Podcasts about digital marketing news

Drop us a message!Great content doesn't happen by accident, it's built with clear intent, structured around the customer journey, and measured against what actually matters.In this episode of Social In 10, we're joined by Catherine Jakob, Creative Manager at Giraffe Social, to talk about building content strategies that go beyond engagement and drive real, measurable conversions. Catherine shares how to intentionally structure content to support every stage of the customer journey, the processes marketers can use to define clear intent behind every piece of content they create, and how to evaluate performance in a way that reveals genuine impact — not just short-term attention.If you've ever felt like your content is busy but not effective, this episode will give you the framework to change that.Want to be featured on the pod? Drop us a voice note on Instagram at @GiraffeSM.About Giraffe Social's Social in 10 PodcastGiraffe Social is a multi-disciplined digital marketing agency specialising in social media marketing based on the South Coast of the United Kingdom. We work with a wide range of industries, spanning from Fintech and L&D, to Beauty and Retail.Social in 10 is a weekly podcast about all things digital marketing. We discuss all the things social media managers want to know, including the latest platform updates, emerging trends, campaign ideas, and best practices to help you stay ahead of the curve. Whether you're managing multiple clients or growing your brand in-house, each episode is packed with actionable insights… all delivered in under ten minutes.Hosted by the Giraffe Social team, this is your fast, fun, no-fluff guide to making sense of social. New episodes every week, so tune in and level up your marketing game!

Drop us a message!Your LinkedIn profile is often the first thing a potential client sees, and most people are getting it wrong.In this episode of Social In 10, we're joined by Hristo Butchvarov, Freelance LinkedIn Profile Designer, to unpack the profile mistakes that quietly cost B2B founders and consultants credibility and opportunities every day.Hristo shares how to balance personal branding with clear commercial intent, which profile sections have the biggest impact on conversion, and how to structure them to move someone from a profile view to a booked call. He also offers practical advice for professionals who are excellent at what they do but struggle to make their LinkedIn profile reflect that expertise.Want to be featured on the pod? Drop us a voice note on Instagram at @GiraffeSM.About Giraffe Social's Social in 10 PodcastGiraffe Social is a multi-disciplined digital marketing agency specialising in social media marketing based on the South Coast of the United Kingdom. We work with a wide range of industries, spanning from Fintech and L&D, to Beauty and Retail.Social in 10 is a weekly podcast about all things digital marketing. We discuss all the things social media managers want to know, including the latest platform updates, emerging trends, campaign ideas, and best practices to help you stay ahead of the curve. Whether you're managing multiple clients or growing your brand in-house, each episode is packed with actionable insights… all delivered in under ten minutes.Hosted by the Giraffe Social team, this is your fast, fun, no-fluff guide to making sense of social. New episodes every week, so tune in and level up your marketing game!

Drop us a message!Fintech is one of the toughest industries to stand out in; regulated, competitive, and constantly innovating. In this episode, Luke McGrath, Head of Marketing at True Potential, joins us to break down what it really takes to build a brand that doesn't just blend into the noise.We also speak to Catherine, exploring why attention spans aren't as short as marketers think, and how to determine the ideal video length for social platforms in 2025.Want to be featured on the pod? Drop us a voice note on Instagram at @GiraffeSM.About Giraffe Social's Social in 10 PodcastGiraffe Social is a multi-disciplined digital marketing agency specialising in social media marketing based on the South Coast of the United Kingdom. We work with a wide range of industries, spanning from Fintech and L&D, to Beauty and Retail.Social in 10 is a weekly podcast about all things digital marketing. We discuss all the things social media managers want to know, including the latest platform updates, emerging trends, campaign ideas, and best practices to help you stay ahead of the curve. Whether you're managing multiple clients or growing your brand in-house, each episode is packed with actionable insights… all delivered in under ten minutes.Hosted by the Giraffe Social team, this is your fast, fun, no-fluff guide to making sense of social. New episodes every week, so tune in and level up your marketing game!

Drop us a message!B2B social media done right is one of the most powerful commercial tools a brand has… but most get it wrong.In this episode of Social In 10, we're joined by Sarah Stephenson, Social Media Director at tmp, to explore what high-performing B2B social really looks like. Sarah shares how to build a global social media function that delivers consistent commercial impact, what separates a winning LinkedIn paid strategy from one that just drives impressions, and what genuine thought leadership looks like on LinkedIn today.Want to be featured on the pod? Drop us a voice note on Instagram at @GiraffeSM.About Giraffe Social's Social in 10 PodcastGiraffe Social is a multi-disciplined digital marketing agency specialising in social media marketing based on the South Coast of the United Kingdom. We work with a wide range of industries, spanning from Fintech and L&D, to Beauty and Retail.Social in 10 is a weekly podcast about all things digital marketing. We discuss all the things social media managers want to know, including the latest platform updates, emerging trends, campaign ideas, and best practices to help you stay ahead of the curve. Whether you're managing multiple clients or growing your brand in-house, each episode is packed with actionable insights… all delivered in under ten minutes.Hosted by the Giraffe Social team, this is your fast, fun, no-fluff guide to making sense of social. New episodes every week, so tune in and level up your marketing game!

