen-trusted-brand-framework\/#Step_5_Create_Original_Research_That_AI_Wants_to_Cite\" >Step 5. Create Original Research That AI Wants to Cite<\/a><\/li><\/ul><\/li><li class='ez-toc-page-1 ez-toc-heading-level-2'><a class=\"ez-toc-link ez-toc-heading-13\" href=\"https:\/\/craighordlow.com\/index.php\/2025\/09\/10\/ai-search-strategy-the-seen-trusted-brand-framework\/#Pulling_It_All_Together_%E2%80%93_Running_Both_Playbooks\" >Pulling It All Together \u2013 Running Both Playbooks<\/a><ul class='ez-toc-list-level-3' ><li class='ez-toc-heading-level-3'><a class=\"ez-toc-link ez-toc-heading-14\" href=\"https:\/\/craighordlow.com\/index.php\/2025\/09\/10\/ai-search-strategy-the-seen-trusted-brand-framework\/#Step_1_Audit_Your_Current_AI_Visibility\" >Step 1. Audit Your Current AI Visibility<\/a><\/li><li class='ez-toc-page-1 ez-toc-heading-level-3'><a class=\"ez-toc-link ez-toc-heading-15\" href=\"https:\/\/craighordlow.com\/index.php\/2025\/09\/10\/ai-search-strategy-the-seen-trusted-brand-framework\/#Step_2_Build_Parallel_Campaigns\" >Step 2. Build Parallel Campaigns<\/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\/09\/10\/ai-search-strategy-the-seen-trusted-brand-framework\/#Step_3_Monitor_and_Iterate\" >Step 3. Monitor and Iterate<\/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\/09\/10\/ai-search-strategy-the-seen-trusted-brand-framework\/#The_AI_Visibility_Window_is_Open\" >The AI Visibility Window is Open<\/a><\/li><\/ul><\/nav><\/div>\n<h2><span class=\"ez-toc-section\" id=\"Why_AI_Search_Strategy_Isnt_Just_SEOs_Job\"><\/span>Why AI Search Strategy Isn\u2019t Just SEO\u2019s Job<span class=\"ez-toc-section-end\"><\/span><\/h2>\n<p>Your SEO team can optimize every page on your site and still lose AI visibility to a competitor with weaker rankings but stronger brand signals.<\/p>\n<p>Why? Because AI systems pull signals from everywhere, not just your website.<\/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>When AI generates responses, it mines:<\/p>\n<ul>\n<li>Review platforms for product comparisons<\/li>\n<li>Reddit threads for pricing complaints<\/li>\n<li>Developer forums for implementation details<\/li>\n<li>News sites for company credibility<\/li>\n<li>Support docs for feature explanations<\/li>\n<\/ul>\n<p>The challenge is that these signals live across different teams.<\/p>\n<p>For instance, your <strong>customer success team<\/strong> drives customer reviews on G2 and Capterra. But if they\u2019re not tracking review quality and detail, AI has nothing substantive to cite when comparing products.<\/p>\n<p>Similarly, your <strong>product team<\/strong> controls whether pricing and features are actually findable. Hide everything behind \u201cContact Sales\u201d forms, and AI will either skip you entirely or make assumptions based on old Reddit threads.<\/p>\n<p>Your <strong>PR team<\/strong> lands media coverage and analyst reports. These third-party mentions build the trust signals AI systems use to determine authority.<\/p>\n<p>Your <strong>support and community teams<\/strong> shape what gets said in forums and Discord servers. Their responses (or silence) directly influence how AI understands your product.<\/p>\n<p><strong>SEO and content teams<\/strong> own the site structure and content creation. But that\u2019s just one piece now.<\/p>\n<p>Without coordination, you get strong performance in one area, killed by weakness in another.<\/p>\n<figure class=\"backlinko-image__visual-chart backlinko-image\">\n<div class=\"backlinko-img-placeholder\"><\/div>\n<p><img decoding=\"async\" title=\"AI Search Strategy\" alt=\"AI Search Strategy\" data-aspect-ratio=\"0.82142857142857\" src=\"https:\/\/backlinko.com\/app\/uploads\/2025\/09\/ai-search-strategy.png\" loading=\"lazy\" \/><\/p><\/figure>\n<p>To grow AI visibility, you need synchronized campaigns \u2014 not just an \u201coptimize for AI\u201d line item tacked onto everyone\u2019s OKRs.<\/p>\n<p>That\u2019s where the <strong>Seen &amp; Trusted Framework<\/strong> comes in. It gives every team a role in building the signals AI depends on.<\/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 for enterprises:<\/strong> Cross-departmental coordination is challenging.<\/p>\n<p>Fortunately, any progress each team makes in their area directly improves AI visibility.<\/p>\n<p>Better reviews? You win. More transparent pricing? You win. Active forum engagement? You win. It all compounds.<\/p>\n<p>This guide can be your internal business case. Forward the data on AI visibility gaps to stakeholders who need to see the competitive threat.<\/p>\n<p>Solve this, and you\u2019ll gain a big edge over competitors who are stuck in silos.<\/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=\"Playbook_1_%E2%80%93_How_to_Get_Seen_The_Sentiment_Battle\"><\/span>Playbook 1 \u2013 How to Get Seen (The Sentiment Battle)<span class=\"ez-toc-section-end\"><\/span><\/h2>\n<p>Getting \u201cseen\u201d means showing up in AI responses as a mentioned brand, even without a citation link.<\/p>\n<p>When a user asks ChatGPT, \u201cWhat are the best email marketing tools?\u201d they get names like HubSpot, ActiveCampaign, and MailChimp.<\/p>\n<p>These brands just won visibility without anyone clicking through.<\/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  Brands won visibility\" alt=\"ChatGPT \u2013 Brands won visibility\" data-aspect-ratio=\"0.80857142857143\" src=\"https:\/\/backlinko.com\/app\/uploads\/2025\/09\/chatgpt-brands-won-visibility.png\" loading=\"lazy\" \/><\/p><\/figure>\n<p>But here\u2019s a challenge:<\/p>\n<p>You\u2019re fighting for favorable mentions against every competitor and alternative solution.<\/p>\n<p>This is the <strong>sentiment battle<\/strong>.<\/p>\n<p>Because AI doesn\u2019t just list brands. It characterizes them.<\/p>\n<p>You might get mentioned as \u201cexpensive but comprehensive\u201d or \u201caffordable but limited.\u201d<\/p>\n<p>Like here, when I asked ChatGPT if ActiveCampaign is a good option:<\/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  Prompt for email marketing\" alt=\"ChatGPT \u2013 Prompt for email marketing\" data-aspect-ratio=\"0.52428571428571\" src=\"https:\/\/backlinko.com\/app\/uploads\/2025\/09\/chatgpt-prompt-for-email-marketing.png\" loading=\"lazy\" \/><\/p><\/figure>\n<p>In some cases, the response could be more negative than neutral. Like this:<\/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  Respond is more negative than neutral\" alt=\"ChatGPT \u2013 Respond is more negative than neutral\" data-aspect-ratio=\"0.87428571428571\" src=\"https:\/\/backlinko.com\/app\/uploads\/2025\/09\/chatgpt-respond-more-negative-than-neutral.png\" loading=\"lazy\" \/><\/p><\/figure>\n<p>These characterizations stick.<\/p>\n<p>So, how can your brand get more mentions and have a positive sentiment around?<\/p>\n<p>There are four main sources that AI systems mine for context.<\/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> Track how AI platforms perceive your brand using <a title=\"Semrush\u2019s Enterprise AIO\" href=\"https:\/\/www.semrush.com\/lp\/enterprise-aio\/en\/?utm_campaign=llm-tracking-tools&amp;utm_source=backlinko.com&amp;utm_medium=referral&amp;_gl=1*101702t*_gcl_au*MTYxNTM0NDc4LjE3NTY3MDM4NjA.*_ga*MTEyNTk1MzYzOS4xNzQ4NDY4MTE1*_ga_HYWKMHR981*czE3NTcxMTI2NDgkbzE2OCRnMSR0MTc1NzExMjg1MiRqMTgkbDAkaDA.*_ga_BPNLXP3JQG*czE3NTcxMTI2NDgkbzEzMSRnMSR0MTc1NzExMjg1MiRqMTgkbDAkaDM4MTkzMTcyOQ..\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noopener\">Semrush\u2019s Enterprise AIO<\/a> sentiment analysis.