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محتوای ارائه شده توسط Greg Sterling, Mike Blumenthal & David Mihm, Greg Sterling, Mike Blumenthal, and David Mihm. تمام محتوای پادکست شامل قسمت‌ها، گرافیک‌ها و توضیحات پادکست مستقیماً توسط Greg Sterling, Mike Blumenthal & David Mihm, Greg Sterling, Mike Blumenthal, and David Mihm یا شریک پلتفرم پادکست آن‌ها آپلود و ارائه می‌شوند. اگر فکر می‌کنید شخصی بدون اجازه شما از اثر دارای حق نسخه‌برداری شما استفاده می‌کند، می‌توانید روندی که در اینجا شرح داده شده است را دنبال کنید.https://fa.player.fm/legal
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How Local SEOs are using Gen AI & ChatGPT: Tips, tactics & strategies w/ Darren Shaw & Joy Hawkins
Manage episode 429856384 series 3417414
محتوای ارائه شده توسط Greg Sterling, Mike Blumenthal & David Mihm, Greg Sterling, Mike Blumenthal, and David Mihm. تمام محتوای پادکست شامل قسمت‌ها، گرافیک‌ها و توضیحات پادکست مستقیماً توسط Greg Sterling, Mike Blumenthal & David Mihm, Greg Sterling, Mike Blumenthal, and David Mihm یا شریک پلتفرم پادکست آن‌ها آپلود و ارائه می‌شوند. اگر فکر می‌کنید شخصی بدون اجازه شما از اثر دارای حق نسخه‌برداری شما استفاده می‌کند، می‌توانید روندی که در اینجا شرح داده شده است را دنبال کنید.https://fa.player.fm/legal
In this extended episode of the Near Memo, Greg Sterling , Joy Hawkins, Darren Shaw & Mike Blumenthal explore the role of generative AI and how it has evolved one year after CHat GPT was released. We cover:
- Experiences and opinions on the use of AI tools like ChatGPT in SEO and content creation.
- The effectiveness of AI in different aspects of agency work, including creative tasks and data analysis.
- The influence of AI on the quality of content and the evolving nature of SEO strategies.
- Perspectives on the future impact of AI on the SEO industry and the role of agencies.
How Local SEO agencies use AI to improve client content:
- Content Creation Challenges with AI: Contrary to initial expectations, AI has not replaced content writers. While it is used for drafting and repurposing content, AI-generated articles often require extensive human editing, especially for factual accuracy and coherence.
- Content Refinement and Repurposing: AI excels in transforming existing content into different formats, like converting a list into a blog post or a blog into a script. This minimizes the editing work required.
- Efficiency in Post Creation: AI has been particularly effective in generating social media or Google posts, reducing the time and mental effort involved in content creation. This includes automating tasks like emoji placement in posts.
How Local SEO agencies explain AI to their clients:
- AI in Client Communication: Both Sterling Sky and Whitesoark are transparent with clients about their AI usage, addressing concerns about potential negative impacts on SEO performance. AI is presented as a tool for idea generation and preliminary drafting, not as a primary content creator.
- Client Engagement with AI: Clients are generally receptive and interested in AI's role in content creation. The emphasis is on AI as an assistant that complements human skills, ensuring quality and originality in content.
- Cost Implications: There have been no significant shifts in pricing structures due to AI efficiencies. The focus is on using AI to maintain or reduce costs rather than altering client fees.
Local SEO Agencies & their AI future:
- AI as a reporting super power: extracting meaningful insights from large data sets for clients.
- Long-Term Impact on Staffing and Skills: Agencies do not foresee AI replacing human staff. Instead, AI is viewed as a tool that enhances staff capabilities. Concerns about AI causing dependency or de-skilling are noted, but the overall sentiment is optimistic.
- Future of AI in Local SEO: AI is expected to lead to more efficient workflows and better quality content. Agencies anticipate a growing divide between those heavily reliant on AI and those favoring a balanced, human-centric approach. AI's role in data analysis and automating repetitive tasks is highlighted, enhancing both client service and internal processes.
- Experiences and opinions on the use of AI tools like ChatGPT in SEO and content creation.
- The effectiveness of AI in different aspects of agency work, including creative tasks and data analysis.
- The influence of AI on the quality of content and the evolving nature of SEO strategies.
