AEO Consultants
Make ChatGPT, Claude & Perplexity recommend your business — not your competitor's
AEO (Answer Engine Optimisation) is the new SEO. We install the three plain-text files AI assistants actually read — llms.txt, agents.txt and robots.txt — grounded in your real search data, not guesswork. Five days from kickoff to live. See our own implementation.
Book Your AEO Discovery Call
We'll show you exactly how ChatGPT, Claude and Perplexity currently represent your business — and what we'd fix in the first five days.
No obligations. We'll research your AI visibility, then present our findings and recommendations on the call.
What's changed in the last twelve months
Four signals that AEO has moved from "nice to have" to urgent — and what each one means for your business.
AI traffic is already in your analytics
Nine out of ten clients are shocked when we open their GA4. ChatGPT and Perplexity now drive more sessions than Facebook for many of them. The traffic is there — they just weren't measuring it.
Most websites silently opted-out of AI in Sept 2024
Cloudflare changed its default robots policy to block AI crawlers. If your site is behind Cloudflare and nobody explicitly opted you back in, ChatGPT can't read you. A five-minute fix — if someone knows to do it.
AI consideration sets are stable — for brands inside them
Rand Fishkin / SparkToro: City of Hope hospital appears in 97% of ChatGPT responses about West Coast cancer care. Bose and Sony hold 55-77% of headphone recommendations. Once you're in, you stay in. Once you're out, you're invisible.
Three files, not thirty pages of content
Your website was built for humans clicking through pages. AI assistants need three plain-text files at your root: llms.txt, agents.txt and robots.txt. We write them, ground them in your real search data, and ship them in five days.
The new path from question to customer
People used to type keywords into Google. Now they ask ChatGPT, Claude or Perplexity a full question — and get a single recommendation. Here's what that looks like side-by-side.
📊Traditional Discovery (Declining)
🚀AI-Powered Discovery (The new default)
How ChatGPT Agent Browses Websites (Research: 1M Actions Analyzed)
"Agents are trained to complete tasks. If one path is blocked, they'll simply take another." - Jes Scholz, Search Engine Land
"Control the narrative AI tells about you ..Future-proofing for the AI-first search era" - Mike Rhodes, www.8020agent.com
The three files ChatGPT actually reads
Forget content marathons. The AEO foundation is three plain-text files at your website root — and most sites are missing all three.
llms.txt File
A structured file at yourwebsite.com/llms.txt that tells AI what your business does, who you serve, your pricing, and why you're different.
agents.txt File
Instructions for AI on how to help your potential customers. Common questions, processes, terminology, and troubleshooting guidance.
robots.txt
The single most-overlooked file. Cloudflare started blocking AI crawlers by default in Sept 2024 — most sites are silently invisible. We rewrite robots.txt with an explicit allow-list for the 15 AI crawlers that matter.
Industry Adoption: Standards Used by Tech Leaders
(makers of Claude)
(ChatGPT web search)
(AI platform)
(AI coding)
(created standard)
"We implement enterprise-grade AEO strategies used by tech giants"
A client AEO foundation, shipped in five days
A long-term client. Multi-location service business operating across two countries. Here is the exact Discovery Pack we ran for them in May 2026.
The starting point
- Multi-location footprint across two countries, two domains
- Five-star Google ratings across every location
- 13,517 Google Ads search-terms across 24 months sitting unused
- Zero AI discovery files. Default Cloudflare robots.txt blocking AI crawlers.
What we shipped
- 6 files total: llms.txt + agents.txt + robots.txt for each domain
- 77 grounded FAQs across both markets, written from real Ads search-term data
- robots.txt allow-list for 15 AI crawlers — Cloudflare block reversed
- Four explicit 'who we do not serve' rules in agents.txt — keeping wrong-fit enquiries out
What we keep seeing in client analytics: nine out of ten clients are shocked when we open their GA4 and show them how many sessions are arriving from ChatGPT, Claude and Perplexity. For many B2B clients, AI now drives more sessions than Facebook. The traffic was already there. They just had not been measuring it.
