Introduction
Ever asked your phone a question like, “Hey Google, who’s the best plumber near me?” Chances are, you didn’t even scroll—you just went with the top answer. That’s the world tradies are competing in now. Search isn’t just about keywords anymore; it’s about answers. Welcome to AEO—the next evolution of SEO.
In this post, we’ll break down what AEO means, how it differs from SEO, and how Aussie tradies can use it to keep the jobs rolling in.
What Is SEO (and Why It Still Matters)
SEO, or Search Engine Optimisation, is what helps your business show up on Google when someone searches for services like yours. If you’re an electrician in Sydney, SEO ensures you appear when someone types “emergency electrician near me.”
SEO focuses on things like:
- Using the right keywords on your website
- Getting reviews and backlinks
- Keeping your site fast and mobile-friendly
In short, SEO helps you get found. But the way people search is changing.
Enter AEO: The Next Step in Getting Found
AEO stands for Answer Engine Optimisation. It’s all about making sure your business provides the best answer when someone asks their device a question.
With AI tools like ChatGPT, Siri, and Google Assistant, people don’t browse—they ask. These tools pull the most relevant, trustworthy answers directly from online content.
That means tradies need to start thinking beyond keywords. AEO is about creating content that answers real questions clearly, so AI engines pick your business as the go-to response.
AEO vs SEO: What’s the Difference?
|
SEO |
AEO |
|
Focuses on ranking in Google |
Focuses on providing the best answer |
|
Uses keywords, backlinks & meta tags |
Uses context, intent & natural language |
|
Website content is optimised for algorithms |
Content is optimised for human questions |
|
Aims for visibility on search pages |
Aims for visibility in AI and voice search |
Think of it like this: SEO helps people find you. AEO helps AI recommend you.
Why AEO Matters for Tradies in 2025 and Beyond
Search is going hands-free. Over 50% of local searches are now voice-based, and most of those lead to instant actions like booking or calling. When someone says, “Hey Siri, find a plumber in Parramatta,” your goal is to be the one Siri mentions first.
AEO gives tradies an edge because:
- Voice searches are usually local and urgent
- AI tools prioritise clear, trusted answers
- Businesses that optimise early will dominate local leads
If you’re not AEO-ready, your competitor might already be getting those “near me” calls before you even see them.
How to Start Optimising for AEO (Even Without a Tech Team)
You don’t need to be an SEO expert to start with AEO. Here’s how tradies can take action today:
- Answer Common Questions on Your Website
Create an FAQ section that answers questions like “How much does a plumber cost in Sydney?” or “Do electricians work weekends?” Use natural, conversational language. - Optimise Your Google Business Profile
Keep your profile updated with current hours, reviews, and photos. Google uses this info to answer local queries. - Use Natural Language in Your Content
Write like your customers talk. Instead of “residential electrical installations,” say “home wiring jobs.” - Partner with Trade Up Digital
We help tradies combine AI SEO + AEO strategies to stay visible in Google and AI-powered search tools.
(For more help, check out Trade Up Digital’s AI SEO Services.)
The Future: SEO + AEO = Smarter Visibility
The truth? It’s not SEO versus AEO. It’s SEO and AEO working together.
SEO builds your foundation—making sure you’re visible on Google. AEO takes it further, preparing your business for how people will search tomorrow.
At Trade Up Digital, we call it future-proof SEO. It’s about helping tradies rank today and still get found tomorrow when AI takes the wheel.
Conclusion
The digital world’s changing faster than ever. If your business isn’t adapting, it’s missing out on leads that used to come from word-of-mouth but now come from voice and AI.
Don’t wait for competitors to get ahead. Future-proof your visibility with AEO and SEO strategies built for tradies.
Talk to Trade Up Digital and get your business AI-ready today.
3 SEO-Optimised FAQs
- What is AEO and how is it different from SEO?
AEO (Answer Engine Optimisation) focuses on creating clear, helpful answers for AI and voice assistants, while SEO (Search Engine Optimisation) focuses on ranking your site on Google. Both are vital for tradies wanting more local jobs. - How can tradies optimise for voice search?
Tradies can optimise for voice by using conversational language, answering customer questions directly, and keeping their Google Business Profile updated with accurate info. - Why is AI SEO important for local tradies?
AI SEO helps tradies get found in voice, chat, and AI-driven searches. It increases visibility across new platforms where customers are already searching for services.
Ready to Get Found?
At Trade Up Digital, we help tradies like you show up on Google, get found in AI search, and turn clicks into real jobs.
👉 Ready to start booking bigger jobs?
What is AI search and how does it work?
AI search uses machine learning to understand intent and deliver direct answers instead of a list of links.
How can trade businesses appear in AI search results?
By creating clear, helpful content that answers real questions and maintaining strong local listings and reviews.
Is ChatGPT hard to use?
Yes, but it needs to evolve. AI SEO builds on traditional methods by focusing on natural language and real expertise.
Bachelor Science – Major: Computer Science. Melbourne University.
Diploma Nutrition. Australian College of Natural Therapies
JILLIAN BRANDON
About the Author
With over three decades of experience in technology, programming, and digital marketing, Jillian Brandon has built a reputation as a leader in the evolution of intelligent online systems. Holding a Bachelor of Science degree with a major in Computer Science, her early career included roles with major organisations such as the Australian Stock Exchange, Merrill Lynch, Fujitsu, and Liquid Air in the UK. This global experience established her deep technical expertise and strategic understanding of how digital systems and data shape business performance.
As the founder of Manifest Website Design and its specialist divisions Trade Up Digital and Rank for Care, Jillian now applies her extensive knowledge to the fields of SEO, automation, and AI development. She specialises in creating high-performing digital systems that combine search optimisation and AI-driven automation to deliver measurable growth. Her work positions her at the forefront of Australia’s emerging AI business landscape, helping companies leverage technology to gain a competitive advantage.