- Perspectives on the future impact of AI
Subscribe to our newsletters and other content at https://www.nearmedia.co/subscribe/
216 قسمت
اشتراک گذاریManage episode 429856384 series 3417414
محتوای ارائه شده توسط Greg Sterling, Mike Blumenthal & David Mihm, Greg Sterling, Mike Blumenthal, and David Mihm. تمام محتوای پادکست شامل قسمت‌ها، گرافیک‌ها و توضیحات پادکست مستقیماً توسط Greg Sterling, Mike Blumenthal & David Mihm, Greg Sterling, Mike Blumenthal, and David Mihm یا شریک پلتفرم پادکست آن‌ها آپلود و ارائه می‌شوند. اگر فکر می‌کنید شخصی بدون اجازه شما از اثر دارای حق نسخه‌برداری شما استفاده می‌کند، می‌توانید روندی که در اینجا شرح داده شده است را دنبال کنید.https://fa.player.fm/legal
In this extended episode of the Near Memo, Greg Sterling , Joy Hawkins, Darren Shaw & Mike Blumenthal explore the role of generative AI and how it has evolved one year after CHat GPT was released. We cover:
- Experiences and opinions on the use of AI tools like ChatGPT in SEO and content creation.
- The effectiveness of AI in different aspects of agency work, including creative tasks and data analysis.
- The influence of AI on the quality of content and the evolving nature of SEO strategies.
- Perspectives on the future impact of AI on the SEO industry and the role of agencies.
How Local SEO agencies use AI to improve client content:
- Content Creation Challenges with AI: Contrary to initial expectations, AI has not replaced content writers. While it is used for drafting and repurposing content, AI-generated articles often require extensive human editing, especially for factual accuracy and coherence.
- Content Refinement and Repurposing: AI excels in transforming existing content into different formats, like converting a list into a blog post or a blog into a script. This minimizes the editing work required.
- Efficiency in Post Creation: AI has been particularly effective in generating social media or Google posts, reducing the time and mental effort involved in content creation. This includes automating tasks like emoji placement in posts.
How Local SEO agencies explain AI to their clients:
- AI in Client Communication: Both Sterling Sky and Whitesoark are transparent with clients about their AI usage, addressing concerns about potential negative impacts on SEO performance. AI is presented as a tool for idea generation and preliminary drafting, not as a primary content creator.
- Client Engagement with AI: Clients are generally receptive and interested in AI's role in content creation. The emphasis is on AI as an assistant that complements human skills, ensuring quality and originality in content.
- Cost Implications: There have been no significant shifts in pricing structures due to AI efficiencies. The focus is on using AI to maintain or reduce costs rather than altering client fees.
Local SEO Agencies & their AI future:
- AI as a reporting super power: extracting meaningful insights from large data sets for clients.
- Long-Term Impact on Staffing and Skills: Agencies do not foresee AI replacing human staff. Instead, AI is viewed as a tool that enhances staff capabilities. Concerns about AI causing dependency or de-skilling are noted, but the overall sentiment is optimistic.
- Future of AI in Local SEO: AI is expected to lead to more efficient workflows and better quality content. Agencies anticipate a growing divide between those heavily reliant on AI and those favoring a balanced, human-centric approach. AI's role in data analysis and automating repetitive tasks is highlighted, enhancing both client service and internal processes.
- Experiences and opinions on the use of AI tools like ChatGPT in SEO and content creation.
- The effectiveness of AI in different aspects of agency work, including creative tasks and data analysis.
- The influence of AI on the quality of content and the evolving nature of SEO strategies.
- Perspectives on the future impact of AI
Subscribe to our newsletters and other content at https://www.nearmedia.co/subscribe/
216 قسمت
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Send us a text In this episode, Mike and Greg break down three major developments shaping the local search and AI landscape. First, they tackle the growing wave of Google Business Profile suspensions caused by rigid, AI-driven video verification—where even legitimate businesses are getting flagged. They offer practical advice on how to avoid getting suspended and why field-based verification is now essential. Next, they explore new consumer survey data showing a significant rise in people using AI tools like ChatGPT and Gemini for local business discovery. But while AI wins early attention, most users still turn to Google Maps or Search to take action—creating a split-funnel dynamic that Google must navigate to protect its ad model. Finally, they unpack Apple’s WWDC announcements, noting the glaring absence of Siri. Instead of chasing ChatGPT, Apple is doubling down on privacy-first, on-device AI . Meanwhile, Siri continues to underperform as voice UX expectations are being reshaped by tools like ChatGPT Voice. This episode is for marketers, SEOs, and local business owners trying to stay ahead of fast-moving changes in AI, search, and platform strategy. Subscribe to our newsletters and other content at https://www.nearmedia.co/subscribe/…