Observation across the Smash It Marketing client portfolio, 2026
Our AI SEO Implementation Process
Comprehensive optimisation across 6 critical areas to maximize your visibility
Some of what we do:
- Publishing original research and data to earn authoritative citations
- Building content hubs around your core topics with strategic internal linking
- Structuring content with clear hierarchies and scannable formats AI can easily parse
- Adding expert quotes and detailed author bios to strengthen credibility signals
Some of what we do and/or working alongside existing developers:
- Configuring robots.txt to allow AI bot access while blocking bad actors
- Implementing schema markup and semantic HTML for better content understanding
- Optimizing Core Web Vitals for speed, responsiveness, and visual stability
- Setting up XML sitemaps and fixing crawl errors across your site
Some of what we do:
- Building links from publications already cited by AI platforms
- Creating shareable assets like tools and calculators that naturally attract mentions
- Partnering with authors frequently referenced in AI responses
- Reclaiming lost backlinks and correcting misinformation on third-party sites
Some of what we do:
- Optimizing Google Business Profile, Bing Places, and Apple Maps listings
- Building localized citations and directory listings in your region
- Creating location-specific pages targeting city and neighborhood queries
- Maintaining consistent NAP (Name, Address, Phone) across all platforms
Some of what we do:
- Monitoring AI responses for brand accuracy and correcting hallucinations
- Encouraging customer reviews across multiple platforms
- Building EEAT signals (Experience, Expertise, Authority, Trust)
- Protecting branded search results from competitor encroachment
Some of what we do:
- Tracking brand mentions and citations in AI-generated responses
- Measuring AI Share of Voice compared to competitors
- Monitoring keyword rankings and organic traffic trends
- Analyzing which pages AI platforms cite most frequently
AI SEO for E-commerce: Shopify, WooCommerce & Online Stores
When shoppers ask ChatGPT "where can I buy [your product]?" will it recommend your store?
Why E-commerce Needs AI SEO NOW
Shopify AI SEO Advantages
Clean URL Structure
Shopify's organized structure helps AI crawl products efficiently
Built-in Structured Data
Product schema already implemented helps AI understand inventory
Simple llms.txt Placement
Easy to add static files to Shopify root via theme assets
Product Descriptions
Already optimized format that AI can parse easily
Collection Pages
Natural topical authority structure AI assistants prefer
E-commerce AI SEO Checklist
Product Catalog Optimisation
Structure products for AI discovery
Shopify llms.txt Implementation
Compatible with all platforms
Customer FAQ Optimisation
Answer engines ready
Shipping & Return Policies
AI-readable format
Product Descriptions
Structured for AI understanding
Category-Level Optimisation
Topical authority for AI
Platform Support
Amplify Your AI SEO with Integrated Marketing
Build authority content that AI assistants trust with strategic content creation that ensures AI has accurate, authoritative information about your business. High-quality content gives ChatGPT and Claude confident answers when recommending your services.
Deploy optimized landing pages for AI-discovered traffic. When AI recommends your business, visitors arrive pre-qualified—convert them with pages designed for high-intent traffic.
Enhance AI discovery with complete AI solution suite including lead generation and customer service. Capture AI-sourced visitors 24/7 with intelligent chatbots that qualify and convert automatically.
Track AI discovery performance with custom analytics dashboards. Monitor which AI platforms send traffic, conversion rates from AI referrals, and ROI from AI SEO investment.
Read our comprehensive guide to AI SEO implementation or explore more marketing insights and strategies in our blog.
Book Your AI SEO Strategy Call
We'll analyze your current AEO readiness and show you exactly how AI assistants currently represent your business
Get Your Custom AI SEO Analysis
No obligations. We'll research your AI visibility, then present our findings and recommendations on the call.