Drop us a message!Brand partnerships in the creator economy aren't just about follower counts, they're about fit, trust, and long-term credibility. Get it wrong, and you risk the one thing that makes a creator valuable in the first place: their audience's trust.In this episode of Social In 10, we sit down with Sammy Parker, Brand Partnerships Lead at Calfreezy - one of the UK's largest YouTubers - to pull back the curtain on how brand deals really work at scale.Sammy shares how social media now plays a central role in securing commercially meaningful partnerships, how he evaluates whether a brand is genuinely the right fit rather than just financially attractive, and how he navigates the challenge of balancing brand objectives with audience trust across content that spans food, sport, and travel.Plus, Paid Media Manager Ben Gould from the Giraffe Social team joins us to discuss how he tackles a challenge every performance marketer faces: how to approach creative testing for paid ads to improve performance over time. Because in paid social, it's increasingly creative variation that separates campaigns that scale from those that stall.Want to be featured on the pod? Drop us a voice note on Instagram at @GiraffeSM.About Giraffe Social's Social in 10 PodcastGiraffe Social is a multi-disciplined digital marketing agency specialising in social media marketing based on the South Coast of the United Kingdom. We work with a wide range of industries, spanning from Fintech and L&D, to Beauty and Retail.Social in 10 is a weekly podcast about all things digital marketing. We discuss all the things social media managers want to know, including the latest platform updates, emerging trends, campaign ideas, and best practices to help you stay ahead of the curve. Whether you're managing multiple clients or growing your brand in-house, each episode is packed with actionable insights… all delivered in under ten minutes.Hosted by the Giraffe Social team, this is your fast, fun, no-fluff guide to making sense of social. New episodes every week, so tune in and level up your marketing game!

Drop us a message!Running a marketing agency means constantly juggling people, projects, and profitability. And without the right systems in place, something always gives.In this episode of Social In 10, we're joined by Brianna Norman, People & Operations Manager at Giraffe Social, for an honest look at what it takes to run a well-functioning agency from the inside out. Brianna shares how agencies should approach resourcing to strike the right balance between team wellbeing, delivery quality, and commercial sustainability… and why getting this balance wrong is one of the most common reasons agencies struggle to scale.e dig into what effective people management really looks like in a modern marketing agency, how leaders can retain and develop talent in an industry known for high turnover, and how to prioritise work and opportunities in a way that supports sustainable growth without pushing teams to breaking point.If you run an agency, work in one, or are thinking about building one, this is the episode you didn't know you needed.Want to be featured on the pod? Drop us a voice note on Instagram at @GiraffeSM.About Giraffe Social's Social in 10 PodcastGiraffe Social is a multi-disciplined digital marketing agency specialising in social media marketing based on the South Coast of the United Kingdom. We work with a wide range of industries, spanning from Fintech and L&D, to Beauty and Retail.Social in 10 is a weekly podcast about all things digital marketing. We discuss all the things social media managers want to know, including the latest platform updates, emerging trends, campaign ideas, and best practices to help you stay ahead of the curve. Whether you're managing multiple clients or growing your brand in-house, each episode is packed with actionable insights… all delivered in under ten minutes.Hosted by the Giraffe Social team, this is your fast, fun, no-fluff guide to making sense of social. New episodes every week, so tune in and level up your marketing game!

Drop us a message!Taking a beloved British brand across the Atlantic is no small feat, especially when your brand's identity, heritage, and tone of voice are core to everything you do.In this episode of Social In 10, we sit down with Grace Noice, Social Media Manager at Hotel Chocolat, to explore what it really takes to launch an established brand in a new market. Grace shares the biggest challenges of introducing a heritage brand to a US audience that may have little to no awareness of it, how she balances staying true to Hotel Chocolat's brand identity while adapting content, tone, and cultural references for American consumers, and what she's learned about translating brand storytelling across cultures without losing what makes the brand disctinct.We also explore the role social media plays in building both awareness and emotional connection from day one when entering a new country, and why getting that balance right is critical for long-term brand equity.Plus, Social Media Manager Lucy Torrance from the Giraffe Social team joins us for the news segment, where we tackle one of the most debated topics in marketing: how to effectively balance brand building with performance-driven campaigns, and why the strongest strategies integrate both rather than treating them as separate disciplines.You can contact Grace directly by emailing grace.noice@hotelchocolat.com, as well as follow Hotel Chocolat on Instagram, Facebook, and TikTok at @hotelchocolatusa. Want to be featured on the pod? Drop us a voice note on Instagram at @GiraffeSM.About Giraffe Social's Social in 10 PodcastGiraffe Social is a multi-disciplined digital marketing agency specialising in social media marketing based on the South Coast of the United Kingdom. We work with a wide range of industries, spanning from Fintech and L&D, to Beauty and Retail.Social in 10 is a weekly podcast about all things digital marketing. We discuss all the things social media managers want to know, including the latest platform updates, emerging trends, campaign ideas, and best practices to help you stay ahead of the curve. Whether you're managing multiple clients or growing your brand in-house, each episode is packed with actionable insights… all delivered in under ten minutes.Hosted by the Giraffe Social team, this is your fast, fun, no-fluff guide to making sense of social. New episodes every week, so tune in and level up your marketing game!