<\/p>\n<p>It shows whether mentions across ChatGPT, Claude, and other LLMs are positive, neutral, or negative.<\/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 AIO \u2013 Backlinko \u2013 AIO Overview\" alt=\"Semrush AIO \u2013 Backlinko \u2013 AIO Overview\" data-aspect-ratio=\"0.94714285714286\" src=\"https:\/\/backlinko.com\/app\/uploads\/2025\/08\/semrush-aio-backlinko-aio-overview.png\" loading=\"lazy\" \/><\/p><\/figure>\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=\"Step_1_Build_Presence_on_the_Right_Review_Sites\"><\/span>Step 1. Build Presence on the Right Review Sites<span class=\"ez-toc-section-end\"><\/span><\/h3>\n<p>AI systems heavily weigh review platforms when comparing products. But not all reviews are equal.<\/p>\n<p>A detailed review explaining your onboarding process carries more weight than fifty \u201cGreat product!\u201d ratings.<\/p>\n<p>AI needs substance, like specific features, use cases, and outcomes it can reference when answering queries.<\/p>\n<figure class=\"backlinko-image__visual-chart backlinko-image\">\n<div class=\"backlinko-img-placeholder\"><\/div>\n<p><img decoding=\"async\" title=\"reviews\" alt=\"reviews\" data-aspect-ratio=\"0.56714285714286\" src=\"https:\/\/backlinko.com\/app\/uploads\/2025\/09\/reviews.png\" loading=\"lazy\" \/><\/p><\/figure>\n<p>G2 is one of the top sources for ChatGPT and Google AI Mode in the Digital Technology vertical, according to Semrush\u2019s AI Visibility Index.<\/p>\n<p>The platform gives AI everything it needs: reviews, features, pricing, and category comparisons all in one place.<\/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 Enterprise \u2013 Digital technology \u2013 G2\" alt=\"Semrush Enterprise \u2013 Digital technology \u2013 G2\" data-aspect-ratio=\"1.5157142857143\" src=\"https:\/\/backlinko.com\/app\/uploads\/2025\/09\/semrush-enterprise-digital-technology-g2com.png\" loading=\"lazy\" \/><\/p><\/figure>\n<p>Slack ranks among the top 20 brands by share of voice in AI responses for the Digital Technology vertical.<\/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>Share of voice is a weighted metric from Semrush that reflects how often and how prominently a brand is mentioned across AI responses.<\/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 Enterprise \u2013 Brand mentions \u2013 Digital technology\" alt=\"Semrush Enterprise \u2013 Brand mentions \u2013 Digital technology\" data-aspect-ratio=\"0.87285714285714\" src=\"https:\/\/backlinko.com\/app\/uploads\/2025\/09\/semrush-enterprise-brand-mentions-digital-technology.png\" loading=\"lazy\" \/><\/p><\/figure>\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>Part of that success comes from their G2 strategy.<\/p>\n<p>When I ask ChatGPT, \u201cIs Slack worth it?\u201d it cites G2 as one of the sources.<\/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 Is Slack worth it \u2013 G2 citation\" alt=\"ChatGPT \u2013 Is Slack worth it \u2013 G2 citation\" data-aspect-ratio=\"0.75285714285714\" src=\"https:\/\/backlinko.com\/app\/uploads\/2025\/09\/chatgpt-is-slack-worth-it-g2-citation.png\" loading=\"lazy\" \/><\/p><\/figure>\n<p>Look at Slack\u2019s G2 reviews and you\u2019ll see why.<\/p>\n<p>Its pricing, features, and other information are properly listed and up-to-date<\/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=\"Slack G2 \u2013 Pricing options\" alt=\"Slack G2 \u2013 Pricing options\" data-aspect-ratio=\"0.55428571428571\" src=\"https:\/\/backlinko.com\/app\/uploads\/2025\/09\/slack-g2-pricing-options.png\" loading=\"lazy\" \/><\/p><\/figure>\n<p>Users write detailed reviews about channel organization, workflow automation, and integration setups.<\/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=\"Slack\u2019s G2 review\" alt=\"Slack's G2 review\" data-aspect-ratio=\"1.4571428571429\" src=\"https:\/\/backlinko.com\/app\/uploads\/2025\/09\/slacks-g2-review.png\" loading=\"lazy\" \/><\/p><\/figure>\n<p>G2 isn\u2019t the only platform that matters.<\/p>\n<ul>\n<li><strong>For B2B SaaS:<\/strong> G2, Capterra, and GetApp<\/li>\n<li><strong>For ecommerce:<\/strong> Amazon reviews<\/li>\n<li><strong>For local\/service businesses:<\/strong> Yelp and Google Reviews<\/li>\n<\/ul>\n<p>In my experience, the depth of the review matters just as much as the platform \u2014 if not more.<\/p>\n<p>You\u2019ll see many very detailed product reviews as a source in AI answers from sites with low domain authority.<\/p>\n<p>So, what does this mean in practice?<\/p>\n<p>You need reviews from customers. And your review strategy needs four components:<\/p>\n<ul>\n<li><strong>Timing:<\/strong> Email customers after they\u2019ve used your product enough to give meaningful feedbac, but while the experience is still fresh<\/li>\n<li><strong>Templates:<\/strong> Provide prompts highlighting specific features to discuss. \u201cHow did our API save you development time?\u201d beats \u201cPlease review us.\u201d<\/li>\n<li><strong>Incentives:<\/strong> Reward detail over ratings. A $XX credit for reviews over 200 words can generate more AI-friendly content<\/li>\n<li><strong>Engagement:<\/strong> Respond to every review. AI systems recognize vendor engagement as a trust signal.<\/li>\n<\/ul>\n<h3><span class=\"ez-toc-section\" id=\"Step_2_Participate_in_Community_Discussions\"><\/span>Step 2. Participate in Community Discussions<span class=\"ez-toc-section-end\"><\/span><\/h3>\n<p>Community platforms are where real product conversations happen. And AI systems are listening.<\/p>\n<ul>\n<li>Reddit threads comparing alternatives<\/li>\n<li>Stack Overflow discussions about implementation<\/li>\n<li>Quora answers explaining use cases<\/li>\n<\/ul>\n<p>These unfiltered conversations shape how AI understands and recommends products.<\/p>\n<p>Reddit and Quora consistently rank among the top sources cited by ChatGPT and Google AI Mode across industries.<\/p>\n<p>Like in the Business &amp; Professional Services vertical here:<\/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 Enterprise \u2013 Business and professional services\" alt=\"Semrush Enterprise \u2013 Business and professional services\" data-aspect-ratio=\"1.6485714285714\" src=\"https:\/\/backlinko.com\/app\/uploads\/2025\/09\/semrush-enterprise-business-and-professional-services.png\" loading=\"lazy\" \/><\/p><\/figure>\n<p>Online form builder Tally is a great example of dominating community discussions and winning the AI search.<\/p>\n<p>AI-powered search is now their biggest acquisition channel, with ChatGPT being their top referrer.<\/p>\n<p>This is their weekly signup growth of the past year, driven by AI search:<\/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=\"Tally \u2013 AI powered search\" alt=\"Tally \u2013 AI powered search\" data-aspect-ratio=\"0.50428571428571\" src=\"https:\/\/backlinko.com\/app\/uploads\/2025\/09\/tally-ai-powered-search.png\" loading=\"lazy\" \/><\/p><\/figure>\n<p>How are they doing this?<\/p>\n<p>Marie Martens, co-founder of Tally, <a title=\"From 2 to $3M ARR: How We Bootstrapped Tally With a Tiny Team\" href=\"https:\/\/blog.tally.so\/from-2-to-3m-arr-how-we-bootstrapped-tally-with-a-tiny-team\/\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noopener\">writes<\/a>:<\/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\/09\/marie-martens.png\" alt=\"| Craig Hordlow\" loading=\"lazy\" title=\"| Craig Hordlow\">        <\/figure>\n<div class=\"media-body\">\n<blockquote class=\"sc-quote\">\n<p>\u201cInclusion of web browsing is turned on by default, which made forums, Reddit posts, blog mentions, and authentic UGC part of the AI\u2019s source material\u2026 We\u2019ve invested for years in showing up in those places by sharing what we learn, answering questions, and being human.