Choose Your AI SEO Implementation
From basic AI discovery to complete answer engine optimisation. Shopify & e-commerce specialists available for all packages.
These packages will completely align you with the inevitable, fast pace of change as we enter 2026. Deploying these strategies will place you in an enviable position to optimize for AI traffic.
AEO Discovery Pack
From $1,500
5-DAY INSTALL- Custom llms.txt file
- Custom agents.txt file
- robots.txt + 15-crawler allow-list
- Grounded in your real search data
- 30-min walkthrough call
- 30 days support
- 3-6 AI-optimized articles
- Competitor analysis
- Full AI SEO tracking & analysis
- Full AI SEO website audit
- Google My Business optimisation
- Brand context library & training
- Monthly strategy calls
- 6-8 articles/month
- Monthly AI file updates
- White label training templates
- Deep research paper
- ChatGPT Ad Platform prep
Timeline: 5 working days
AEO Authority Builder
From $4,500
3 MONTH PACKAGE- Custom llms.txt file
- Branded AI context page
- 90 days ongoing support
- Custom agents.txt file
- 3-6 AI-optimized articles
- Competitor analysis
- Full AI SEO tracking & analysis
- Full AI SEO website audit
- Google My Business optimisation
- Brand context library & training
- Monthly strategy calls
- 6-8 articles/month
- Monthly AI file updates
- White label training templates
- Deep research paper
- ChatGPT Ad Platform prep
Timeline: 3-4 weeks setup + 3 months
AEO Growth Partner
From $1,500/mo
ONGOING RETAINER- Custom llms.txt file
- Branded AI context page
- Custom agents.txt file
- 6-8 AI-optimized articles/month
- Competitor analysis
- Full AI SEO tracking & analysis
- Full AI SEO website audit
- Google My Business optimisation
- Brand context library & training
- Monthly strategy calls
- 6-8 articles/month
- Premium listicles - AI best practice
- Monthly AI file updates
- White label training templates
- 1 x Deep Research Paper PM per month
- 2026 ChatGPT Ad Platform preparation
- FAQ review - AI best practices
- Branded Customer AI Guide (for opt-in or CRM)
- Ongoing optimisation & support
Commitment: 6 months (10% off for 12mo)
Custom pricing based on business size and complexity.
Your AI SEO Questions Answered
Everything you need to know about AI SEO, AEO, and making your business discoverable to AI assistants
AI SEO Integrates With Your Full Marketing Stack
AI SEO and AEO aren't standalone—they amplify every other marketing channel you're using
AdWords Management
AI-discovered leads arrive with higher intent, improving AdWords conversion rates and lowering CPA
Content Creation
Authority content feeds AI knowledge. AI SEO ensures your thought leadership gets discovered and cited
AI Services
Complete AI ecosystem—discovery through AI SEO, engagement through AI assistants and chatbots
Landing Pages
AI-optimized landing pages convert AI-referred traffic better. AI assistants link to your best pages
About Smash It Marketing
With over 15 years of expertise in digital marketing—from Google Ads to SEO and content strategy—we've stayed at the forefront of industry best practices. We work alongside clients to position them as the undisputed authority in their niche, creating a competitive moat that keeps their competitors scrambling to catch up while they're already miles ahead.
When you work with us, it feels like having a dedicated full-time team member who's completely immersed in your brand, messaging, and success.
What Our Clients Say
Trusted by businesses across Australia
"We have been able to achieve results exceeding all expectations. This has only been possible due to the Smash It Marketing team."
Ray Tabone
Sydney
"Paul has managed our online marketing for a number of years and consistently demonstrated a deep understanding of our business goals and a keen insight into the intricacies of online marketing. Paul is a pleasure to work with and his responsiveness, attention to detail and willingness to go the extra mile has significantly contributed to our online success. We highly recommend Paul for anyone seeking a Digital marketing expert."
