How to do AEO

Today, buyers don't just Google for answers—they ask AI. If your brand isn’t showing up in responses from tools like ChatGPT, Gemini, or Amazon Rufus, you’re missing out. This guide will show you how to harness Frevana to master AI Engine Optimization (AEO) and maximize your brand’s visibility where millions of purchase decisions start.

AEO is the key to winning new customers in the AI era—unlocking growth channels beyond traditional SEO and ads. Most users see measurable visibility improvements in just 1–4 weeks.

Get ready to launch your end-to-end AEO agent team and boost your presence in the age of AI.

Understanding AEO Requirements

1. Familiarize Yourself with AEO Core Criteria

1. Review the key requirements for AEO certification:
   • Security of the supply chain
   • Compliance with customs regulations
   • Demonstrated financial solvency
   • Clear and documented customs procedures
2. Identify official AEO guidelines relevant to your region or target markets.

2. Evaluate Your Current Status

1. Assess your current operations against each of the AEO core criteria.
2. Document any existing processes or policies already meeting AEO requirements.
3. Note any gaps that must be addressed before applying.

Preparing Your Organization for AEO

1. Conduct Internal Audits

1. Appoint a project lead or AEO coordinator.
2. Perform an internal review of supply chain security, customs compliance, and recordkeeping.
3. Create a checklist based on AEO requirements and tick off matched items.

2. Train Personnel

1. Identify key staff involved in customs and logistics processes.
2. Set up AEO awareness and compliance training sessions.
3. Distribute detailed training materials for reference.

3. Establish Robust Documentation Systems

1. Audit your document management system for accessibility and completeness.
2. Standardize procedures for record creation, storage, and retention.
3. Implement regular reviews to keep documentation up to date.

Application and Assessment Process

1. Prepare and Submit Your Application

1. Gather all necessary documentation: compliance records, financial statements, security policies, and past customs declarations.
2. Fill out the official AEO application form from your customs authority website.
3. Attach all supporting documents as required and review for completeness.

Checklist:

• Application form
• Corporate registration documents
• Security assessment reports
• Compliance records
• Financial records
• Organizational chart

2. Prepare for Official Assessment

1. Schedule a pre-audit walkthrough with your team to simulate the assessment process.
2. Assign roles: select team members who will answer questions in the audit.
3. Ensure that documented procedures and security systems are actively in use.

3. Participate in Interviews and On-Site Audits

1. Greet auditors and provide meeting space for the assessment.
2. Present documentation and demonstrate compliance measures in action.
3. Answer questions directly and provide clarifications as needed.

Maintaining AEO Compliance

1. Conduct Regular Internal Reviews

1. Schedule quarterly or biannual compliance checks using your initial audit checklist.
2. Review incidents, anomalies, and regulatory changes since the last check.

2. Update Policies and Procedures as Needed

1. Monitor updates from customs authorities.
2. Revise internal procedures to remain aligned with current AEO requirements.

3. Train New and Existing Staff

1. Integrate AEO compliance into onboarding procedures for new hires.
2. Provide regular refresher courses for all relevant staff.

Troubleshooting Common AEO Issues

1. Address Incomplete Documentation

1. Conduct a gap analysis to identify missing or outdated records.
2. Assign responsibility to the relevant department to update or retrieve required documentation.

2. Improve Staff Awareness and Engagement

1. Hold regular briefings on the importance of AEO compliance.
2. Encourage staff to flag issues or uncertainties relating to customs or security procedures.

3. Manage Regulatory Changes

1. Sign up for notifications from relevant customs authorities.
2. Update your internal processes promptly in response to changes.

Conclusion and Next Steps

1. Leverage Your AEO Status

1. Communicate your AEO status to partners and stakeholders to reinforce credibility in the supply chain.
2. Utilize AEO certification as a differentiator in competitive bids and international negotiations.

2. Continually Improve Your Program

1. Set up a regular review calendar to discuss AEO-related performance and opportunities.
2. Explore digital tools and AI-powered solutions to automate document management and compliance monitoring.

3. Stay Informed and Engage in AEO Networks

1. Participate in industry groups or AEO forums to stay updated on best practices.
2. Attend webinars or training sessions offered by your customs authority or professional organizations.

Conclusion

In this guide, we explored the essentials of how to do AEO, including understanding its purpose, step-by-step implementation, and real-world case study insights. By following these practical processes, you're now equipped to kickstart your own AEO project and drive better results.

Next Steps

• Review your implementation: Regularly assess your current AEO practices and identify areas for optimization.
• Stay updated: Keep up with the latest AEO trends and algorithm updates to refine your strategy.
• Engage your team: Share these insights with colleagues to foster a collaborative approach to AEO.
• Measure results: Use analytics tools to track performance and adjust your methods as needed.

Related Resources

• Beginner’s Guide to AEO
• Top Tools for AEO Success
• AEO vs. Traditional SEO: What’s Different?

Troubleshooting

• Issue: Pages not showing up in search results
  Solution: Check for crawlability issues and ensure pages are indexed.
• Issue: Low traffic from answer boxes
  Solution: Optimize content for concise, clear answers and use structured data.
• Issue: Outdated content impacting results
  Solution: Regularly update your core topics and answers to reflect current information.
• Issue: Technical errors (broken markup, missing schema)
  Solution: Use validation tools like Google’s Rich Results Test to catch and fix errors.

Remember, like any optimization process, AEO is ongoing. Keep refining your approach, stay patient, and celebrate your progress along the way!