As large language models (LLMs) increasingly shape search behavior, traditional SEO checklists alone won’t cut it. To appear in AI-generated answers, you need a visibility strategy built for how LLMs crawl, parse, cite, and serve content. This 60-day LLM SEO checklist is your roadmap.

It’s broken down into six tactical categories:

1. Brand Mentions
2. Brand Equity
3. Be the Source
4. Passage-Level Optimization
5. Cover the Conversation
6. Crawlability

Each of these is essential for earning visibility in AI responses from tools like ChatGPT, Gemini, Perplexity, and Claude.

1. Brand Mentions

Search engines and AI crawlers increasingly rely on unlinked brand mentions as trust signals. Getting your brand name mentioned—even without a hyperlink—can boost authority in the LLM layer of search.

What to do:

• Get featured in high-authority websites in your niche (via digital PR or HARO: https://www.helpareporter.com/)
• Publish in reputable industry publications like TechCrunch or Search Engine Journal
• Join Reddit threads, Quora discussions, and active forums where your ICP hangs out
• Encourage UGC via branded hashtags, affiliate communities, or review incentives

Why it matters: LLMs like Perplexity and ChatGPT source answers from highly trusted domains and communities. The more your brand name appears in those spaces, the more likely your content will be cited, paraphrased, or suggested.

2. Brand Equity