Google finally did something right for local businesses

and more local SEO stuff from last week

February 24, 2025

Hi,

Wow, there are 40,000 of you now. Thank you so much for tuning in every week, everyone!

Now, let’s yap about local SEO 👇️

1. The easiest way to 10x your reviews

Pick up the phone and just ask!

There are many ways to ask customers for reviews, but the most overlooked method is simply picking up the phone and calling them.

Here’s why asking for reviews by phone is such a brilliant review strategy 👇

  • You get to "check the vibe" before asking for the review. If the customer isn't happy, don't ask for a review.

  • You get to collect valuable customer feedback. Customers aren't usually inclined to proactively give negative feedback. They'll just continue with their life and never use your business again. But when they are asked directly, they may spill the tea, and you can use this to identify problems and improve your business.

  • When asked for a review verbally, a positive response creates a sense of commitment, making the client much more likely to follow through.

  • Most businesses don’t do this, making it a great opportunity for your business to stand out and make your request more memorable.

  • You get to remind the customer on key aspects of their experience that they might highlight in their review. Including relevant keywords in reviews can improve conversions, as potential customers often browse or search for specific services and feedback before making a decision.

💡 Pro tip: You can also give the customer a little extra motivation to leave a review. For example, you might say that reviews help small local businesses stand out. Or you can make it more personal by mentioning, "The team who worked on your service really appreciates positive feedback.”

Here's a simple script you can copy, edit, and use for your business 👇

Get this in PDF format on LinkedIn.

2. Should you talk in your GBP verification video?

This is a great question I got on our YouTube channel. I have wondered about this as well.

Google doesn’t explicitly say whether you should talk or stay silent. So, I reached out to some of the best local SEO experts, and they all agreed: Google does NOT want you to talk during your GBP verification video.

Plus, Amy Toman, a Diamond Product Expert at Google, recently shared in the GBP Help Forum that narrating your video could lead to it being rejected.

To be safe, follow these rules when filming your verification video:

  • Do NOT talk.

  • Do NOT show anyone’s face.

Swipe through this carousel on Instagram.

3. Google finally did something right for local businesses

They will now tell you now why your Google video verification failed. Good job, Google 😃

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Darren