\u201d<\/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\/09\/marie-martens.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>Here\u2019s Marie talking about her product on Reddit:<\/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 Marie talking about her product\" alt=\"Reddit \u2013 Marie talking about her product\" data-aspect-ratio=\"1.3971428571429\" src=\"https:\/\/backlinko.com\/app\/uploads\/2025\/09\/reddit-marie-talking-about-her-product.png\" loading=\"lazy\" \/><\/p><\/figure>\n<p>And answering users\u2019 questions:<\/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 Marie answering users question\" alt=\"Reddit \u2013 Marie answering users question\" data-aspect-ratio=\"0.61285714285714\" src=\"https:\/\/backlinko.com\/app\/uploads\/2025\/09\/reddit-marie-answering-users-question.png\" loading=\"lazy\" \/><\/p><\/figure>\n<p>And partaking in ongoing conversations:<\/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 Marie partaking in ongoing conversation\" alt=\"Reddit \u2013 Marie partaking in ongoing conversation\" data-aspect-ratio=\"1.1314285714286\" src=\"https:\/\/backlinko.com\/app\/uploads\/2025\/09\/reddit-marie-partaking-in-ongoing-conversation.png\" loading=\"lazy\" \/><\/p><\/figure>\n<p>This authentic engagement creates the context AI needs.<\/p>\n<p>So, when I ask ChatGPT what\u2019s the best free online form builder, it mentions (and recommends) Tally.<\/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  Best free online form builder\" alt=\"ChatGPT \u2013 Best free online form builder\" data-aspect-ratio=\"0.92857142857143\" src=\"https:\/\/backlinko.com\/app\/uploads\/2025\/09\/chatgpt-best-free-online-form-builder.png\" loading=\"lazy\" \/><\/p><\/figure>\n<p>Big brands like Zoho take part in Reddit discussions as well. To answer questions, address concerns, and control their brand sentiment.<\/p>\n<p>Like here:<\/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 Zoho take part in discussions\" alt=\"Reddit \u2013 Zoho take part in discussions\" data-aspect-ratio=\"1.32\" src=\"https:\/\/backlinko.com\/app\/uploads\/2025\/09\/reddit-zoho-take-part-in-discussions.png\" loading=\"lazy\" \/><\/p><\/figure>\n<p>Zoho ranks among the top brands by share of voice in ChatGPT and Google AI Mode responses. Just behind Google.<\/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=\"Top Brands by Share of voice in ChatGPT &amp; Google AI Mode \u2013 Responses\" alt=\"Top Brands by Share of voice in ChatGPT &amp; Google AI Mode \u2013 Responses\" data-aspect-ratio=\"0.56857142857143\" src=\"https:\/\/backlinko.com\/app\/uploads\/2025\/09\/top-brands-by-share-of-voice-in-chatgpt-and-google-ai-mode-responses.png\" loading=\"lazy\" \/><\/p><\/figure>\n<p>The community platforms like Reddit, Overflow, Quora, and even LinkedIn matter a lot in AI visibility:<\/p>\n<p>Your community and customer success teams should be active on these platforms.<\/p>\n<p>But presence alone isn\u2019t enough.<\/p>\n<p>Your strategy needs authenticity.<\/p>\n<p>How?<\/p>\n<ul>\n<li>Answer questions even when you\u2019re not the solution<\/li>\n<li>Address common misconceptions about your product (don\u2019t let misinformation take over threads)<\/li>\n<li>Share your actual product roadmap, including what you won\u2019t build<\/li>\n<li>Give detailed, honest responses to user complaints, even if it means acknowledging past mistakes<\/li>\n<li>Encourage your product, support, or founder teams to answer technical or niche questions directly<\/li>\n<\/ul>\n<p>AI systems can detect promotional language. They prioritize helpful responses over sales pitches.<\/p>\n<p>The brands winning community presence treat forums like customer support, not marketing channels.<\/p>\n<aside class=\"sc-semrush-cta semrush-form\">\n<header>\n<div>\n<p class=\"h3\">Don\u2019t Let Competitors Own the AI Conversation<\/p>\n<p>Enter your domain to see the signals AI platforms use today. Then apply the Seen &amp; Trusted Framework to start winning visibility.<\/p>\n<\/div>\n<\/header>\n<p>        <button class=\"btn btn-orange\" type=\"submit\">Check Visibility<\/button><\/p>\n<footer>\n<figure>\n            <img decoding=\"async\" src=\"https:\/\/backlinko.com\/app\/themes\/backlinko\/dist\/images\/semrush-logo_50c66e41.svg\" alt=\"Semrush Logo\" loading=\"lazy\" title=\"| Craig Hordlow\"><br \/>\n          <\/figure>\n<figure>\n            <img decoding=\"async\" src=\"https:\/\/backlinko.com\/app\/themes\/backlinko\/dist\/images\/backlinko-logo_fcd71cff.svg\" alt=\"Backlinko Logo\" loading=\"lazy\" title=\"| Craig Hordlow\"><br \/>\n          <\/figure>\n<\/footer>\n<\/aside>\n<h3><span class=\"ez-toc-section\" id=\"Step_3_Engineer_UGC_and_Social_Proof\"><\/span>Step 3. Engineer UGC and Social Proof<span class=\"ez-toc-section-end\"><\/span><\/h3>\n<p>User-generated content and social proof create a feedback loop that AI systems amplify.<\/p>\n<ul>\n<li>When customers share their wins on LinkedIn<\/li>\n<li>When users post before-and-after case studies<\/li>\n<li>When teams document their workflows publicly<\/li>\n<\/ul>\n<p>\u2026all of this becomes training data.<\/p>\n<p>Brands with strong community engagement and visible social proof see higher mention rates across AI platforms.<\/p>\n<p>Patagonia is a fitting example here.<\/p>\n<p>When I ask ChatGPT about sustainable outdoor brands, Patagonia dominates the response.<\/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  Sustainable outdoor brands\" alt=\"ChatGPT \u2013 Sustainable outdoor brands\" data-aspect-ratio=\"0.71285714285714\" src=\"https:\/\/backlinko.com\/app\/uploads\/2025\/09\/chatgpt-sustainable-outdoor-brands.png\" loading=\"lazy\" \/><\/p><\/figure>\n<p>In fact, Patagonia holds the highest share of voice in AI responses for the Fashion and Apparel vertical.<\/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=\"Fashion &amp; Apparel \u2013 Share of voice in AI responses\" alt=\"Fashion &amp; Apparel \u2013 Share of voice in AI responses\" data-aspect-ratio=\"0.73428571428571\" src=\"https:\/\/backlinko.com\/app\/uploads\/2025\/09\/fashion-and-apparel-share-of-voice-in-ai-responses.png\" loading=\"lazy\" \/><\/p><\/figure>\n<p>They consistently appear in discussions around \u201cethical fashion\u201d and \u201csustainable brands.\u201d<\/p>\n<p>Not because they advertise, but because customers evangelize. And that advocacy is visible everywhere.<\/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 Patagonia in discussions\" alt=\"Reddit \u2013 Patagonia in discussions\" data-aspect-ratio=\"1.29\" src=\"https:\/\/backlinko.com\/app\/uploads\/2025\/09\/reddit-patagonia-in-discussions.png\" loading=\"lazy\" \/><\/p><\/figure>\n<p>Customers regularly mention their positive experience with Patagonia\u2019s exchange policy.<\/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 Patagonia\u2019s exchange policy\" alt=\"Reddit \u2013 Patagonia's exchange policy\" data-aspect-ratio=\"0.64571428571429\" src=\"https:\/\/backlinko.com\/app\/uploads\/2025\/09\/reddit-patagonias-exchange-policy.png\" loading=\"lazy\" \/><\/p><\/figure>\n<p>There are countless positive articles written on third-party platforms about their products.