Send us a text In this episode of The Near Memo , Greg Sterling and Mike Blumenthal break down some of the biggest tectonic shifts happening at the intersection of AI, search, and antitrust law. The focal point? Google's claim that its Gemini AI now boasts 350 million monthly users. But what exactly counts as a user—and does stuffing Gemini into every app and product really mean it’s being used? Greg and Mike dig deep into how Google is leveraging its product ecosystem—Chrome, Gmail, Workspace, Maps, Android, and Search—to inflate AI engagement numbers. The two unpack why Gemini still underperforms compared to ChatGPT and Claude, and what that gap reveals about Google’s AI rollout and user trust. They also dive into the implications of the Department of Justice’s antitrust remedies following the conclusion of the Google search monopoly trial. What could it mean for the web if Google is forced to divest Chrome—or even Maps? The conversation explores Google’s use of default deals, bundling tactics, and how it might use its market power to dominate AI, just as it has search. Along the way, they highlight YouTube’s overlooked role as a future-first search engine, powered by how-to content, brand channels, and a closed ecosystem that Google fully controls. And they dissect how local guides, AI-driven local search results, and Google's declining web traffic referrals are reshaping digital marketing as we know it. Whether you're a marketer, SEO professional, journalist, or tech policy nerd—this episode gives you a grounded, provocative look at what’s really going on in the AI arms race. 🔑 Key Takeaways: Google’s Gemini user claim is deeply flawed. 350 million “monthly users” likely includes passive, backend interactions across the Google ecosystem—not active engagement. Gemini underperforms compared to ChatGPT and Claude. Independent research and user experience both point to Gemini lagging behind in quality and versatility. DOJ is pushing for serious remedies—like divesting Chrome. The antitrust trial may force Google to give up core assets or radically change how it bundles and distributes products. Google’s biggest moat might be local. With 150M local guides powering Maps and local profiles, Google's real strength lies in place-based information no one else has. The old web deal is dying. Google's former value exchange—“we send you traffic in exchange for your content”—is being replaced with “we scrape your site, and you buy the ads.” YouTube may become the dominant search engine. For how-to content and product discovery, YouTube beats traditional search—and Google controls every part of it. Rand Fishkin’s desktop-only data misses key insights. App usage and mobile behavior are reshaping how users interact with AI, but current reporting often overlooks this. The SERP is evolving into AI Mode. Google’s current hybrid of AI Overviews + Knowledge Graph is transforming how users experience local and informational queries. Brands must diversify now. With Google traffic likely to decline, businesses need to explore YouTube, TikTok, Perplexity, and other platforms—fast. 🎧 Tune in for: Smart, unscripted analysis Honest takes on Google’s AI positioning Real-world marketing strategy implications Predictions for how the search landscape is evolving Subscribe to our newsletters and other content at https://www.nearmedia.co/subscribe/…
Send us a text In this jam-packed episode of The Near Memo , hosts Greg Sterling and Mike Blumenthal welcome back Adam Dorfman , VP of Product at BirdEye, for a timely deep dive into the ever-shifting world of local SEO , AI Overviews , and Google’s evolving search ecosystem . The trio unpacks the seismic shifts happening in local search, AI-generated results, and the new metrics that matter when “clicks” no longer rule. From how Google is leveraging its own ecosystem to dominate AI outputs, to whether schema markup, directories, or social media still matter, this episode serves up unfiltered takes and battle-tested advice for marketers, SEOs, and local business owners alike. 🚨 Top Themes Covered : Google’s AI Overviews : Why AI is rewriting the search interface and what it means for local visibility. Urban vs. Rural Search Results : Why AI tools like ChatGPT might actually outperform Google Maps in lower-density areas. The End of Organic? : Google’s AI results are now 100% GBP (Google Business Profile) driven—with nearly zero room for traditional website links. Reviews Are the New Backlinks : How first- and third-party reviews (especially on platforms like Yelp and TripAdvisor) are now critical ranking factors in AI models. The Fragmented Funnel : TikTok and Instagram are eating the top of the funnel—Google is now the validator, not the discoverer. Metrics Reimagined : Why clicks are increasingly meaningless, and what to track instead—from CRM tie-ins to survey data and outcome-based KPIs. AI’s Role in Product & Strategy : How BirdEye and other platforms are rethinking their offerings to embed AI into every layer—from insights to actions. Old-School SEO vs. AI Optimization : Turns out, best practices haven’t changed much—good local SEO still wins, but it’s more critical than ever to focus on outcomes , not vanity metrics. 