Kristy Jenyns
Melbourne
"Paul Saunders knows his stuff, but what sets him apart is how well he understands the business of business and his ability to connect the two. Conversations with Paul are always aligned to your business objectives. He takes the time to understand what matters most to you, and crafts campaigns & build tools to help you reach those goals. Paul is the real deal – highly skilled, business-savvy, and generous with his knowledge."
Mike Rhodes
Builder, Speaker, Thinker, Author
"We have been able to achieve results exceeding all expectations. This has only been possible due to the Smash It Marketing team."
Ray Tabone
Sydney
"Paul has managed our online marketing for a number of years and consistently demonstrated a deep understanding of our business goals and a keen insight into the intricacies of online marketing. Paul is a pleasure to work with and his responsiveness, attention to detail and willingness to go the extra mile has significantly contributed to our online success. We highly recommend Paul for anyone seeking a Digital marketing expert."
Kristy Jenyns
Melbourne
"Paul Saunders knows his stuff, but what sets him apart is how well he understands the business of business and his ability to connect the two. Conversations with Paul are always aligned to your business objectives. He takes the time to understand what matters most to you, and crafts campaigns & build tools to help you reach those goals. Paul is the real deal – highly skilled, business-savvy, and generous with his knowledge."
Mike Rhodes
Builder, Speaker, Thinker, Author
Book Your AI SEO Strategy Call
We'll analyze your current AEO readiness and show you exactly how AI assistants currently represent your business
Get Your Custom AI SEO Analysis
No obligations. We'll research your AI visibility, then present our findings and recommendations on the call.
What Our Clients Say
Trusted by businesses across Australia
"We have been able to achieve results exceeding all expectations. This has only been possible due to the Smash It Marketing team."
Ray Tabone
Sydney
"Paul has managed our online marketing for a number of years and consistently demonstrated a deep understanding of our business goals and a keen insight into the intricacies of online marketing. Paul is a pleasure to work with and his responsiveness, attention to detail and willingness to go the extra mile has significantly contributed to our online success. We highly recommend Paul for anyone seeking a Digital marketing expert."
Kristy Jenyns
Melbourne
"Paul Saunders knows his stuff, but what sets him apart is how well he understands the business of business and his ability to connect the two. Conversations with Paul are always aligned to your business objectives. He takes the time to understand what matters most to you, and crafts campaigns & build tools to help you reach those goals. Paul is the real deal – highly skilled, business-savvy, and generous with his knowledge."
Mike Rhodes - 8020agent.com
Builder, Speaker, Thinker, Author
"Paul has been partnering with us for well over a decade, which is a testament to his knowledge (he's constantly upskilling), his care for us and our success. He has been a pivotal part of FightFit and it's growth. We couldn't recommend him highly enough!!"
FightFit
Melbourne
"We have been able to achieve results exceeding all expectations. This has only been possible due to the Smash It Marketing team."
Ray Tabone
Sydney
"Paul has managed our online marketing for a number of years and consistently demonstrated a deep understanding of our business goals and a keen insight into the intricacies of online marketing. Paul is a pleasure to work with and his responsiveness, attention to detail and willingness to go the extra mile has significantly contributed to our online success. We highly recommend Paul for anyone seeking a Digital marketing expert."
Kristy Jenyns
Melbourne
"Paul Saunders knows his stuff, but what sets him apart is how well he understands the business of business and his ability to connect the two. Conversations with Paul are always aligned to your business objectives. He takes the time to understand what matters most to you, and crafts campaigns & build tools to help you reach those goals. Paul is the real deal – highly skilled, business-savvy, and generous with his knowledge."
Mike Rhodes - 8020agent.com
Builder, Speaker, Thinker, Author
"Paul has been partnering with us for well over a decade, which is a testament to his knowledge (he's constantly upskilling), his care for us and our success. He has been a pivotal part of FightFit and it's growth. We couldn't recommend him highly enough!!"
FightFit
Melbourne