<\/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=\"FashionBeans \u2013 Is Patagonia a good brand\" alt=\"FashionBeans \u2013 Is Patagonia a good brand\" data-aspect-ratio=\"1.2042857142857\" src=\"https:\/\/backlinko.com\/app\/uploads\/2025\/09\/fashionbeans-is-patagonia-a-good-brand.png\" loading=\"lazy\" \/><\/p><\/figure>\n<p>And on social platforms like Instagram.<\/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=\"Instagram \u2013 About Patagonia\" alt=\"Instagram \u2013 About Patagonia\" data-aspect-ratio=\"0.83714285714286\" src=\"https:\/\/backlinko.com\/app\/uploads\/2025\/09\/instagram-about-patagonia.png\" loading=\"lazy\" \/><\/p><\/figure>\n<p>These real-world endorsements are the kind of social proof AI recognizes and amplifies.<\/p>\n<p>No wonder Patagonia has a highly favorable sentiment score (according to the \u201cPerception\u201d report of the <a title=\"The Semrush AI Toolkit: Turn AI Mentions Into Business Wins\" href=\"https:\/\/www.semrush.com\/ai-seo\/brand-performance\/\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noopener\">AI SEO Toolkit<\/a>).<\/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=\"AI SEO Toolkit \u2013 Patagonia \u2013 Overall Sentiment\" alt=\"AI SEO Toolkit \u2013 Patagonia \u2013 Overall Sentiment\" data-aspect-ratio=\"0.725\" src=\"https:\/\/backlinko.com\/app\/uploads\/2025\/09\/ai-seo-toolkit-patagonia-overall-sentiment.png\" loading=\"lazy\" \/><\/p><\/figure>\n<p>So, how do you get people creating content (and proof) that AI pays attention to?<\/p>\n<ul>\n<li>Encourage customers to leave ratings on trusted third-party sites<\/li>\n<li>Partner with micro-influencers to share authentic product stories, tips, and reviews in their own voice<\/li>\n<li>Invite users to post before-and-after results or creative use cases<\/li>\n<li>Design features or experiences users want to show off (like Spotify Wrapped)<\/li>\n<li>Reward customers who share feedback or use cases publicly (early access, shoutouts, or swag)<\/li>\n<li>Reply to every public mention or tag because AI recognizes visible engagement<\/li>\n<\/ul>\n<p>The mistake most brands make?<\/p>\n<p>Asking for just testimonials instead of conversations.<\/p>\n<p>Don\u2019t ask customers to \u201cshare their success story.\u201d Ask them to help others solve the same problem they faced.<\/p>\n<p>The resulting content is authentic, detailed, and exactly what AI systems look for.<\/p>\n<h3><span class=\"ez-toc-section\" id=\"Step_4_Secure_%E2%80%9CBest_of%E2%80%9D_List_Inclusions\"><\/span>Step 4. Secure \u201cBest of\u201d List Inclusions<span class=\"ez-toc-section-end\"><\/span><\/h3>\n<p>Comparison articles and \u2018best of\u2019 lists are key sources for AI citations.<\/p>\n<p>When TechRadar publishes an article on top \u201cProject Management Tools for Remote Teams,\u201d that article becomes source material for hundreds of AI responses.<\/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 TechRadar \u2013 Citation\" alt=\"ChatGPT \u2013 TechRadar \u2013 Citation\" data-aspect-ratio=\"0.84\" src=\"https:\/\/backlinko.com\/app\/uploads\/2025\/09\/chatgpt-techradar-citation.png\" loading=\"lazy\" \/><\/p><\/figure>\n<p>When Live Science reviews running watches, those comparisons train AI\u2019s product recommendations.<\/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 Running watches \u2013 Live Science reviews\" alt=\"ChatGPT \u2013 Running watches \u2013 Live Science reviews\" data-aspect-ratio=\"0.83428571428571\" src=\"https:\/\/backlinko.com\/app\/uploads\/2025\/09\/chatgpt-live-science-reviews-running-watches.png\" loading=\"lazy\" \/><\/p><\/figure>\n<p>These third-party validations carry more weight than your own content ever could.<\/p>\n<p>In fact, sites that publish \u201cbest of\u201d listicles consistently appear as top sources for AI platforms \u2014 including Forbes, Business Insider, NerdWallet, and Tech Radar.<\/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 Enterprise \u2013 Overall\" alt=\"Semrush Enterprise \u2013 Overall\" data-aspect-ratio=\"1.5885714285714\" src=\"https:\/\/backlinko.com\/app\/uploads\/2025\/09\/semrush-enterprise-overall.png\" loading=\"lazy\" \/><\/p><\/figure>\n<p>Garmin is a perfect example.<\/p>\n<p>Their products appear in virtually every \u201cbest GPS watch\u201d article across running, cycling, and outdoor publications.<\/p>\n<p>Like in this Runner\u2019s World article:<\/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=\"Runner\u2019s World \u2013 Best running watches\" alt=\"Runner's World \u2013 Best running watches\" data-aspect-ratio=\"0.92307692307692\" src=\"https:\/\/backlinko.com\/app\/uploads\/2025\/09\/runnersworld-best-running-watches.png\" loading=\"lazy\" \/><\/p><\/figure>\n<p>Or this piece in The Great Outdoors:<\/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=\"TGO Magazine \u2013 Best GPS watches\" alt=\"TGO Magazine \u2013 Best GPS watches\" data-aspect-ratio=\"0.76571428571429\" src=\"https:\/\/backlinko.com\/app\/uploads\/2025\/09\/thegreatoutdoorsmag-piiece.png\" loading=\"lazy\" \/><\/p><\/figure>\n<p>But what makes their strategy work is consistency across platforms.<\/p>\n<p>Yes, the specs are the same by nature.<\/p>\n<p>But what stands out is how consistently those specs, features, and images appear across independent sites.<\/p>\n<p>That repetition reinforces trust for AI systems, which see the same details confirmed again and again.<\/p>\n<p>So, when I ask ChatGPT, \u201cWhich is the best GPS watch?\u201d it mentions Garmin.<\/p>\n<p>And it doesn\u2019t stop there. It highlights features that other third-party articles emphasize, like battery life, accuracy, solar charging, and water resistance.<\/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  Best GPS Watch\" alt=\"ChatGPT \u2013 Best GPS Watch\" data-aspect-ratio=\"0.84857142857143\" src=\"https:\/\/backlinko.com\/app\/uploads\/2025\/09\/chatgpt-best-gps-watch.png\" loading=\"lazy\" \/><\/p><\/figure>\n<p>This consistency across independent sources is why Garmin holds one of the highest shares of voice in ChatGPT and Google AI Mode responses for the Consumer Electronics vertical.<\/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=\"Consumer Electronics \u2013 Shares of voice \u2013 ChatGPT &amp; Google AI Mode \u2013 Responses\" alt=\"Consumer Electronics \u2013 Shares of voice \u2013 ChatGPT &amp; Google AI Mode \u2013 Responses\" data-aspect-ratio=\"0.80285714285714\" src=\"https:\/\/backlinko.com\/app\/uploads\/2025\/09\/consumer-electronics-shares-of-voice-in-chatgpt-and-google-ai-mode-responses.png\" loading=\"lazy\" \/><\/p><\/figure>\n<p>So, how do you land in these \u201cbest of\u201d lists?<\/p>\n<p>It starts with a great product. Without that, no list will save you.<\/p>\n<p>That aside, you need to make journalists\u2019 jobs easier. Most writers work under tight deadlines and will choose brands that provide ready-to-use assets over those that make them hunt.<\/p>\n<p>So build a dedicated press kit page with specs, pricing, high-res images, and other assets.<\/p>\n<p>Like Garmin does here:<\/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=\"Garmin \u2013 Press kit\" alt=\"Garmin \u2013 Press kit\" data-aspect-ratio=\"1.2842857142857\" src=\"https:\/\/backlinko.com\/app\/uploads\/2025\/09\/garmin-press-kit.png\" loading=\"lazy\" \/><\/p><\/figure>\n<p>Next, <strong>reach out to journalists<\/strong> and niche publications. Don\u2019t wait for them to find you.<\/p>\n<p>Timing matters a lot as well.<\/p>\n<p>Most \u201cbest of\u201d lists update annually. So, pitch your updates a few months before refreshes.<\/p>\n<p>Also, don\u2019t just target obvious lists. Focus on <strong>category expansion<\/strong>.