💡 Key Takeaways : Local search isn’t dead—it’s evolving. AI is changing the game, but the fundamentals still matter: strong reviews, simple websites, quality listings, and running a great business. Your website still matters , even if it’s not driving direct clicks. It’s a core data source for AI and a validator for customers making high-stakes decisions. Directory presence is back in fashion —especially for verticals like travel, dining, and services. Yelp and TripAdvisor are still powerful in AI outputs. Forget tips and tricks. Stop obsessing over how to game AI results. Focus on real marketing , customer feedback, and operational excellence. AI visibility tracking is a new frontier. Ranking reports may be making a comeback—not for traffic predictions, but for understanding how you show up in AI-generated lists. 📣 Whether you’re an SEO veteran, a SaaS marketer, a multi-location brand, or just trying to figure out where to spend your next marketing dollar, this episode offers tactical wisdom and strategic clarity on where local search is headed—and how to stay ahead. 🎧 Brought to you by GatherUp – our thanks to this episode’s sponsor and a trusted leader in reputation management. Subscribe to The Near Memo for weekly insights at the intersection of search, social, local, and reputation. ▶️ Follow us on: YouTube Apple Podcasts Spotify LinkedIn Have questions or feedback? Drop us a note at mblumenthal@nearmemo.co Subscribe to our newsletters and other content at https://www.nearmedia.co/subscribe/…
1 SEO Tactics from the Frontline: Real User Behavior in AI Overviews - Part 2 of the UX Study Analysis 24:00
Send us a text Welcome to Part 2 of our deep dive into the most revealing SEO and UX research of 2025. In this episode of the Near Memo podcast, Greg Sterling, Kevin Indig, and Eric Van Buskirk break down how users actually interact with AI Overviews on Google—and what that means for your SEO strategy moving forward. 00:55 – “Trust over Traffic: The SEO Paradigm Shift” 02:10 – “SEO as Traffic Cop, Not Traffic Driver” 03:33 – “Reddit, YouTube & Beyond: Tactical SEO Musts” 07:20 – “Google Killed the Small Guys” 09:05 – “Google’s Fear-Driven Strategy” 11:14 – “Redefining SEO Inside the Org” 12:03 – “Click Recession and the Future of Metrics” 13:31 – “Pitching the New SEO to Leadership” 17:17 – “People Don’t Know LSAs Are Ads” 20:22 – “Gen Z, TikTok, and the Platform Migration” 22:23 – “ChatGPT Is the Train—You’re the Station” ▶️ Missed Part 1? Watch it here → https://youtu.be/pjE3MwOLYcg ⸻ 🔥 What’s Inside This Episode: In this second installment, we focus on the tactical and organizational implications of new user behavior patterns revealed through a qualitative usability study. The study recorded and analyzed nearly 30 hours of real-world search behavior, and the findings are reshaping how smart marketers think about organic search, AI, and branding. From “click stagflation” to platform diversification, this episode delivers hard truths and actionable insights. 🧠 Top Insights You’ll Take Away: • SEO isn’t dead—it’s evolved. Traditional traffic metrics are no longer reliable indicators of success. • Trust is now the first filter. Users skim, scroll, and click based on what (and who) they recognize and believe in. • Clicks ≠ Conversions. Welcome to the era of “click stagflation”—less traffic, but stable (or growing) business results. • Google is reacting, not leading. The rise of Reddit, YouTube, and AI Overviews is a defensive move to hold onto users. • Local trust signals matter more than ever. LSAs win clicks because users don’t realize they’re ads—they just trust the stars. • Brand awareness is the new SEO moat. If users don’t know or trust you before they search, you likely won’t earn their click. • SEO must align with social, content, and UX. It’s time for cross-functional “growth teams” that reflect real user journeys. ⸻ 🔗 Links & Resources: 📄 Full transcript of Part 2 → 📄 Part 1: Study methodology + foundational insights → https://youtu.be/pjE3MwOLYcg 🧪 Read the study by Kevin Indig and Eric Van Buskirk → https://www.growth-memo.com/p/the-first-ever-ux-study-of-googles?ref=nearmedia.co 🎙️ More from Near Memo →https://www.youtube.com/playlist?list=PLmqwyOgNILWrALQo5FVdB6zlaEJiVyKS_ ⸻ 💬 What do YOU think? Are you still measuring SEO success with clicks? Have you updated your strategy for AI Overviews and multi-platform journeys? Drop your thoughts or questions below—let’s talk. ⸻ 👍 Like, 💬 Comment, and 🔔 Subscribe to get more straight talk on search, SEO, and local marketing every week. #SEO #AIOverviews #DigitalMarketing #SearchTrends #ContentStrategy #GoogleSearch #UserExperience #NearMemo #KevinIndig #EricVanBuskirk #GregSterling #UXResearch #ChatGPT #TikTokSearch #TrustEconomy Subscribe to our newsletters and other content at https://www.nearmedia.co/subscribe/…
