Let’s get real—managing multiple Google Business Profile (GBP) listings in 2024 is no walk in the park. If you’re juggling dozens or even hundreds of locations, you know the pain points: verification nightmares, inconsistent data, and the constant fear of losing control over your listings. But don’t worry, you’re not alone.
In the latest episode of Adventures in Local Marketing, Claire Carlile sits down with David Mihm of Near Media to dissect the state of GBP management for multi-location businesses. They dive into the nitty-gritty of what’s working, what’s not, and how you can stay ahead of the curve in the ever-evolving world of local SEO.
Bulk Verification: A Never-Ending Headache
If you’ve ever tried to get bulk verification for a large enterprise, you know it’s like pulling teeth. David Mihm doesn’t sugarcoat it: “Bulk verification can be a nightmare for enterprise businesses. The process is slow, clunky, and often feels like it’s designed to trip you up.” The struggle is real, but knowing the hurdles ahead of time can help you plan better and avoid common pitfalls.
Bridging the Gap: HQ vs. Branch-Level SEO
Managing local SEO across multiple locations isn’t just about setting up listings and walking away. It’s a delicate balance between what happens at HQ and what’s implemented on the ground. David shares a two-level training framework that’s been effective for enterprise businesses: “You need to empower your branch managers with the basics of local SEO, but HQ has to maintain oversight to ensure brand consistency and adherence to best practices.”
Why You Need Third-Party Vendors
Let’s be honest—Google isn’t exactly forthcoming about the importance of local SEO. That’s where third-party vendors come in. David emphasizes, “Third-party vendors are crucial in highlighting the importance of local SEO to businesses that might not fully understand its impact.” These vendors don’t just provide tools; they educate, train, and often act as a bridge between the business and Google’s ever-changing landscape.
What’s Next for Schema and GBP Posts?
Schema and GBP Posts are evolving, and David offers a glimpse into the future: “We’re expecting some big changes in how Google handles schema, especially as they roll out more features in Search Generative Experience (SGE). It’s not just about marking up your content anymore; it’s about how that data feeds into Google’s broader AI-driven initiatives.”
As for GBP Posts, they’re not going away anytime soon, but their role might shift. “Expect Google to integrate more AI-driven content suggestions and automated posting options,” David predicts.
SGE: The Next Big Thing?
Speaking of SGE, when should we expect it? David hints that Google is gearing up for a big launch soon. “SGE is likely to change the game, especially for multi-location businesses. The way search results are presented will shift, and those who adapt quickly will have a significant advantage.”
In a digital world where visibility is everything, GMB Fox ensures your business isn’t just online—it’s the first choice customers make. Let us handle the complexities of digital marketing, so you can focus on what truly matters: growing your business.
コメント