Marketing FAQs | Mandy Richardson Marketing

Whether you’re new to digital marketing or exploring how AI fits into your strategy, these answers cover some of the most common questions I’m asked by clients.

1. What’s the difference between SEO, AEO, and GEO?

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Summary: SEO improves visibility in traditional search, AEO prepares content for AI-driven results, and GEO boosts local and generative search presence.

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SEO (Search Engine Optimization) is all about helping your website get found in traditional search results. It’s the behind-the-scenes work that makes your site easier for Google to crawl and understand, including things like metadata, keywords, site structure, and content unique to your business. Good SEO strengthens your brand visibility and helps you show up when someone’s searching for what you offer.

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AEO (Answer Engine Optimization) takes things a step further. It’s about preparing your content for AI-driven searches; the kind of questions people ask Google Gemini, ChatGPT, or voice assistants. AEO uses structured Q&A content, schema markup, and clear language so your answers are easy for AI tools to identify, summarize, and cite.

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GEO can actually mean two different things, and both matter.
Geographic Engine Optimization focuses on local search visibility, helping you show up in “near me” searches around Mount Dora, Lake County, or wherever your audience is located.

Generative Engine Optimization focuses on AI visibility, getting your content referenced by AI tools or LLMs. This involves combining SEO and AEO tactics with Google’s E-E-A-T principles (Experience, Expertise, Authoritativeness, Trustworthiness) so your business stands out as a credible, reliable source.

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2. How does AEO help with AI tools like Gemini or ChatGPT?

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Summary: AEO helps AI tools like Gemini and ChatGPT easily find, understand, and quote your content through structured data and clear context.

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Just like traditional SEO, Answer Engine Optimization (AEO) goes beyond creating great content. It involves structured techniques built into the backend of your website that help AI tools like Google Gemini, ChatGPT, and other generative engines easily crawl, understand, and reference your information.

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This very FAQ is a good example. On the front end, it’s designed to answer your questions clearly. On the backend, it uses structured data and context that help search engines and AI systems identify accurate, relevant answers to display in results or AI summaries.

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3. How long does it take to see results from SEO or digital marketing?

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Summary: Most businesses start seeing measurable SEO and digital marketing results within three to six months, depending on site quality and strategy.

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That’s a tough one because every website is different. Results depend on how large the site is, how much optimization work is needed, and how consistent your marketing efforts are. Smaller websites that already have a solid foundation can often see improvement within 3 to 6 months.

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When a website is built from scratch and designed with SEO, AEO, and GEO in mind from the start, results can appear faster because the structure, content, and strategy all work together. Sometimes, after reviewing an existing site, I’ll recommend starting fresh. It’s often more efficient and more affordable than trying to patch years of outdated code or content.

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4. What’s the best platform for building a small business website?

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Summary: Wix and Shopify are top choices for small business websites, with Wix best for simplicity and Shopify ideal for SEO, e-commerce, and AI integration.

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The first question I ask is whether your business needs e-commerce functionality. If it does, I usually recommend Wix or Shopify. The choice often comes down to how robust of a CRM (Customer Relationship Manager) and shipping tools you need.

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Both platforms are strong but in different ways. I like Wix for small businesses that want a beautiful, easy-to-manage website. It’s great for handoffs when the owner plans to manage the site after launch. Shopify is excellent for businesses that need advanced SEO, app integrations, or connections with AI tools and Google Merchant Center. It can be slightly more expensive monthly, but the performance and scalability often make it worth it.

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If your business only needs a simple “digital business card” style site without e-commerce or heavy SEO requirements, WordPress is still a reliable option.

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5. What are the most important elements of a successful marketing plan?

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Summary: A strong marketing plan starts with strategy, keyword research, and content that connects your brand to the right audience for measurable growth.

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Strategy, strategy, strategy! Every successful marketing plan starts with understanding your goals, challenges, and audience. Once I know who you’re trying to reach and what drives them, I can create a plan that connects your brand to the right people in the right way.

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I begin with SEO keyword research, which shows how your customers are actually searching for your products and services. Many times, clients are surprised by the language their audience uses online. Once those insights are clear, I develop tactics that combine content marketing, lead generation, and digital strategy to achieve measurable results.

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Each plan is customized for your business, designed for consistency, growth, and long-term success.

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6. How can I tell if my website needs a redesign?

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Summary: If your site is over five years old, slow, or not converting visitors, it’s time for a redesign built on modern SEO, AEO, and UX best practices.

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A good place to start is by asking how old your website is. If it’s more than five years old, there’s a good chance it’s time for an update. But before jumping in, take a look at your analytics. Are you seeing slow load speeds, error messages, or a drop in traffic and conversions?

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Your site should reflect your brand today and provide a smooth user experience (UX). Outdated visuals, confusing navigation, or low lead generation are all signs your website isn’t performing the way it should. A thoughtful redesign built with SEO, AEO, and modern web development best practices can refresh your brand and improve results.

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7. How does social media marketing connect to SEO and AEO?

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Summary: Active social media supports SEO and AEO by building credibility, improving engagement signals, and strengthening your brand’s online visibility.

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Social media marketing plays a big role in supporting both SEO and AEO. It helps you stay connected with your current audience while reaching new “look-alike” customers who share similar interests and needs.

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Your social activity also reinforces Google’s E-E-A-T principles (Experience, Expertise, Authoritativeness, and Trustworthiness). Consistently sharing quality content across your channels signals to search engines and AI tools that your brand is active, credible, and relevant. In short, strong social media engagement helps boost your visibility and supports your overall digital marketing strategy.

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Here’s to connection, creativity, and leaving a trail — ready to start yours?

Cheers! Mandy