Generative AI Search Engine Optimization Agency Guide 2026
Agencies offering GEO services should: (1) package services into audit, optimization, and monitoring tiers, (2) price based on query volume and AI engine coverage, (3) use tools like SeenOS.ai and GEO-Lens for delivery, (4) set realistic expectations (60-90 days for results), and (5) integrate GEO with existing SEO services. GEO is the fastest-growing service category for digital marketing agencies in 2026. According to Forrester, 67% of agencies now offer GEO services, up from 12% in 2024. The opportunity is significant, but delivery requires different skills and tools than traditional SEO.
Key Takeaways
- • Package GEO into audit, optimization, and monitoring tiers
- • Price based on query volume and AI engine coverage
- • Set realistic timelines: 60-90 days for measurable results
- • Integrate with existing SEO services for efficiency
- • Use specialized tools (SeenOS.ai, GEO-Lens) for delivery
GEO Service Packaging #
Tier 1: GEO Audit
- Current AI visibility assessment
- Competitive analysis
- Content gap identification
- Recommendations report
- One-time delivery
Tier 2: GEO Optimization
- Content optimization
- Schema implementation
- Query targeting
- Monthly reporting
- Ongoing retainer
Tier 3: Full GEO Management
- All Tier 2 services
- Continuous monitoring
- Competitive tracking
- Strategy adjustments
- Dedicated account management
Add-On Services
- AI engine-specific optimization
- Content creation
- Technical GEO (schema, llms.txt)
- Training and workshops
Pricing Models #
| Service | Pricing Model | Typical Range |
|---|---|---|
| GEO Audit | Project-based | $2,000-$10,000 |
| GEO Optimization | Monthly retainer | $3,000-$15,000/mo |
| Full Management | Monthly retainer | $10,000-$50,000/mo |
Delivery Framework #
- 1Discovery: Understand client goals, current state, competitive landscape
- 2Audit: Assess AI visibility using SeenOS.ai, analyze content with GEO-Lens
- 3Strategy: Develop query targets, content priorities, optimization plan
- 4Implementation: Execute content optimization, schema, technical changes
- 5Monitoring: Track progress, adjust strategy, report results
Setting Client Expectations #
- Timeline: 60-90 days for measurable results
- Metrics: Citation rate, share of voice, AI referral traffic
- Variability: AI responses fluctuate; focus on trends, not daily changes
- Integration: GEO complements SEO; not a replacement
Recommended Agency Tools #
- SeenOS.ai: Visibility tracking across all AI engines
- GEO-Lens: Content analysis and optimization scoring
- Profound: Enterprise analytics for large clients
- Traditional SEO tools: Ahrefs, SEMrush for foundational SEO
Limitations #
- No guarantees: Can't guarantee specific AI citations
- Algorithm changes: AI engines update frequently
- Measurement challenges: Some metrics are harder to track than SEO
- Client education: Significant effort required to explain GEO
Frequently Asked Questions #
Should GEO be a separate service or bundled with SEO? #
Both work. Bundling with SEO is efficient since they share fundamentals. Separate packaging highlights GEO as a distinct value-add. Many agencies offer both options.
What skills do team members need for GEO? #
SEO fundamentals, content strategy, and familiarity with AI tools. Technical skills for schema and structured data help. Most SEO professionals can learn GEO quickly.
Conclusion #
GEO represents a significant growth opportunity for agencies. Success requires proper service packaging, realistic pricing, specialized tools, and client education. Start with audit services to build expertise, then expand to optimization and full management as capabilities grow.
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Product Manager at Seenos.ai. Pioneer in AEO research since 2024, exploring the convergence of SEO and GEO (Generative Engine Optimization). Led multiple AI-powered content optimization projects that achieved 300%+ citation increases in ChatGPT and Perplexity.