<\/p>\n<p>For instance, Garmin doesn\u2019t just appear in \u201cbest GPS watch\u201d roundups. They also feature in broader outdoor and fitness lists that cover running, cycling, and multisport gear.<\/p>\n<p>That reach multiplies the mentions AI systems can cite.<\/p>\n<p>The bottom line: AI visibility favors the brands that keep showing up in independent comparisons.<\/p>\n<p>Secure those \u201cbest of\u201d inclusions, and you increase your chances of being mentioned in AI answers.<\/p>\n<aside class=\"sc-semrush-cta semrush-form\">\n<header>\n<div>\n<p class=\"h3\">From SEO to AI Search Strategy<\/p>\n<p>Audit your site for the mentions, citations, and trust signals that AI platforms look for \u2014 then turn insights into action.<\/p>\n<\/div>\n<\/header>\n<p>        <button class=\"btn btn-orange\" type=\"submit\">Check Visibility<\/button><\/p>\n<footer>\n<figure>\n            <img decoding=\"async\" src=\"https:\/\/backlinko.com\/app\/themes\/backlinko\/dist\/images\/semrush-logo_50c66e41.svg\" alt=\"Semrush Logo\" loading=\"lazy\" title=\"| Craig Hordlow\"><br \/>\n          <\/figure>\n<figure>\n            <img decoding=\"async\" src=\"https:\/\/backlinko.com\/app\/themes\/backlinko\/dist\/images\/backlinko-logo_fcd71cff.svg\" alt=\"Backlinko Logo\" loading=\"lazy\" title=\"| Craig Hordlow\"><br \/>\n          <\/figure>\n<\/footer>\n<\/aside>\n<h2><span class=\"ez-toc-section\" id=\"Playbook_2_%E2%80%93_How_to_Be_Trusted_The_Authority_Game\"><\/span>Playbook 2 \u2013 How to Be Trusted (The Authority Game)<span class=\"ez-toc-section-end\"><\/span><\/h2>\n<p>Getting mentioned is half the battle. Getting cited is the other half.<\/p>\n<p>When AI systems cite your content, they\u2019re not just naming you. They\u2019re using you as evidence to support their answers.<\/p>\n<p>Look at any ChatGPT or Google AI Mode response.<\/p>\n<p>At the bottom or side, you\u2019ll see a list of sources. These citations are what AI considers trustworthy enough to reference.<\/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 AI Mode \u2013 Which is the best SEO tool\" alt=\"Google AI Mode \u2013 Which is the best SEO tool\" data-aspect-ratio=\"0.83142857142857\" src=\"https:\/\/backlinko.com\/app\/uploads\/2025\/09\/google-ai-mode-which-is-the-best-seo-tool.png\" loading=\"lazy\" \/><\/p><\/figure>\n<p>According to Semrush\u2019s AI Visibility Index, certain sources dominate AI citations across industries. Like Wikipedia, Reddit, Forbes, TechRadar, Bankrate, and Tom\u2019s Guide.<\/p>\n<p>They have achieved, what I call, the \u201cCitation Core\u201d status.<\/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><strong>Citation core (n.):<\/strong> A small group of sites and brands that every major AI platform trusts, cites, and uses as default sources.<\/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><em>Why do these platforms get cited so often?<\/em><\/p>\n<p>AI systems trust sources with verified information, structured data, and established credibility. They need confidence in what they\u2019re citing.<\/p>\n<p>This is the authority game.<\/p>\n<p>You\u2019ve earned mentions through the sentiment battle. Now you need to build the trust that also earns you citations.<\/p>\n<p>This is how you maximize your AI visibility.<\/p>\n<p>Here are five ways to build that authority.<\/p>\n<h3><span class=\"ez-toc-section\" id=\"Step_1_Optimize_Your_Official_Site_for_AI\"><\/span>Step 1. Optimize Your Official Site for AI<span class=\"ez-toc-section-end\"><\/span><\/h3>\n<p>AI platforms can only cite what they can crawl, parse, and understand.<\/p>\n<p>If your details aren\u2019t exposed in clean, readable code, you\u2019re invisible. No matter how good your content is.<\/p>\n<p>Use semantic HTML to structure your content.<\/p>\n<p>That means marking up pricing tables, product specs, and feature lists with tags like &lt;table&gt;, &lt;ul&gt;, and &lt;h2&gt;.<\/p>\n<p>Don\u2019t tuck information inside endless &lt;div&gt;s or custom layouts that hide meaning.<\/p>\n<figure class=\"backlinko-image__visual-chart backlinko-image\">\n<div class=\"backlinko-img-placeholder\"><\/div>\n<p><img decoding=\"async\" title=\"Non-sematic and sematic HTML\" alt=\"Non-sematic and sematic HTML\" data-aspect-ratio=\"0.72571428571429\" src=\"https:\/\/backlinko.com\/app\/uploads\/2025\/09\/non-sematic-and-sematic-html.png\" loading=\"lazy\" \/><\/p><\/figure>\n<p>Also, avoid relying on JavaScript to render your main content.<\/p>\n<p>AI crawlers can\u2019t read JavaScript.<\/p>\n<p>If your pricing or docs load only after scripts fire or buttons click, those details will be skipped.<\/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=\"Nothing appears with JavaScript disabled\" alt=\"Nothing appears with JavaScript disabled\" data-aspect-ratio=\"0.77285714285714\" src=\"https:\/\/backlinko.com\/app\/uploads\/2025\/08\/nothing-appears-with-javascript-disabled.png\" loading=\"lazy\" \/><\/p><\/figure>\n<p>Almost every top-cited site in AI answers passes the Core Web Vitals assessment, which signals that the page loads fast, stays stable, and presents content in a clean structure.<\/p>\n<p>Like Bankrate \u2014 the most cited source in Google AI Mode for the Finance vertical:<\/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=\"PageSpeed Insights \u2013 Bankrate \u2013 Mobile\" alt=\"PageSpeed Insights \u2013 Bankrate \u2013 Mobile\" data-aspect-ratio=\"0.99142857142857\" src=\"https:\/\/backlinko.com\/app\/uploads\/2025\/09\/pagespeed-insights-bankrate-mobile.png\" loading=\"lazy\" \/><\/p><\/figure>\n<p>Or InStyle \u2014 the 8th most cited source on ChatGPT in the Fashion &amp; Apparel vertical.<\/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=\"PageSpeed Insights \u2013 InStyle \u2013 Mobile\" alt=\"PageSpeed Insights \u2013 InStyle \u2013 Mobile\" data-aspect-ratio=\"0.99857142857143\" src=\"https:\/\/backlinko.com\/app\/uploads\/2025\/09\/pagespeed-insights-instyle-mobile.png\" loading=\"lazy\" \/><\/p><\/figure>\n<p>These sites consistently surface in AI responses because their pages are easy to crawl, fast to load, and simple to extract structured information from.<\/p>\n<p>A lot of what you\u2019ll do to optimize your site for AI is SEO 101.<\/p>\n<ul>\n<li>Structure all key information in native HTML elements (no custom wrappers)<\/li>\n<li>Keep important content visible on initial load (no tabs, accordions, or lazy-loaded sections)<\/li>\n<li>Use schema where it reinforces facts: pricing, product, FAQ, organization<\/li>\n<li>Run regular audits with JavaScript disabled to see what AI sees<\/li>\n<li>Minimize layout shifts and script dependencies that delay full render<\/li>\n<\/ul>\n<p>For page-by-page analysis, you can use Google\u2019s <a title=\"PageSpeed Insights\" href=\"https:\/\/pagespeed.web.dev\/\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noopener\">PageSpeed Insights<\/a>.<\/p>\n<p>To check your entire site\u2019s health and performance, use Semrush\u2019s <a title=\"SEO Checker &amp; Site Audit: Analyze Your Website\u2019s SEO for Free\" href=\"https:\/\/www.semrush.com\/siteaudit\/\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noopener\">Site Audit<\/a> tool.<\/p>\n<p>Get a detailed report showing technical issues on your website and how you can fix them.<\/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=\"Site Audit \u2013  Backlinko \u2013 Overview\" alt=\"Site Audit \u2013 Backlinko \u2013 Overview\" data-aspect-ratio=\"0.72571428571429\" src=\"https:\/\/backlinko.com\/app\/uploads\/2025\/07\/site-audit-backlinko-overview.png\" loading=\"lazy\" \/><\/p><\/figure>\n<p>At the end, you want a fast, stable, and easy-to-parse website.