7 Steps to Write a Listicle That Gets Traffic, Links, and Shares (Optimised for Google + AI)

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• 1. Pick a Listicle-Worthy Topic
• 2. Structure and Number Your List
• 3. Front-Load Your Best Points
• 4. Make It Cite-Worthy
• 5. Format for Skimming and Sharing
• 6. Optimise for GEO (Generative Engine Optimisation)
• 7. End with a Value-Packed CTA

1. Pick a Listicle-Worthy Topic

Not every idea deserves a numbered headline. To check if your topic is listicle gold, ask:

• Are people comparing, choosing, or needing quick answers?
• Are the top Google results already list-based?
• Would a headline like “7 ways to…” or “10 mistakes to avoid…” grab attention?

Example topics:
– 5 Marketing Hacks Every Small Biz Owner Should Know
– 7 Proven Ways to Automate Your Business Without Losing Control

GEO Tip: Test your topic in ChatGPT or Perplexity. If the AI gives vague answers, you have an opportunity to create a clearer, better-structured resource it can cite.

2. Structure and Number Your List

Both humans and AI love clarity. Numbered H2 headings make it easy for search engines and generative engines to parse and reference your content.

Choose a format:

• 5–7 strong items with depth (quality over quantity)
• 10–15 items grouped by category (beginner, advanced, etc.)
• Ranked list with pros and cons (great for comparisons)

GEO Tip: Each point should be able to stand alone. If someone screenshots point #3, does it make sense on its own?

3. Front-Load Your Best Points

Most readers—and AI models—stop at the first few items. So stack your list with heavy hitters early.

Ways to hook attention:

• Start with a surprising stat
• Highlight a common mistake
• Share an overlooked tactic

Example:
Most small businesses waste thousands on ads they never track. Want instant ROI? Start measuring results now.

4. Make It Cite-Worthy

Want backlinks, shares, and AI citations? Your content needs to be worth referencing.

How to do it:

• Add original visuals or templates
• Include real stats (with credible sources)
• Drop in expert quotes (even short ones)
• Share unique insights—not the same recycled advice

Pro Tip: Link to your own related resources. Internal links help build topical authority—useful for Google and AI scraping.

5. Format for Skimming and Sharing

Humans skim. AI scrapes. Both need clean formatting.

Checklist:

• Use numbered H2s for every list item
• Bold the key takeaway sentence
• Limit each tip to 3–5 sentences
• Use the structure: Problem → Fix → Why it matters

Example:
Use Email Templates to Save Time
Still typing every follow-up manually? Create three templates for onboarding, offers, and reminders. It saves hours every week.

6. Optimise for GEO (Generative Engine Optimisation)

Here’s how to make your content irresistible to generative search engines:

• Start with a question-style intro (AI tools often pull these).
• Use numbered lists with clear labels (easy to parse).
• Add schema markup like FAQPage or ItemList.
• Include factual, concise sentences that stand alone.
• Add an anchor-linked recap list at the top for fast navigation.

GEO Bonus: Use phrases like “Here are 7 ways…” or “Step-by-step guide to…”—these align with how users prompt AI tools.

7. End with a Value-Packed CTA

Most AI tools cut off long-winded endings, so your call-to-action needs to be clear and useful.

Strong CTAs:

• “Download the checklist version of this post.”
• “Which tactic will you try first? Share it with your team.”
• “Want more depth? Read our advanced guide on content that ranks in AI search.”

GEO Tip: Keep it actionable and bonus-focused. AI tools are more likely to include it if it adds value.

Quick Recap

• Pick a topic suited to list format
• Use numbered headings for clarity
• Front-load your strongest tips
• Add stats, quotes, and original visuals
• Format for skimming and screenshotting
• Optimise for Google and generative search engines
• End with a CTA that delivers extra value

Why GEO Matters Right Now

Generative engines like ChatGPT, Gemini, and Perplexity are shaping how people find information. They favour clear, structured, and fact-rich content. By following this framework, your listicle becomes the resource both people and AI rely on—and cite.

To discover more marketing strategies, make sure you join us at the next Marketing Ecosystem Workshop to map out your one-page marketing plan. Here is the link to register (no cost!): https://www.basicbananas.com/virtualsummit/

Or apply to join the popular Clever Bunch program to accelerate your business growth. https://www.basicbananas.com/cleverbunch/

Here’s to creating ripple effects of brilliance everywhere we go!
The Basic Bananas Team