AEO stands for answer engine optimization. It describes work intended to make a business and its content easier to discover, understand, and accurately reference in systems that answer questions. Depending on the context, the term can cover AI-generated search answers, conversational search, and direct-answer features. The practical goal is to provide a useful, credible source when someone asks a question relevant to your business.
It matters because an answer can influence a buyer before a website visit happens. AEO therefore adds attention to brand descriptions, cited pages, and customer questions alongside familiar measures such as search traffic and conversions. It builds on sound SEO and good publishing. For a service business, useful starting points include clear service explanations, transparent process information, evidence of expertise, and answers to the questions prospects ask before booking a call.