<\/p>\n<p>That\u2019s what earns AI citations.<\/p>\n<h3><span class=\"ez-toc-section\" id=\"Step_2_Maintain_Wikipedia_Knowledge_Graph_Accuracy\"><\/span>Step 2. Maintain Wikipedia + Knowledge Graph Accuracy<span class=\"ez-toc-section-end\"><\/span><\/h3>\n<p>AI systems rely on public data sources to build their understanding of your brand.<\/p>\n<p>If that information is wrong, every answer AI generates about you will be too.<\/p>\n<p>Wikipedia is one of the most cited sources on ChatGPT for all industries covered in Semrush\u2019s AI Visibility Index.<\/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 Enterprise \u2013 Overall \u2013 ChatGPT &amp; Wikipedia\" alt=\"Semrush Enterprise \u2013 Overall \u2013 ChatGPT &amp; Wikipedia\" data-aspect-ratio=\"0.79428571428571\" src=\"https:\/\/backlinko.com\/app\/uploads\/2025\/09\/semrush-enterprise-overall-chatgpt-and-wikipedia.png\" loading=\"lazy\" \/><\/p><\/figure>\n<p>Interestingly, Google AI Mode leans heavily on its Knowledge Graph to validate facts about companies and products.<\/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 Enterprise \u2013 Overall \u2013 Google AI Mode\" alt=\"Semrush Enterprise \u2013 Overall \u2013 Google AI Mode\" data-aspect-ratio=\"0.81428571428571\" src=\"https:\/\/backlinko.com\/app\/uploads\/2025\/09\/semrush-enterprise-overall-google-ai-mode.png\" loading=\"lazy\" \/><\/p><\/figure>\n<p>When your Wikipedia page contains outdated info \u2014 or your Knowledge Graph shows old details \u2014 those inaccuracies get baked into AI responses.<\/p>\n<p>That hurts trust, sentiment, and your chance of being cited in the long-term.<\/p>\n<p>So your job is twofold:<\/p>\n<ol>\n<li>Make sure your brand exists in these systems<\/li>\n<li>Keep the data clean and current<\/li>\n<\/ol>\n<p>Start with your Wikipedia page.<\/p>\n<p>If you have one, audit it quarterly.<\/p>\n<p>Fix factual errors, like outdated product names, revenue ranges, or leadership bios.<\/p>\n<p>Support every edit with a credible third-party source: news coverage, analyst reports, or industry publications.<\/p>\n<p>Wikipedia doesn\u2019t allow brands to directly promote themselves. And promotional edits get removed.<\/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=\"Wikipedia \u2013 Yes, it is promotion\" alt=\"Wikipedia \u2013 Yes, it is promotion\" data-aspect-ratio=\"0.86615384615385\" src=\"https:\/\/backlinko.com\/app\/uploads\/2025\/09\/wikipedia-yes-it-is-promotion.png\" loading=\"lazy\" \/><\/p><\/figure>\n<p>But updates to fix factual errors usually stick. As long as you provide solid citations.<\/p>\n<p>You can use the \u201cTalk\u201d page of your Wikipedia entry to propose corrections.<\/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=\"Wikipedia \u2013 Talk page\" alt=\"Wikipedia \u2013 Talk page\" data-aspect-ratio=\"0.72428571428571\" src=\"https:\/\/backlinko.com\/app\/uploads\/2025\/09\/wikipedia-talk-page.png\" loading=\"lazy\" \/><\/p><\/figure>\n<p>If you don\u2019t have a Wikipedia page, you\u2019ll need to meet notability guidelines.<\/p>\n<p>That typically means coverage in multiple independent, well-known publications.<\/p>\n<p>Once that\u2019s in place, a neutral editor (not on your payroll) can create the page.<\/p>\n<p>Next, fix your Knowledge Graph.<\/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 Semrush \u2013 Knowledge graph\" alt=\"Google SERP \u2013 Semrush \u2013 Knowledge graph\" data-aspect-ratio=\"0.92285714285714\" src=\"https:\/\/backlinko.com\/app\/uploads\/2025\/09\/google-serp-semrush-knowledge-graph.png\" loading=\"lazy\" \/><\/p><\/figure>\n<p>Google pulls its brand facts for its knowledge graph from multiple sources. Like Wikidata, Wikipedia, Crunchbase, social profiles, and your own schema markup.<\/p>\n<p>Start by \u201cclaiming\u201d your Knowledge Panel.<\/p>\n<p>This means a knowledge panel already exists for your company when you search its name. You just have to claim it by verifying your identity.<\/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=\"Claim this knowledge panel\" alt=\"Claim this knowledge panel\" data-aspect-ratio=\"1.1633333333333\" src=\"https:\/\/backlinko.com\/app\/uploads\/2025\/09\/claim-this-knowledge-panel.png\" loading=\"lazy\" \/><\/p><\/figure>\n<p>If you don\u2019t see one, you\u2019ll need to feed Google more structured signals.<\/p>\n<p>Start by adding or improving your Organization schema on your homepage.<\/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=\"Schema \u2013 Organization\" alt=\"Schema \u2013 Organization\" data-aspect-ratio=\"1.26\" src=\"https:\/\/backlinko.com\/app\/uploads\/2024\/03\/schema-organization.png\" loading=\"lazy\" \/><\/p><\/figure>\n<p>Then, make sure your company has a proper Wikidata entry. Google may use this to build its Knowledge Graph.<\/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> Adding your company to Wikidata is much easier than getting a full Wikipedia entry. But you still need to follow the guidelines. Stick to neutral language, avoid any promotional tone, and cite credible third-party sources.<\/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=\"Wikidata \u2013 Zoho Corporation\" alt=\"Wikidata \u2013 Zoho Corporation\" data-aspect-ratio=\"0.81\" src=\"https:\/\/backlinko.com\/app\/uploads\/2025\/09\/wikidata-zoho-corporation.png\" loading=\"lazy\" \/><\/p><\/figure>\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>A strong Wikipedia page and Google knowledge panel shape how AI understands your brand.<\/p>\n<p>Get them right, and you build a foundation of factual authority that AI systems can trust.<\/p>\n<h3><span class=\"ez-toc-section\" id=\"Step_3_Publish_Transparent_Pricing\"><\/span>Step 3. Publish Transparent Pricing<span class=\"ez-toc-section-end\"><\/span><\/h3>\n<p>Hidden pricing creates negative sentiment that AI systems pick up and amplify.<\/p>\n<p>When users can\u2019t find your pricing, they turn to Reddit and LinkedIn. And the speculation isn\u2019t always favorable.<\/p>\n<p>For instance, Workaday doesn\u2019t show its pricing.<\/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=\"Workday doesn\u2019t show it\u2019s pricing\" alt=\"Workday doesn't show it's pricing\" data-aspect-ratio=\"0.72428571428571\" src=\"https:\/\/backlinko.com\/app\/uploads\/2025\/09\/workaday-doesnt-show-its-pricing.png\" loading=\"lazy\" \/><\/p><\/figure>\n<p>And the Reddit comments aren\u2019t helpful to its potential customers.<\/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 Workday comments aren\u2019t helpful\" alt=\"Reddit \u2013 Workday comments aren't helpful\" data-aspect-ratio=\"0.41571428571429\" src=\"https:\/\/backlinko.com\/app\/uploads\/2025\/09\/reddit-workaday-comments-arent-helpful.png\" loading=\"lazy\" \/><\/p><\/figure>\n<p>According to Semrush\u2019s AI Visibility Index, when enterprise software hides pricing behind \u201cContact Sales,\u201d AI uses speculative data points from Reddit and LinkedIn.<\/p>\n<p>And it often links that brand with <strong>negative price sentiment<\/strong>.<\/p>\n<p>Because AI systems are biased toward answering, even if it means citing speculation.<\/p>\n<p>They\u2019d rather quote a complaint from third-party sites about \u201cprobably expensive\u201d than admit they don\u2019t know.