DISCOVER SEO INFLUENCERS on LINKEDIN 2026

Gemini said

As we navigate 2026, the SEO landscape on LinkedIn has shifted from traditional keyword tactics to Generative Engine Optimization (GEO), AI Visibility, and E-E-A-T (Experience, Expertise, Authoritativeness, and Trustworthiness).

I have curated a list of the most influential and rising SEO voices on LinkedIn for 2026. These creators are categorized by their specific expertise to help you follow the right minds for your current goals.

The 2026 SEO Influencer Shortlist

Category

Influencer

Primary Focus

AI & GEO Strategy

Aleyda Solis

International SEO & AI visibility frameworks.

Lily Ray

E-E-A-T, Search Quality, and Google AI Overviews.

Adriaan Dekker

AEO (Answer Engine) and GEO visibility.

Technical & Systems

Kevin Indig

Growth, product-led SEO, and enterprise systems.

Kristina Azarenko

Practical technical SEO and education.

Koray Tuğberk Gübür

Holistic SEO and Semantic/Topical Authority Maps.

Growth & Lead Gen

James Dooley

Lead generation SEO and automation systems.

Matt Diggity

Affiliate SEO and test-based ranking frameworks.

Kasra Dash

Systematized SEO frameworks and community building.

Rising Stars (2026)

Katarina Dahlin

AI-driven optimization and eCommerce workflows.

Milosz Krasiński

AI visibility, Digital PR, and LLM optimization.

Russell Lobo

GEO/AEO specialist for eCommerce brands.

Key Trends These Influencers Are Discussing in 2026

• The Rise of GEO (Generative Engine Optimization): Instead of just ranking #1 on a SERP, influencers like Adriaan Dekker and Russell Lobo focus on how to get brands cited within AI responses (ChatGPT, Perplexity, Gemini).

• Entity-First SEO: Koray Tuğberk Gübür and Predrag Petrović emphasize building "content ecosystems" rather than individual pages, focusing on how Google understands entities and relationships.

• Human-to-Human (H2H) Content: As AI-generated "slop" floods the internet, Aleyda Solis and Lily Ray are leading the charge on "Proof-led Publishing"—sharing content that features original data, case studies, and personal experiences that AI cannot replicate.

• Video-First LinkedIn Strategy: Many top SEOs have pivoted to short-form video. Patrick Rice and Charlie Hills are notable for using LinkedIn's immersive video feed to explain complex algorithm updates in under 60 seconds.

Quick Follow Recommendations

• If you are a SaaS Founder: Follow Kevin Indig or Sujan Sarkar.

• If you are an Agency Owner: Follow Kasra Dash or Craig Campbell.

• If you are a Technical SEO: Follow Aleyda Solis or Patrick Stox.

Note: In 2026, the LinkedIn algorithm heavily prioritizes "Depth over Breadth." To get the most from these influencers, engage with their carousels and long-form document posts, as these are the primary formats they use to share advanced technical frameworks.