If you remember the early 2000s, you’ll recall when search engine optimization (SEO) evolved from a niche concept to a mainstream marketing tool. Businesses quickly learned that appearing on the first page of search results could make or break their visibility. 

Today, a new chapter is unfolding with the rise of Answer Engine Optimization (AEO), Generative Engine Optimization (GEO), and AI Engine Optimization (AIO)—all stemming from the growing influence of artificial intelligence in how search engines deliver results.

While the overall idea is to get your brand recognized, the risks are far more systemic, the stakes are higher, and the restrictions are less clear. AI isn’t just a futuristic idea; it’s already reshaping how people search, discover, and trust brands. And if a public relations (PR) agency doesn’t understand that, it might be doing more harm than good. 

With decades of experience in integrated PR agency services, PR strategy, and PR and social media agency work, 9‑Figure Media understands this and is positioned to help brands thrive in this brave new era. For many organizations, earning recognition such as a Forbes feature is now seen as a valuable step toward building long-term authority. But why does this matter, and why is it controversial?

What is the GEO Revolution and Why Does It Make Traditional SEO Obsolete?

The “GEO revolution” refers to Generative Engine Optimization, a new way that AI-powered platforms (such as Google’s AI Overviews, ChatGPT, and others) answer user questions by drawing on authoritative sources across the web. 

For brands, this means that establishing entity authority, being recognized by AI as a trusted source, has become essential. 

This shift demands thoughtful PR marketing strategies: your mentions in credible media, structured data on your website, and consistent thought leadership, all of which signal to AI models that your brand “deserves” to be cited.  Earning a Forbes feature or similar high-authority coverage can be a signal to both algorithms and audiences that your brand is a trusted entity.

Why is Earned Media Suddenly Your Most Valuable Asset in AI Search?

As AI-driven search becomes more common, users increasingly receive answers directly in search summaries, reducing the need for traditional website clicks. For brands, this means earned media coverage in reputable publications and expert commentary are vital assets. 

AI models are designed to rely on trusted media sources and entity signals, interpreting these as endorsements of expertise and reliability. Integrating PR and SEO strategies increases your chances of being cited by AI systems, thereby strengthening your brand’s perceived authority.

Brands that adapt early will win. A modern PR and social media agency that understands GEO can guide:

1. Brand visibility in AI – securing strong, high‑quality media coverage so AI systems cite your brand more reliably.
2. Structured data + entity optimization – using schema markup, knowledge graphs, and consistent branding so AI bots “recognize” your brand. 
3. Thought leadership content – producing bylined articles, research, and expert commentary that position your brand as a go-to source.

Securing a Forbes feature can be one way to build trust and authority that resonates with both audiences and AI platforms.

Is Your Current Marketing Strategy Already Failing You?

Here’s where things get provocative: many brands are still clinging to legacy models, pouring money into paid ads and traditional SEO while overlooking the transformative power of earned media and PR. But AI-driven platforms increasingly prioritize credibility over clicks. Some agencies resist the shift because:

• They don’t want to invest in long-term, high-authority PR placements.
• They misunderstand AI search as just another ad channel.
• They fail to track AI-centric KPIs, focusing only on clicks, views, and ad ROI, while missing mentions, entity visibility, and AI recall.

Yet, brands that double down on PR now are establishing strong AI visibility moats. They shape how generative engines understand their brand,  something paid ads alone cannot buy. 

What Makes 9-Figure Media the Right Partner in This Revolution?

In a crowded PR landscape, what sets 9-Figure Media apart is:

• Experience & expertise: The 9Figuremedia team has built and executed integrated PR strategies and PR marketing strategies for growth brands in fast-moving markets, always aiming for high-impact results such as securing a Forbes feature or other major media coverage. for growth brands in fast-moving markets.
• Credibility-first approach: we focus on securing media placements in authoritative outlets rather than low-value links.
• AI‑savvy tactics: we optimize clients’ content and digital presence for GEO / AEO, not just traditional SEO.
• Measurable impact: we track not only media coverage, but mentions in AI-generated answers, entity recognition, and brand signals in large language models (LLMs).

In short, they combine the heart of PR with the new science of AI search.

Best Practices for Building AI Search Authority

• Audit your media footprint: Evaluate how often your brand is mentioned in high-authority publications and whether those mentions are structured for AI recognition.
• Develop thought leadership content: Focus on assets like blogs, research, and bylined articles that are optimized for natural language and demonstrate expertise.
• Prioritize strategic PR coverage: Aim for placements in sources that AI trusts, including high-domain sites and niche trade media. Securing a Forbes feature is a significant milestone in a broader strategy to build both human and algorithmic trust.
• Implement schema markup and structured data: These technical elements help AI systems “understand” your brand and its offerings.
• Track AI-centric metrics: Monitor how frequently your brand is cited in AI overviews, chatbots, or LLM responses in addition to traditional web analytics.

The Role of Thought Leaders in the GEO Revolution

As the landscape shifts, organizations at the forefront of PR agency services and PR strategy can provide valuable guidance. Agencies like 9‑Figure Media, with deep experience in integrated PR and social media, are actively developing and implementing approaches tailored to the demands of GEO, AEO, and AI-driven search. Their work highlights the importance of combining traditional PR values with new digital tactics, securing media placements in authoritative outlets, optimizing for AI-driven recognition, and tracking impact through modern metrics.

Looking Ahead: Preparing for the Future of Search

Adapting to the GEO revolution is more than a tactical change; it represents a shift in how brands build authority and connect with audiences. By embracing these best practices and learning from industry thought leaders, brands can position themselves for long-term success in the age of AI search.