<\/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  Quote a complaint\" alt=\"ChatGPT \u2013 Quote a complaint\" data-aspect-ratio=\"0.59\" src=\"https:\/\/backlinko.com\/app\/uploads\/2025\/09\/chatgpt-quote-a-complaint.png\" loading=\"lazy\" \/><\/p><\/figure>\n<p>Without clear pricing, you\u2019re also excluded from value-comparison queries like \u201cbest budget option\u201d or \u201cmost cost-effective for enterprises.\u201d<\/p>\n<p>Publishing transparent pricing creates reliable data that AI trusts over speculation.<\/p>\n<p>Now I understand this isn\u2019t always possible for every brand. Whether to show pricing depends on various other decisions and strategies.<\/p>\n<p>But if you want to build trust for higher AI visibility and positive sentiment, transparent pricing is important.<\/p>\n<p>Which means:<\/p>\n<ul>\n<li>Include tier breakdowns with feature comparisons<\/li>\n<li>Spell out annual vs. monthly options<\/li>\n<li>List any limitations or user caps<\/li>\n<li>Update your pricing on G2, Capterra, and other review sites<\/li>\n<\/ul>\n<p>When reliable sources like your pricing page and G2 have clear information, AI stops turning to speculation.<\/p>\n<p>That transparency becomes part of your brand identity and authority.<\/p>\n<h3><span class=\"ez-toc-section\" id=\"Step_4_Expand_Documentation_FAQs\"><\/span>Step 4. Expand Documentation &amp; FAQs<span class=\"ez-toc-section-end\"><\/span><\/h3>\n<p>Your support docs and help center often get cited more than your homepage.<\/p>\n<p>Because AI systems look for detailed, problem-solving content. Not marketing copy.<\/p>\n<p>Apple holds one of the highest shares of voice in ChatGPT and Google AI Mode responses for the Consumer Electronics vertical.<\/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=\"Consumer Electronics \u2013 Shares of voice \u2013 Apple\" alt=\"Consumer Electronics \u2013 Shares of voice \u2013 Apple\" data-aspect-ratio=\"0.80285714285714\" src=\"https:\/\/backlinko.com\/app\/uploads\/2025\/09\/consumer-electronics-shares-of-voice-apple.png\" loading=\"lazy\" \/><\/p><\/figure>\n<p>Its support documentation appears consistently in AI citations across tech queries.<\/p>\n<p>When I ask ChatGPT how to fix an iPhone issue, it cites support.apple.com.<\/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 AI Mode \u2013 Apple support\" alt=\"Google AI Mode \u2013 Apple support\" data-aspect-ratio=\"0.88857142857143\" src=\"https:\/\/backlinko.com\/app\/uploads\/2025\/09\/google-ai-mode-apple-support.png\" loading=\"lazy\" \/><\/p><\/figure>\n<p>Product documentation dominates citations in technical verticals.<\/p>\n<p><em>Why?<\/em><\/p>\n<p>Because it answers specific questions with step-by-step clarity.<\/p>\n<p>Your product documentation is a citation goldmine if you structure it right.<\/p>\n<p>Start by creating dedicated pages for common problems. \u201cHow to integrate [Product] with [Product]\u201d beats a generic integrations page.<\/p>\n<p>For example, Dialpad has dedicated pages for each app it integrates with.<\/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=\"Dialpad \u2013 All Aps\" alt=\"Dialpad \u2013 All Aps\" data-aspect-ratio=\"1.1928571428571\" src=\"https:\/\/backlinko.com\/app\/uploads\/2025\/09\/dialpad-all-aps.png\" loading=\"lazy\" \/><\/p><\/figure>\n<p>And each page clearly explains how to connect both apps.<\/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=\"Dialpad \u2013 App Marketplace\" alt=\"Dialpad \u2013 App Marketplace\" data-aspect-ratio=\"0.82769230769231\" src=\"https:\/\/backlinko.com\/app\/uploads\/2025\/09\/dialpad-app-marketplace.png\" loading=\"lazy\" \/><\/p><\/figure>\n<p>Next, write troubleshooting guides that address real user issues.<\/p>\n<p>(You can learn about these issues from your sales teams, account managers, and social media conversations.)<\/p>\n<p>Also, build a comprehensive FAQ library that actually answers questions. Not marketing-friendly softballs, but the hard questions users really ask.<\/p>\n<p>Make sure every page is crawlable:<\/p>\n<ul>\n<li>Use static HTML for all documentation<\/li>\n<li>Create XML sitemaps specifically for docs<\/li>\n<li>Implement breadcrumb navigation<\/li>\n<li>Add schema markup for HowTo and FAQ content<\/li>\n<\/ul>\n<p>The goal is to become the default source when AI needs to explain how your product works.<\/p>\n<p>Not through SEO tricks, but by publishing the most helpful, detailed, accessible documentation in your space.<\/p>\n<h3><span class=\"ez-toc-section\" id=\"Step_5_Create_Original_Research_That_AI_Wants_to_Cite\"><\/span>Step 5. Create Original Research That AI Wants to Cite<span class=\"ez-toc-section-end\"><\/span><\/h3>\n<p>Original research gives AI systems something they can\u2019t find anywhere else. Your data becomes the evidence they need.<\/p>\n<p>Take SentinelOne as an example. It\u2019s a well-known brand in cybersecurity.<\/p>\n<p>They regularly publish threat reports, original data, and technical insights.<\/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=\"SentinelOne \u2013 Original research\" alt=\"SentinelOne \u2013 Original research\" data-aspect-ratio=\"0.62285714285714\" src=\"https:\/\/backlinko.com\/app\/uploads\/2025\/09\/sentinel-one-original-research.png\" loading=\"lazy\" \/><\/p><\/figure>\n<p>This is one of the reasons they often get cited as a source in AI responses.<\/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  SentinelOne as source\" alt=\"ChatGPT \u2013 SentinelOne as source\" data-aspect-ratio=\"0.6\" src=\"https:\/\/backlinko.com\/app\/uploads\/2025\/09\/chatgpt-sentinel-one-as-source.png\" loading=\"lazy\" \/><\/p><\/figure>\n<p>In the intro, I said very few brands are both mentioned and cited by AI. Remember?<\/p>\n<p>SentinelOne is one of those brands that has built dual authority.<\/p>\n<p>According to Semrush\u2019s AI Visibility Index, it\u2019s the 15th most cited and 19th most mentioned brand in the Digital Technology vertical.<\/p>\n<p>Because it publishes original insights that aren\u2019t available anywhere.<\/p>\n<p>And AI systems want: verified data, industry insights, and quotable statistics.<\/p>\n<p>But not all research gets cited equally.<\/p>\n<ul>\n<li>Annual surveys with significant sample sizes (think: 500+) carry weight. But \u201cState of [Industry]\u201d reports based on 50 responses might not.<\/li>\n<li>Benchmark studies comparing real performance data become go-to references. But thinly-veiled sales pitches disguised as research might get ignored.<\/li>\n<\/ul>\n<p>You can use your proprietary data to create original research reports.<\/p>\n<p>Or team up with market research companies like Centiment that can help you collect data through surveys.<\/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=\"Centiment \u2013 Survey Lifecycle\" alt=\"Centiment \u2013 Survey Lifecycle\" data-aspect-ratio=\"0.61\" src=\"https:\/\/backlinko.com\/app\/uploads\/2025\/09\/centiment-survey-lifecycle.png\" loading=\"lazy\" \/><\/p><\/figure>\n<p>When creating these reports:<\/p>\n<ul>\n<li>Lead with key findings in bullet points<\/li>\n<li>Include methodology details for credibility<\/li>\n<li>Provide downloadable data sets when possible<\/li>\n<li>Add structured data markup for datasets<\/li>\n<\/ul>\n<p>Also, promote findings through press releases and industry publications.<\/p>\n<p>When Forbes, TechCrunch, and other leading publications cover your research, AI systems are more likely to notice.