Key takeaways
- Show formula and denominator.
- Mention rate is not market share.
- Use repeatable comparisons.
Define the metric
Mention rate is answers naming a brand divided by valid recorded answers. Citation rate counts answers linking to a relevant source instead. Recommendation rate needs a documented qualifying rule. Do not blend these without explanation.
Work through an example
In an illustrative audit of twenty valid answers, eight mention Acme Studio. Its mention rate is 8 ÷ 20 = 40%. Several brands can appear in one answer, so their individual mention rates do not necessarily sum to 100%.
Use share carefully
Share of all recorded brand mentions uses a different denominator from percentage of answers containing your brand. Count eligible brands consistently and explain the formula. Neither measure automatically describes market share.
Make comparison possible
Keep prompts, assistants, markets and collection settings documented. Report unavailable answers and sample size. Separate brand and non-brand prompts. Repeat observations to understand ordinary variation before interpreting small movements.
Connect the number to a decision
A low mention rate on comparison questions may justify reviewing comparison content or source accuracy. A high rate on questions already naming your brand may add little acquisition value. Include original answers, useful tasks and observable business outcomes.
References and further reading
Primary documentation and product references. Practical checklists and worked examples above are editorial guidance, not claims about private ranking algorithms.