Send us a text 🎙️ Trust Before Clicks: What Real Users Do With Google’s AI Overviews We’ve all seen the headlines: Google’s AI Overviews (AIOs) are changing search forever. But how do real people actually use them? In this episode of The Near Memo , we dive into the first behavioral UX study of Google’s AIOs, conducted by Kevin Indig and Eric Van Buskirk. The results? Totally eye-opening—and a little humbling for SEOs. This wasn’t another clickstream analysis. This was watching users scroll, click (or not), skim, and decide across 8 real-world search tasks. Think local searches, health queries, shopping comparisons—all captured through screen recordings, scroll logs, and detailed annotations. 📊 Here’s What They Found: 1. Clicks Are Not Conversions Only about 1 in 5 “final answers” came from AIOs. Most users finished their journey with traditional organic results, Reddit, YouTube, or maps. Clicking doesn’t always mean trusting—or converting. 2. Trust Comes Before Relevance Users no longer scan the SERP for “the best answer.” They scan for brands they recognize and sources they trust . If they don’t know you, they scroll right past—even if you’re ranked #1. 3. Reviews Are the Ultimate Shortcut In both local and shopping searches, people hunted for review stars. They scrolled back and forth just to find them. The takeaway? Reviews aren’t just helpful—they’re directional beacons in search. 4. Most People Skim AIOs A whopping 86% of users skimmed AIOs. Unless the query was high-risk (think: health or finance), they treated the AI summary like a TL;DR intro and kept scrolling. 5. Risk = Depth The more serious the query, the deeper the engagement. People spent more time reading, clicked more links to fact-check, and acted with more skepticism. 6. AIO Links Are Largely Ignored Those little citation icons in AIOs? Most users didn’t touch them. Even large panels full of links got barely any engagement. Why? Because people didn’t perceive them as useful or actionable. 7. Users Are Skeptical—But Still Satisfied Despite checking citations and bouncing around the page, users still reported high satisfaction with AIOs. Trust is sticky. If something “feels” complete, users stop looking—even if it’s flawed. 8. Google Benefits from the Illusion Kevin and Eric argue that Google has long benefited from the mistaken belief that it’s the whole journey. In reality, search behavior is multi-touch , cross-platform , and often ends somewhere else entirely. 🎯 Final Thought: Trust Is the New CTR If your brand isn’t already in the user’s mind, your perfect answer won’t matter. Clicks are a vanity metric. Final answers are what really count. To win now, SEOs must: Build brand trust before the search starts Be visible across platforms (Reddit, YouTube, forums) Focus on reviews and SERP presence Understand how different search intents drive behavior This is Part One of a two-part conversation. In Part Two, we unpack the strategic takeaways and what marketers should do next. Because in the era of AI Overviews, it’s not about ranking first—it’s about being the last place users need to go. Subscribe to our newsletters and other content at https://www.nearmedia.co/subscribe/…
1 Google's Power Grab: AI Journeys, Monetized Moments, & the End of SEO as We Know It with Cindy Krum 45:44
Send us a text In this thought-provoking episode of the Near Memo podcast, SEO veteran Cindy Krum joins Greg Sterling and Mike Blumenthal to unpack how Google's evolving use of AI, including MUM (Multitask Unified Model), is reshaping the search landscape. Krum explains how Google is moving from keyword- and entity-based indexing to modeling “journeys” that reflect a user’s intent — aligning with Google's long-abandoned concept of “micro-moments” like “I want to know,” “I want to go,” “I want to do,” and “I want to buy.” These journeys are increasingly being monetized across different verticals such as YouTube, Merchant Center, and local results, as Google balances expensive AI integration with ad revenue optimization. The trio also explores the convergence of Google Discover, AI Overviews, and personalized browsing experiences — warning that this personalization could result in unprecedented data tracking and loss of consumer privacy. Krum emphasizes that marketers and SEOs must adapt quickly: diversify traffic sources, optimize across social and non-Google platforms, and consider how Google's motivations (data consolidation and monetization) are shaping an experience that prioritizes corporate interests over user needs. The message is clear — traditional SEO tactics won’t survive the AI-driven tide unless they evolve dramatically. Takeaways Cindy Krum discusses the MUM model and its impact on SEO. Google's monetization strategies are evolving with AI integration. Personalization in search is becoming increasingly important. Marketers need to optimize for user intent and MUM journeys. Informational queries represent a significant portion of search traffic. Diversifying traffic sources is crucial for digital marketers. Branding and social media presence are essential for visibility. The search landscape is changing rapidly due to AI advancements. Marketers should be proactive in adapting to these changes. Understanding user journeys will be key to future SEO strategies. Subscribe to our newsletters and other content at https://www.nearmedia.co/subscribe/…
1 AmpUp Webinar, Yelp’s Antitrust V Google, Google AIO for Local Reviews, ChatGPT Gets Product Search 33:03
