As Generative Engine Optimization (GEO) becomes a cornerstone of digital marketing strategies, a common misconception has taken root: that “forum seeding” on platforms like Reddit is the golden ticket to visibility in AI-generated answers. While Reddit dominates informational queries (e.g., “how to fix a leaking tap”), new data suggests it falls short when users are actually ready to spend money.
A recent study by First Page Sage reveals that when it comes to buying-intent queries—searches that signal a readiness to purchase—AI models like ChatGPT, Perplexity, and Gemini rely far less on forums and far more on established authoritative media.
Here is what the data says and how you should adjust your SEO strategy to capture high-value AI traffic.
The Myth of Reddit Dominance
Previous studies, including one by Semrush, highlighted Reddit as a top-cited source for AI. However, these studies often aggregated all types of queries. First Page Sage’s analysis of over 36,000 buying-intent queries clarifies a crucial distinction:
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Informational Queries (e.g., “vacation ideas”): Reddit and Quora are heavily cited.
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Transactional Queries (e.g., “best CRM software for small business”): AI models turn to trusted review sites and editorial heavyweights.
In fact, forums make up only about 11% of citations for commercial recommendations. If your GEO strategy relies solely on community engagement, you are likely missing the bottom-of-the-funnel users who are ready to convert.
Top Website Types Cited by AI for Commercial Intent
When an AI model constructs a recommendation list for a user asking “What is the best ?”, it prioritizes structured data and authoritative reviews over user-generated chatter.
According to the study, the top sources cited are:
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Product Recommendation Media (7,642 citations): “Best of” lists from publishers like Wirecutter, Tom’s Guide, and TechRadar. These sites are trusted for their editorial rigor (and affiliate structures).
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Consumer Review Platforms (5,983 citations): Aggregators like Trustpilot, BBB, and Google Reviews.
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Traditional Media (4,581 citations): Legacy publishers with strong domain authority, such as Forbes, NYT, and Wired.
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New Media (3,826 citations): Tech-focused outlets like TechCrunch and The Verge.
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Directories & Marketplaces: Specific to B2B, sites like G2, Clutch, and UpCity are essential.
Industry-Specific Authority: Where You Need to Be Seen
The landscape of AI citations is highly fragmented by industry. To rank in AI snapshots, your brand needs to appear on the specific third-party sites that AI models associate with authority in your vertical.
Here are the top-cited domains for key industries:
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SaaS & B2B Services: G2, Clutch, DesignRush
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eCommerce: Wirecutter, Forbes, Tom's Guide
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Financial Services: NerdWallet, Investopedia, Forbes Advisor
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Healthcare: Forbes Health, Verywell Health, Medical News Today
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Real Estate: Zillow, Realtor.com, Redfin
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Manufacturing: Thomasnet, IndustryWeek, Engineering360
Actionable SEO Strategies for the AI Era
The key takeaway is that Third-Party SEO (Barnacle SEO) is now more critical than ever. You cannot simply optimize your own website and expect AI to recommend you; you must be present where the AI “learns” who is the best.
1. Prioritize “Best Of” Lists: Identify the top editorial sites in your niche (e.g., if you are in software, aim for a spot on a PC Mag or TechRadar list). Digital PR efforts should focus on getting your product reviewed by these editors.
2. Optimize Your Directory Profiles: For B2B companies, a complete and active profile on Clutch or G2 is mandatory. Ensure your profile has fresh reviews and detailed service descriptions, as AI models scrape this structured data.
3. Leverage Affiliate Marketing: Many “Product Recommendation Media” sites are monetization-driven. Establishing an affiliate program can make your product more attractive to publishers who write “Top 10” articles, indirectly boosting your visibility in AI results.
4. Don't Abandon Forums, But Know Their Place: Continue using Reddit for brand awareness and top-of-funnel engagement, but do not rely on it for direct sales conversions via AI recommendations.
خاتمة
As search evolves into Answer Engines, the traditional goal of “ranking #1 on Google” is shifting to “being cited #1 by AI.” To achieve this for buying-intent queries, marketers must pivot their focus from forums to authoritative publications, review platforms, and industry directories. By securing coverage on the sites that AI trusts, you position your brand as the logical recommendation for users ready to buy.
