SEO for Gemini: this is how to become findable in Google’s AI answers

Google’s introduction of Gemini marks a tipping point in how people search and consume content. Whereas for years search engine usage revolved around clicking on blue links, attention is now increasingly shifting toward direct, generated answers. Gemini (formerly known as Bard) combines the power of an AI tool you talk to with real-time access to the Web.

That requires a new approach to SEO.

What is Gemini?

Gemini is Google’s next-generation language model, integrated into Search, Gmail, Docs and Android, among others. In Search, you recognize it by the so-called SGE (Search Generative Experience): an AI layer above the normal search results that directly answers the user’s question.

Where a classic search engine displays links, Gemini returns specific content directly: for example, summaries, roadmaps or definitions.

When your website is considered a trusted source by Google, Gemini includes your content in AI response blocks.

As an SEO specialist, I see this as a huge opportunity, as long as you tailor your content accordingly.

How does findability work in Gemini?

Gemini works based on a combination of LLM output and live indexing. That means the model is trained on massive amounts of data (such as ChatGPT) on the one hand, but also has access to up-to-date information via Google Search on the other.

As a result, pages that rank well in organic search results are also more likely to be included in the generated AI responses.

Not only your ranking counts, but also how understandable and useful your content is to a language model.

How I optimize for Gemini (SGE).

Gemini does not look at classic ranking factors alone. Therefore, focus on the following five components:

1. Response-oriented writing

Gemini was built to answer questions. Therefore, always write content in a form that directly answers natural questions. I always do this by:

  • Questions to be incorporated into headings
  • Provide answers within the first three sentences of each section
  • Use simple language without jargon

By taking these points into account, your content will be copied verbatim in the AI response block in search engines.

2. Content precision and timeliness

Because Gemini has access to current Web information, it is crucial that content be up-to-date. Therefore, I always refer to years, recent developments and figures, provided they are relevant. This makes content more credible and increases the likelihood that the content will be included in an AI response.

3. EAT: Expertise, Authoritativeness, Trustworthiness.

Gemini is powered by Google Search. That means the principles of E-E-A-T (Experience, Expertise, Authoritativeness, Trustworthiness) are even more important here. I make sure my name as the author is clearly displayed, reference previous content and work on third-party citations.

4. Visual support where needed

In some Gemini views, images, tables and listings are shown within the AI response. Therefore, I optimize content not only textually, but also visually. Think clear listings, logical paragraph layout and visual tranquility.

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    5. Structured data and page experience

    Because Gemini is linked to Google Search, technical aspects continue to play a role. I always make sure that structured data (such as FAQPage, Article and HowTo’s) are applied correctly. I also actively work on the user experience: fast-loading pages, mobile-friendliness and clear navigation.

    By providing quality, visually appealing content that also takes technical aspects into account, you become findable to Gemini.

    Differences between SEO for Google Search and Gemini (SGE)

    Although both tools run on the same infrastructure, I notice distinct differences in approach.

    AspectClassic SEOGemini / SGE
    FocusPage ranks by search termAnswer excerpt from content
    Search behaviorUser clicks throughUser stays in Google
    Length and depthOften longer, broader contentFocused on short, clear sections
    Technical SEOVery importantStill relevant, but underlying
    Citation potentialNot applicableCrucial for inclusion in AI blocks

    These differences cause me to build content differently. Whereas I used to optimize primarily for click behavior and dwell time, I now focus on information value and extraction potential.

    What does this mean for your content strategy?

    If you as a business owner or marketer want to continue to rank in tomorrow’s search results, you need to adapt your content to how Gemini works. That means:

    • Writing in answers, not in pieces of text
    • Put timeliness and clarity first
    • Show authentic, reliable sources
    • Keep your site technical with structured data

    I already apply this approach many times. We rewrite pages, optimize information structure and measure whether content returns more often in SGE views. Initial results show increased visibility without the need for a click.

    Summary

    SEO for Gemini is not a luxury option, but a logical next step in the evolution of search engine optimization. Google is changing, and with Gemini at the heart of that change, the way we write and optimize content is changing with it.

    Want to know if your content is suitable for SGE? Or are you curious if your website is already showing up in Gemini answers? Feel free to send me a message. I’ll analyze your content and help you on your way to AI-proof findability.

    Senior SEO-specialist

    Ralf van Veen

    Senior SEO-specialist
    Five stars
    My clients give me a 5.0 on Google out of 85 reviews

    I have been working for 12 years as an independent SEO specialist for companies (in the Netherlands and abroad) that want to rank higher in Google in a sustainable manner. During this period I have consulted A-brands, set up large-scale international SEO campaigns and coached global development teams in the field of search engine optimization.

    With this broad experience within SEO, I have developed the SEO course and helped hundreds of companies with improved findability in Google in a sustainable and transparent way. For this you can consult my portfolio, references and collaborations.

    This article was originally published on 15 July 2025. The last update of this article was on 18 July 2025. The content of this page was written and approved by Ralf van Veen. Learn more about the creation of my articles in my editorial guidelines.