Send us a text 00:00 GatherUp's AmpUp Webinar Overview 05:56 Yelp Antitrust Case Insights 13:32 Google Local Review's AI Overviews and Their Impact 26:45 ChatGPT's Shopping Capabilities and Future Directions In this episode, Greg and Mike discuss the upcoming AmpUp 2025 virtual conference with Mel Atia of GatherUp, focusing on local SEO, reputation management, and the impact of AI on digital strategies. They delve into Yelp's antitrust case against Google, exploring the implications for local search and advertising. The conversation also highlights Google's new local AI feature, local brand summaries as well as changing consumer behaviors and the implications of ChatGPT getting into product search. Takeaways AmpUp 2025 is a free virtual conference focused on local SEO and reputation management. The event will feature sessions on AI's impact on digital agencies and local search strategies. Yelp's antitrust case against Google could reshape the local search landscape. Google's dominance in local search raises questions about competition and consumer choice. AI overviews may simplify search but could misalign with user intent. Younger consumers are diversifying their search habits beyond Google. Businesses must manage their online reputation across multiple platforms. Engagement data is crucial for understanding consumer behavior in search. The future of search may involve more personalized and AI-driven experiences. Understanding audience behavior is essential for effective digital marketing. Subscribe to our newsletters and other content at https://www.nearmedia.co/subscribe/…
Send us a text We discuss the latest developments in Google's antitrust trial and the introduction of new AI features in Google Business Profiles. They explore the implications of these changes for local SEO and user experience, as well as the potential future of search in an AI-driven world. The conversation highlights the challenges Google faces in maintaining its market dominance amidst evolving technologies and user expectations. 00:00 Exploring Google's New AI Features 11:17 Antitrust Trial Insights and Google Remedies 24:57 The Future of Search and AI Integration T akeaways Google is introducing AI features to replace the Q & A and People Also Ask. User experience is suffering due to the cluttered interface of Google search results. User experience is suffering due to the cluttered interface of Google search results. The outcome of the antitrust trial could reshape the competitive landscape for Google. AI tools are seen as a threat to Google's traditional search model. The future of search may involve more conversational interfaces. Google's dominance in search is being challenged by emerging technologies. However, Google is the main game in town today but may not be as we transition to new hardware paragigms The integration of AI in search plus new hardwardcould lead to a more efficient user experience. However it is likely to be 5 years out. Will Google and Apple keep their dominant positions? Subscribe to our newsletters and other content at https://www.nearmedia.co/subscribe/…
Send us a text Greg Sterling, Mike Blumenthal, and Sammy Paget of BrightLocal discuss the evolving landscape of consumer reviews, focusing on how consumer behavior has changed over the years, the importance of businesses responding to reviews, and the impact of AI on review management. They explore the future of reviews, the decline in trust, and Google's policies regarding review authenticity, emphasizing the need for businesses to prioritize customer service and engagement. 00:00 Consumer Expectations and Business Responses 02:59 The Importance of Customer Engagement 06:25 Common Mistakes Businesses Make with Reviews 08:24 The Future of Reviews and AI Integration 13:50 Trust and Alternative Sources of Information 17:42 The Role of AI in Review Management 22:43 Google's Trust Report and Review Management 27:27 The Impact of Reviews on Education Institutions 30:49 Final Thoughts on Reviews and Business Practices Takeaways •Consumers expect businesses to respond to all types of reviews. •89% of consumers are likely to use businesses that respond to reviews. •Engagement through review responses can boost a business's reputation. •AI is changing how reviews are summarized and presented to consumers. •Trust in online reviews has declined, leading to alternative sources of information. •Businesses should focus on delivering excellent service to encourage positive reviews. •Google's aggressive removal of reviews aims to restore trust in the platform. •The badge of shame for manipulated reviews may not significantly impact consumer behavior. •Review responses should be thoughtful and engaging to signal business engagement. •Businesses need to view reviews as valuable feedback for improvement. Subscribe to our newsletters and other content at https://www.nearmedia.co/subscribe/…
1 From Stars to Skepticism: How Reviews Evolved & Why Trust Is Declining - Sammy Paget Interview Part1 29:48
