If your customers are searching with AI — but your digital strategy is still built with the old Google/Bing algorithm in mind — we need to talk.
B2B exporters are facing a new challenge: the rules of search are changing. Traditional SEO tactics alone are no longer enough. Generative AI tools like ChatGPT, Google’s SGE, and Microsoft Copilot are now curating answers, not just serving up results. If your business isn’t showing up in those AI-generated responses, you're already falling behind.
IBT Online knows this — and we’re building strategies that help U.S. businesses adapt, compete, and stay visible in a world powered by AI search.
Read on to learn how we’re turning Online Local into an AI-ready growth engine — and what “Generative Engine Optimization” (GEO) means for your international strategy.
The Search Shift: From Keywords to Conversations
We’ve entered the era of AI-driven discovery. That means buyers aren’t just typing search terms — they’re asking complex questions and expecting synthesized, relevant answers. And they’re doing it through ChatGPT, Google SGE, and tools integrated right into their browser or inbox.
What’s changed?
- Generative engines prioritize structured data, verified sources, and content with context.
- AI tools don’t scroll to page two — they recommend.
- Visibility now depends on being AI-readable, not just Google-indexed.
So, when a potential customer asks their AI tool:
“Who are the top U.S. suppliers for precision manufacturing equipment with offices in Europe?” You need your business to be in that response.
IBT Online knows and uses these tools — including ChatGPT and Copilot — daily, and we optimize our clients' content so it shows up where decisions are made.
And yes — the robots are here. But don’t panic. We speak fluent robot.
What is GEO — and Why Should You Care?
It’s a fast-evolving field, and companies already investing in GEO are seeing results:
- Companies using GEO best practices saw up to 35% improvement in AI visibility metrics within six months
- Over 70% of B2B decision-makers now use AI tools during product research or supplier discovery
- Google’s SGE is expected to reach 1 billion+ users in 2025
This isn’t theoretical. It’s operational. And it’s accelerating.
How IBT Online Helps Businesses Stay Visible
At IBT Online, we’ve been building digital infrastructure for U.S. businesses for nearly two decades. GEO is the natural next step — and we’re helping clients integrate it into their Online Local Programs right now.
Here’s what we deliver:
- AI-Optimized Global Websites
Built for speed, structure, schema markup, and clarity — ready for AI discovery. - Localized Content Built for GEO
Written with context, language nuance, and formatting that AI understands and surfaces. - Search Engine + AI Engine Strategy
GEO complements traditional SEO. We make sure your business ranks — and gets recommended. - Online Local Execution
Every target market gets its own tailored presence: localized content, hosting, compliance, and currency — all aligned with GEO best practices.
So yes, while most companies are still learning what GEO even is, IBT Online is already building it into your strategy.
FAQ: What You Need to Know About GEO and Online Local
What is GEO and how is it different from SEO?
GEO focuses on optimizing your digital presence for AI search tools like ChatGPT and Google SGE. It emphasizes clean structure, authoritative content, and brand positioning that AI models can easily reference and summarize.
What is Online Local, and why does it matter now more than ever?
Online Local is your tailored presence in your key target market — built with the right domains, languages, currencies, and SEO. GEO amplifies that presence by making it discoverable in AI-powered engines, not just traditional search.
Can IBT Online help us with both GEO and Online Local?
Yes. We specialize in full-stack digital strategies — combining marketing, development, and AI-readiness into scalable programs designed for B2B exporters.
What’s the first step?
Get in touch and schedule a consultation. We’ll audit your current online presence and outline a strategy that positions you for visibility across AI and local search landscapes alike.