<\/p>\n<p>Like this SentinelOne report covered by Forbes:<\/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=\"Forbes \u2013 SentinelOne \u2013 Report\" alt=\"Forbes \u2013 SentinelOne \u2013 Report\" data-aspect-ratio=\"0.55\" src=\"https:\/\/backlinko.com\/app\/uploads\/2025\/09\/forbes-sentinel-one-report.png\" loading=\"lazy\" \/><\/p><\/figure>\n<p>The compound effect here is powerful.<\/p>\n<p>Your research gets cited by news outlets \u2192 which gets cited by AI \u2192 which drives more coverage \u2192 which builds more authority.<\/p>\n<p>That\u2019s how you go from being mentioned to being the source everyone (including AI) trusts.<\/p>\n<h2><span class=\"ez-toc-section\" id=\"Pulling_It_All_Together_%E2%80%93_Running_Both_Playbooks\"><\/span>Pulling It All Together \u2013 Running Both Playbooks<span class=\"ez-toc-section-end\"><\/span><\/h2>\n<p>You\u2019ve seen the framework. Now it\u2019s time to execute.<\/p>\n<h3><span class=\"ez-toc-section\" id=\"Step_1_Audit_Your_Current_AI_Visibility\"><\/span>Step 1. Audit Your Current AI Visibility<span class=\"ez-toc-section-end\"><\/span><\/h3>\n<p>Start by understanding your baseline.<\/p>\n<p>Run test queries in ChatGPT and Google AI Mode. Search for your brand, your category, your product, and the problems you solve.<\/p>\n<p>Note where you\u2019re mentioned (in the answer itself) and where you\u2019re cited (in the source list). Screenshot everything.<\/p>\n<p>If you\u2019re using <a title=\"Semrush&#039;s Enterprise AIO\" href=\"https:\/\/www.semrush.com\/lp\/enterprise-aio\/en\/?utm_campaign=llm-tracking-tools&amp;utm_source=backlinko.com&amp;utm_medium=referral&amp;_gl=1*101702t*_gcl_au*MTYxNTM0NDc4LjE3NTY3MDM4NjA.*_ga*MTEyNTk1MzYzOS4xNzQ4NDY4MTE1*_ga_HYWKMHR981*czE3NTcxMTI2NDgkbzE2OCRnMSR0MTc1NzExMjg1MiRqMTgkbDAkaDA.*_ga_BPNLXP3JQG*czE3NTcxMTI2NDgkbzEzMSRnMSR0MTc1NzExMjg1MiRqMTgkbDAkaDM4MTkzMTcyOQ..\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noopener\">Semrush\u2019s Enterprise AIO<\/a>, you can use Competitor Rankings to see how often your brand shows up in AI answers compared to your competitors.<\/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 AIO \u2013 Backlinko \u2013 Brand Changes &amp; Rankings\" alt=\"Semrush AIO \u2013 Backlinko \u2013 Brand Changes &amp; Rankings\" data-aspect-ratio=\"0.77571428571429\" src=\"https:\/\/backlinko.com\/app\/uploads\/2025\/07\/semrush-aio-backlinko-brand-changes-and-rankings.png\" loading=\"lazy\" \/><\/p><\/figure>\n<h3><span class=\"ez-toc-section\" id=\"Step_2_Build_Parallel_Campaigns\"><\/span>Step 2. Build Parallel Campaigns<span class=\"ez-toc-section-end\"><\/span><\/h3>\n<p>Both playbooks need to run simultaneously.<\/p>\n<p>You can\u2019t wait to be \u201cseen\u201d before building trust.<\/p>\n<ul>\n<li><strong>Playbook 1 (Seen):<\/strong> Customer success drives review campaigns. Community managers engage in forums. PR pushes for \u201cbest of\u201d list inclusion.<\/li>\n<li><strong>Playbook 2 (Trusted):<\/strong> Product publishes transparent pricing. SEO and engineering improve site structure. Support expands help content. Marketing creates original research.<\/li>\n<\/ul>\n<p>The key is coordination.<\/p>\n<p>Create a shared dashboard to track each team\u2019s contributions to AI visibility.<\/p>\n<h3><span class=\"ez-toc-section\" id=\"Step_3_Monitor_and_Iterate\"><\/span>Step 3. Monitor and Iterate<span class=\"ez-toc-section-end\"><\/span><\/h3>\n<p>AI visibility shifts fast. What worked last month might not work today.<\/p>\n<p>Track your mentions and citations monthly.<\/p>\n<p>Use an LLM tracking tool like Semrush or a manual prompt list to see how you\u2019re showing up (and how often).<\/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=\"5 LLM Visibility Tools to Track Your Brand in AI Search\" href=\"https:\/\/backlinko.com\/llm-tracking-tools\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noopener\">5 LLM Visibility Tools to Track Your Brand in AI Search<\/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<p>Watch for imbalances.<\/p>\n<p>Strong mentions but weak citations? Focus on authority signals from Playbook 2.<\/p>\n<p>Cited often but rarely mentioned? Ramp up your community and sentiment work.<\/p>\n<p>Also: watch your competitors. When someone jumps in AI visibility, reverse-engineer what changed.<\/p>\n<p>New PR coverage? More reviews? A pricing update?<\/p>\n<p>The brands winning AI search aren\u2019t waiting for perfect strategies. They\u2019re testing, learning, and adjusting faster than their competition.<\/p>\n<h2><span class=\"ez-toc-section\" id=\"The_AI_Visibility_Window_is_Open\"><\/span>The AI Visibility Window is Open<span class=\"ez-toc-section-end\"><\/span><\/h2>\n<p>In addition to listing your brand, AI platforms influence what buyers see, trust, and choose.<\/p>\n<p>And right now, AI visibility is anyone\u2019s game. Only a few brands in each industry have cracked the code of being both mentioned and cited.<\/p>\n<p>That means even established giants can be outmaneuvered if you move faster on AI strategy.<\/p>\n<p>So while competitors debate whether AI search matters, you can build the presence that captures tomorrow\u2019s buyers.<\/p>\n<p>The Seen &amp; Trusted Framework gives you the direction.<\/p>\n<p>Run both playbooks. At once.<\/p>\n<p>The post <a href=\"https:\/\/backlinko.com\/ai-search-strategy\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noopener\">AI Search Strategy: The Seen &amp; Trusted Brand Framework<\/a> appeared first on <a href=\"https:\/\/backlinko.com\/\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noopener\">Backlinko<\/a>.<\/p>","protected":false},"excerpt":{"rendered":"<p>AI is already reshaping how buyers discover and choose brands. When someone asks ChatGPT or Google AI Mode about your category, two things happen: Brands are mentioned in the answer Sources are cited as proof Most companies get one or the other. Very few win both. And that\u2019s the problem. According to the latest Semrush Enterprise AI Visibility Index, only a small fraction of companies appear in AI answers as both seen (mentions) and trusted (citations). That gap is the opportunity. We\u2019re proposing the Seen &amp; [&hellip;]<\/p>\n","protected":false},"author":1,"featured_media":13874,"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-13873","post","type-post","status-publish","format-standard","has-post-thumbnail","hentry","category-backlinko"],"featured_image_src":"https:\/\/craighordlow.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2025\/09\/ai-search-visibility-hbW5i7-600x400.png","featured_image_src_square":"https:\/\/craighordlow.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2025\/09\/ai-search-visibility-hbW5i7-600x600.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\/13873","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=13873"}],"version-history":[{"count":0,"href":"https:\/\/craighordlow.com\/index.php\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/posts\/13873\/revisions"}],"wp:featuredmedia":[{"embeddable":true,"href":"https:\/\/craighordlow.com\/index.php\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/media\/13874"}],"wp:attachment":[{"href":"https:\/\/craighordlow.com\/index.php\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/media?parent=13873"}],"wp:term":[{"taxonomy":"category","embeddable":true,"href":"https:\/\/craighordlow.com\/index.php\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/categories?post=13873"},{"taxonomy":"post_tag","embeddable":true,"href":"https:\/\/craighordlow.com\/index.php\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/tags?post=13873"}],"curies":[{"name":"wp","href":"https:\/\/api.w.org\/{rel}","templated":true}]}}