Send us a text 01:59 Evolution of Consumer Review Behavior 05:03 Trust in Reviews: A Declining Trend 08:14 The Impact of Fake Reviews and AI 14:18 Alternative Review Platforms and Their Trustworthiness 19:30 Key Findings from the 15-Year Review Study 22:07 Best Practices for Review Solicitation 29:22 Consumer Expectations and Business Responses In this episode, Greg Sterling, Mike Blumenthal, and guest Sammy Paget from BrightLocal dive deep into 15 years of consumer review research trends. Sammy shares insights from BrightLocal’s long-running consumer review survey, highlighting how online reviews have evolved from novelty to necessity in the purchase journey. But as the role of reviews has grown, so has consumer skepticism. The trio discusses the sharp drop in review trust, the increasing sophistication of fake reviews—especially those powered by AI—and the paradox that while people trust reviews less, they still rely on them heavily. They also explore the growing use of alternative platforms like local news, YouTube, TikTok, and Reddit as sources of business recommendations. Plus, they examine generational behavior and cultural differences in review reading habits. Whether you're a local business owner or just fascinated by how we evaluate things online, this segment is packed with context and conversation on how trust and behavior around reviews is shifting—and what that means moving forward. Subscribe to our newsletters and other content at https://www.nearmedia.co/subscribe/…
1 Google’s Euro DMA Headaches, GBP Local Chaos AND Uncharacteristic Google Comms & AI Search Futures 35:39
Send us a text In this milestone 200th episode, the NearMemo crew unpacks Google’s mounting regulatory woes in Europe, including fresh scrutiny under the Digital Markets Act. Mike breaks down a storm of GBP bugs and business suspensions and ponders the fact that Google is actually admitting to them.. Greg steers the convo into the evolving future of search—where AI, chat interfaces, and user expectations are reshaping everything. From legal battles to UI battles, it’s clear: the search landscape is shifting fast. 00:00 Celebrating the 200th Episode (sort of) 01:23 Europe to Google: Play Fair or Pay Up 13:48 Google’s GBP Meltdown: Bugs, Delays & Suspensions—Oh My! And They Admit It! 21:42 The Future of Search: Bing’s Chance, Google’s Dilemma, and the Chat UX Revolution Takeaways David discusses his recent trip to Europe and the implications of the Digital Markets Act (DMA). The DMA aims to create a fairer digital market, particularly regarding Google's self-preferencing practices. There is a lack of awareness among marketers in Europe about the DMA and its potential impact. AI overviews from Google may fall under the DMA's regulations due to their proprietary nature. The conversation highlights the need for businesses to adapt to changes in search interfaces driven by AI. Google's current challenges with Business Profiles are causing significant issues for businesses. Google, in uncharacteristic fashion actually admitted to these problems. Is this a new, more transparent Google or just a temporary change because so much has gone so wrong in such a short time. The hosts discuss the potential for Bing to innovate and capture market share in the evolving search landscape. Marketers should monitor traffic and visibility in AI platforms like ChatGPT and Copilot. The hype around AI in search is significant, but its impact on traffic is still developing. The conversation emphasizes the need for marketers to stay informed and adapt to rapid changes in the digital marketing environment. Subscribe to our newsletters and other content at https://www.nearmedia.co/subscribe/…
1 Surviving the New Google: Suspensions & Appeal Delays, AI Overviews, & the Future of Local Marketing 23:51
Send us a text Greg Sterling and Mike Blumenthal discuss the current state of Google suspensions, the impact of AI overviews on local search traffic, and the evolving landscape of digital marketing strategies. They emphasize the importance of businesses becoming less reliant on Google and exploring alternative marketing channels while navigating the challenges posed by AI and changing search dynamics. Takeaways •Google's traffic dynamics are shifting, impacting everyone. •Suspension isues have been fixed but appeals times for reinstatement have increased significantly. •AI overviews are reducing visibility for organic search results. •Businesses should be cautious when making changes to their listings. •The importance of managing Google Business Profiles is highlighted. •Only a small percentage of businesses actively manage their reviews. •Building a brand independent of Google is crucial for success. •Social media is a primary channel for customer engagement amongst SMBS. •AI traffic is not a substitute for traditional search traffic. •Google's strategy is to retain users by integrating AI into search. 01:36 Update: Google Suspensions/Reverification Fix and Backlog 05:36 The Rise of AI Overviews in Local Search 11:27 Navigating the Future of Google and AI 16:56 Marketing Strategies in a Changing Landscape Subscribe to our newsletters and other content at https://www.nearmedia.co/subscribe/…
Send us a text In this episode, Greg and Mike discuss the recent EU findings regarding Google's non-compliance with the Digital Markets Act (DMA), the implications of algorithm changes leading to increased suspensions and verifications, and the evolving landscape of AI competition, particularly focusing on Google's strategies to retain users amidst rising AI technologies. They also explore the future of local SEO and its unique position in the market. takeaways Google's violation of the DMA highlights ongoing regulatory scrutiny. Suspensions and verifications are increasing, indicating algorithmic changes. AI mode may be sufficient for many users, keeping them within Google's ecosystem. Local SEO is less impacted by AI than generic publishers. Conversions should be the focus for local businesses, not just traffic. 00:00 EU's Preliminary Findings on Google and Apple 08:51 Suspension Verification Algorithm Issues 16:08 AI Competition and Market Dynamics Subscribe to our newsletters and other content at https://www.nearmedia.co/subscribe/…
