??Local Google Ads / Website Audit Checklist / Reddit Forums / PPC Negative Keywords

I'm back with another edition of?Marketing Minute, where you can explore this week's best handpicked Local SEO and ads insights and news.

- Justin @YEAH! Local

Ready to kickstart another week with the freshest Local SEO and Ads news? Pour that coffee, and let's dive into what's been brewing!

Local SEO Trends & Tactics:

• Discovery to Conversions: Focusing on discovery, relevancy, experience, engagement, and conversions is pivotal. Crafting strategies around these five pillars can significantly uplift your local presence and leads.
• Google's Strong Arm on Listings: Google's recent mandate for third-party providers to offer merchants a straightforward opt-out from Business Profiles is a game-changer. It's a step towards more control and cleaner listings for businesses.
• Spotlight on Fake Reviews: Google's crackdown on fake reviews has escalated, with a 45% increase in fake review take-downs reported. This initiative aims to foster trust and authenticity in local search results.
• Nearby Events and Deals Feature: A fresh local search feature showcases nearby businesses' promotions and events. This is a golden opportunity for businesses to increase visibility and drive foot traffic.

Local Ads Innovations:

• Google Ads' QR Call Extensions: The new call us extensions with QR scan-to-call feature by Google Ads can revolutionize how customers interact with ads, enhancing lead generation efforts. I haven't seen this rolled out on all accounts yet.

Pro Tips:

• Photo-First Google Maps Listings: The shift to a photo-first layout in search results emphasizes the importance of high-quality, compelling images for businesses. An impactful photo can make your listing stand out and attract more clicks.

SEO & Ads Strategy:

• Beyond Google: Diversifying your SEO efforts beyond Google's ecosystem can mitigate risks associated with reliance on a single platform. Exploring alternatives can uncover untapped potential.
• Content Creation & AI: With AI's rise, mastering high-quality, AI-enhanced content creation is crucial. It drives engagement and establishes authority in your niche.

Stay curious and proactive, and remember that being informed is your best strategy in the dynamic world of local SEO and ads.

3 Tricks to Localize Your Google Ads (With Examples!)

Google Ads has several features that any local business should take advantage of to make their ads stand out in local searches.

Learn More

Website Audit Checklist (with AI Prompts)

With Pro Tips and AI Prompts, you'll gain expert insights and personalized assistance to optimize your website.

Learn More

Google Responds To Criticism Over Forums At Top Of Search Results

Google's forum carousel sparks debate, raising concerns about misinformation and prompting a response from the company.

Learn More

Negative keywords in paid search: 6 strategies for effective implementation

Learn hands-off vs. aggressive approaches, platform variations and best practices to improve ad relevance with negative keywords.

Learn More

AND...Whenever you're ready...here's how we can help you land more and better local clients, customers, or patients:

15-Min Discovery Call with Justin:?In 15 minutes, you'll get personalized insights, a no-pressure digital assessment of your business, and explore potential strategies to increase qualified leads, phone calls, & appointments.?Book your 15-min discovery call now.

Free Local SEO Performance Audit:?A complete overview of your Local SEO performance in seconds.?Get your FREE audit now.