We need a new definition of a “keyword” in the age of AI. Here it is.
Jason Barnard and Kalicube define a “keyword” like this:
- a niche topic
- a defined cohort
- clear intent to do business.
That changes everything.
New terms to replace “keyword”: “AI matchphrase” or “Brand-trigger phrase“
What this new definition of “keyword” really means in business:
Old school SEO keyword:
“Leadership coaching” = short, generic, high volume, low value.
Kalicube AI-era keyword:
“Leadership coach for venture-backed tech founders in Series A who need help scaling teams” = solution-focused, persona-specific, context-rich, purchase intent baked in.
In the AI-dominated world, keywords aren’t just search terms.
They’re micro-moments of commercial intent.
An AI keyword combines:
- a niche topic
- a defined cohort
- and a clear signal they’re ready to buy.
That’s the kind of query ChatGPT and Perplexity are trained to answer.
And if your brand isn’t the one they recommend—you don’t exist.
AI Engines interpret context, intent, and persona through a conversation.
So instead of aiming for the top of search with high-volume, vague terms, at Kalicube we engineer your brand to appear when your ideal customer is having a conversation with AI that signals:
- Their business context
- Their problem or pain point
- Their readiness to act
That’s the moment of commercial intent—and where Kalicube puts you.
New terms to replace “keyword”: “AI matchphrase” or “Brand-trigger phrase”
Real-world application:
When someone asks ChatGPT:
“What’s the best fractional CFO for startups under $10M with cash flow issues?”
That’s a Kalicube-style keyword.
If your brand isn’t optimized for that niche + cohort + intent combination, you’re invisible.
But when it is – you’re the one AI recommends, and you make the sale.
What this means for your strategy:
- No more chasing high-volume vanity keywords.
- Focus on engineered visibility in AI conversations that convert.
- Build content, digital assets, and brand signals that answer real buying questions—not just keywords.
Teach the machines that you are the undisputed best fit for that niche, that problem, that buyer.
Want to own your niche in AI and search?
We’ll show you how to define, optimize, and dominate YOUR brand-trigger phrases with Kalicube’s services to rank on ChatGPT and AI >>
