Winning AEO with authority: How to build credibility and earn trust in AI search

In the evolving landscape of AI-driven discovery, brand credibility is increasingly shaped by plain-text mentions and the perceptions conveyed by large language models (LLMs) like ChatGPT and Gemini, rather than solely relying on backlinks and rankings. Marketing leaders are encouraged to focus on Authority in AI-Enhanced Optimization (AEO) by building credibility through consistent third-party validation and presence in trusted sources and communities, thus becoming a source of truth for both humans and AI. The process involves several levels, starting from expanding traditional backlink strategies and creating content that demonstrates experience, expertise, authoritativeness, and trustworthiness (E-E-A-T), to showing up in diverse channels like digital PR and community spaces, and growing credibility through original thought leadership and visual storytelling. Ultimately, the goal is to maintain broad recognition, ensuring that the brand is widely cited and trusted as an authoritative source in its industry, achieved through strategic partnerships, robust content creation, and ongoing monitoring of brand mentions and sentiment.