Is Your Business Optimized For AI Search Engines?

Let’s make this clear - Google is still the king of local search results, but did you know that new AI-powered search engines like ChatGPT, Meta, Bing, and Brave are starting to add local search results? Now you can just ask ChatGPT for recommendations on the best business in your area and BAM - it will spit out a list of businesses and information about each one. You might be wondering where AI is getting that info from, and you’re in luck since we now know! They are currently sourcing business information from various directories and search platforms like Yelp, Yellow Pages, and TripAdvisor! So, whether you thought citation management was no longer important (or you had never heard of it before!), citations appear to be gaining importance once again, and here’s what you need to know about it.

Google’s AI Features That Matter For Your Business

We’ve got some big news to share this week, thanks to Google’s launch of several new AI features related to your Google Business Profile! I’ll break them down so you know how you can take advantage of these changes to get more customers from Google Maps! Here’s the deal: Google users can now ask Gemini a question about your business (separate from Q&A), and Gemini will use the info it has on your business to provide them with an answer. You now NEED your business to be loved by Gemini AI to get the most out of your GMB in the future, and here’s how to do it!

Google Increases the Importance of GMB in New Update

Google recently made a change that emphasizes just how important your GMB is. Now, if you want to run Local Service Ads, you must have a verified GBP. This shift proves that Google views the GMB as the go-to source for local business information, affecting not just ads but the brand new AI-generated search results too. These recent updates put everyone on notice - if your GMB isn’t fully optimized you have to get caught up now!

Google’s New Way to Learn About Your Business

Google has a new way to learn about your business that you’re going to have to optimize your profile for… social media! Google now crawls social media platforms to gather more info about your business. If you’ve been looking for a way to gain an edge over your competition, this is another tool for your belt!

The 5 Best Lead Magnets for Agencies

Discover 5 brilliant lead magnets for marketing agencies to boost leads, engage audiences, and enhance brand authority effectively.

Mastering White Label Google My Business Management

Master White label Google My Business management for better SEO, brand visibility, and customer engagement with Merchynt's AI-powered solutions.

Is Your GMB Optimized For This New Update?

Google recently rolled out a new feature that makes reviews and photos even more valuable for your business. Now, when users scroll through photos on a Google Business Profile, reviews and menu descriptions appear beneath those images.

The Complete Guide to Google My Business Management Software

This comprehensive guide will dive deep into everything you need to know about leveraging AI and automation and the best Google My Business management software to skyrocket your local search rankings, boost your online visibility, and outshine your competitors.

Is Your GBP Ready for Fall?

Fall is officially kicking off this Sunday, and that means it's the perfect time to launch a Fall Promotion on your Google Business Profile (GMB)! Why? Because Google isn’t just looking at keywords and reviews to determine your ranking – they also value profiles that show consistent activity. When you update your GMB with fresh offers, it signals to Google that your business is active and relevant, which can help boost your ranking in local search results.

Google Told Us How To Handle Bad Reviews

We get it—negative reviews can feel like a punch to the gut. But here’s the thing: not all negative feedback reflects poor business practices. Sometimes, customers have mismatched expectations or encounter an issue beyond your control. The good news? Google told us how to address these reviews the right way in a recent email to help your reputation and show future customers that you truly care.

Google Shared Their Ranking Secrets With Us!

Ever wondered how Google decides which businesses show up first when someone nearby searches for what you offer? Well, Google recently spilled the beans on what influences your local search rankings, and we're here to break it down for you.

How To Not Get Your Google Business Profile Suspended

Does The New FTC Reviews Policy Impact Your Business?

The FTC just dropped a new rule that harshly cracks down on, let’s call it, “manipulated” reviews and testimonials. Manipulated reviews can now lead to serious penalties, so it’s more important than ever to ensure your reviews are 100% authentic.

Google is Leaning Into AI for Business Profiles

Google Maps Scam: How Competitors Can Steal Your Ranking

Have you heard about the latest sneaky scam targeting Google Business Profiles?