1 Google GBP Suspensions Update, AI in Local Search, Google Selling Chrome? & Tesla’s Brand Freefall 38:53
Send us a text Buckle up for another Near Memo packed with search drama, AI experiments, and a high-speed Tesla takedown. Mike and Greg dive into Google’s ongoing Business Profile suspensions, unpack the latest AI-driven search changes, and speculate on whether Elon Musk has permanently tanked Tesla’s brand. Plus, a peek at Google’s antitrust battle and what losing Chrome could mean for search dominance. 00:00 The State of Google Business Profile Suspensions 09:39 Trump's DOJ to Force Google to Sell Chrome? 12:26 AI Mode and Local Search 24:59 Tesla's Brand Reputation Crisis The State of Google Business Profile Suspensions: What’s Going On? Google Business Profile suspensions are on the rise, and support is crawling at a snail’s pace. Mike breaks down why small businesses should not touch their listings right now (seriously, don’t even breathe on them). Is this a bug, a crackdown, or just Google losing control of its own algorithm? Google’s Antitrust Battle: Will Chrome Be Sold Off? The DOJ wants Google to offload Chrome as part of its latest antitrust smackdown. Google, of course, thinks that’s a terrible idea. But if the judge agrees, this could shake up search in a big way—especially since Chrome feeds Google a ton of juicy user data. The appeal process will be long, but this could be the biggest change to Google’s search empire in years. AI Mode and Local Search: A Game Changer or a Mess? AI-powered local search is officially here! Greg takes us on a tour of Google's experimental AI Mode , which is serving up completely different local results than the usual search listings. Businesses, buckle up—this could make optimizing for local search way more unpredictable. Is AI Mode the future, or is it just another search rabbit hole? Tesla’s Reputation Crisis: Can the Brand Recover? Tesla's reviews are tanking, and it’s not just because of Elon’s Twitter antics—customers are furious about service and quality issues . But now that Musk has also alienated half his customer base, things are getting worse. Will Tesla pull a Microsoft-style comeback, or is this the beginning of the end? Mike and Greg break it down. Takeaways There has been a dramatic increase in Google Business Profile suspensions since January. Google's support is resource-constrained, leading to delays in addressing suspensions. Businesses should avoid making changes to their Google profiles to prevent further complications. The Department of Justice is pursuing antitrust actions against Google, which could lead to significant changes in the market. AI mode in local search is showing different results compared to traditional search methods. Tesla's brand reputation is suffering due to a combination of service issues and political controversies surrounding Elon Musk. The correlation between Tesla's sales and declining ratings suggests a complex relationship between customer satisfaction and sales performance. Google's algorithm changes may be causing unintended consequences for businesses. The verification process for Google Business Profiles is often seen as irrational and overly rigid. The future of Tesla's brand depends on addressing service issues and the public's perception of Elon Musk. Subscribe to our newsletters and other content at https://www.nearmedia.co/subscribe/…
1 The Rise of GBP Suspensions, Is Google's 5 trillion search number real? New AI Mode IS the Future 31:23
Send us a text 00:00 Overview of Topics 01:07 Increase in Business Suspensions - Resinstatements very slow 06:27 Google's Search Query Insights - Is Google Cooking the Books? 21:03 Google's AI Mode as the Future of Search We discuss the recent increase in suspensions and the delay of reinstatements on Google, the implications of Google's five trillion search queries, and the impact of AI on search. They explore the new AI mode being introduced by Google and how it is the shape the future of search experiences. Takeaways ✓ There has been a significant increase in complaints about Google suspensions. ✓ Google's new one appeal and done process limits reinstatement attempts. ✓ The five trillion search queries reported by Google is a notable figure but hacked. ✓ User behavior is shifting away from Google towards alternative search options. ✓ AI mode represents a significant evolution in Google's search capabilities. ✓ Google is actively trying to retain users amidst growing competition from AI. ✓ Gemini, Google's AI, is still developing and improving rapidly but its still not as good as ChatGPT. ✓ The future of search will likely involve more complex user interactions. ✓ Google is experimenting with various user interface elements to enhance search. ✓ User engagement with AI tools is changing the way queries are formed. titles Subscribe to our newsletters and other content at https://www.nearmedia.co/subscribe/…
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