Drop us a message!In this week's REWIND episode, we're talking all things user-generated content and influencer marketing, joined by special guests Diana Bell-Heather, Creative Copy Manager for Next.Want to be featured on the pod? Drop us a voice note on Instagram at @GiraffeSM.About Giraffe Social's Social in 10 PodcastGiraffe Social is a multi-disciplined digital marketing agency specialising in social media marketing based on the South Coast of the United Kingdom. We work with a wide range of industries, spanning from Fintech and L&D, to Beauty and Retail.Social in 10 is a weekly podcast about all things digital marketing. We discuss all the things social media managers want to know, including the latest platform updates, emerging trends, campaign ideas, and best practices to help you stay ahead of the curve. Whether you're managing multiple clients or growing your brand in-house, each episode is packed with actionable insights… all delivered in under ten minutes.Hosted by the Giraffe Social team, this is your fast, fun, no-fluff guide to making sense of social. New episodes every week, so tune in and level up your marketing game!

Drop us a message!In this episode, Phil Treagus-Evans, Co-Founder and CEO of Giraffe Social, explores how to align social media campaigns with real customer intent rather than surface-level engagement metrics.We break down how to map content to different stages of the customer journey, ensuring your messaging supports awareness, consideration, and conversion without feeling disconnected or overly sales-driven.Phil also shares how marketers can combine performance data with human-first marketing principles, using insights and analytics to inform campaigns that resonate on a human level while still delivering measurable business results.Want to be featured on the pod? Drop us a voice note on Instagram at @GiraffeSM.About Giraffe Social's Social in 10 PodcastGiraffe Social is a multi-disciplined digital marketing agency specialising in social media marketing based on the South Coast of the United Kingdom. We work with a wide range of industries, spanning from Fintech and L&D, to Beauty and Retail.Social in 10 is a weekly podcast about all things digital marketing. We discuss all the things social media managers want to know, including the latest platform updates, emerging trends, campaign ideas, and best practices to help you stay ahead of the curve. Whether you're managing multiple clients or growing your brand in-house, each episode is packed with actionable insights… all delivered in under ten minutes.Hosted by the Giraffe Social team, this is your fast, fun, no-fluff guide to making sense of social. New episodes every week, so tune in and level up your marketing game!

Drop us a message!In this episode, Savanna Simmank, Marketing Specialist at Cisco, explores how marketers can transform raw data and analytics into narratives that actually influence behaviour, not just dashboards that get glanced at and forgotten.Plus, we're talking to Nikki Saltarius, Social Media Specialist at Giraffe Social, to get her thoughts on how marketing success is becoming more nonlinear as audiences engage across multiple platforms and formats.Want to be featured on the pod? Drop us a voice note on Instagram at @GiraffeSM.About Giraffe Social's Social in 10 PodcastGiraffe Social is a multi-disciplined digital marketing agency specialising in social media marketing based on the South Coast of the United Kingdom. We work with a wide range of industries, spanning from Fintech and L&D, to Beauty and Retail.Social in 10 is a weekly podcast about all things digital marketing. We discuss all the things social media managers want to know, including the latest platform updates, emerging trends, campaign ideas, and best practices to help you stay ahead of the curve. Whether you're managing multiple clients or growing your brand in-house, each episode is packed with actionable insights… all delivered in under ten minutes.Hosted by the Giraffe Social team, this is your fast, fun, no-fluff guide to making sense of social. New episodes every week, so tune in and level up your marketing game!

Drop us a message!In this episode, Marisa Scullion, Head of Marketing at Angel Investment Network, explains how marketing can bridge the gap between founders and investors. We explore how storytelling, positioning, and brand visibility help both sides recognise the value in each other's ideas and opportunities.Plus, we also speak to Elena Nikiforova, Social Media Manager at Giraffe Social, to get her thoughts on why social media success is shifting from reach to conversation and community.Want to be featured on the pod? Drop us a voice note on Instagram at @GiraffeSM.About Giraffe Social's Social in 10 PodcastGiraffe Social is a multi-disciplined digital marketing agency specialising in social media marketing based on the South Coast of the United Kingdom. We work with a wide range of industries, spanning from Fintech and L&D, to Beauty and Retail.Social in 10 is a weekly podcast about all things digital marketing. We discuss all the things social media managers want to know, including the latest platform updates, emerging trends, campaign ideas, and best practices to help you stay ahead of the curve. Whether you're managing multiple clients or growing your brand in-house, each episode is packed with actionable insights… all delivered in under ten minutes.Hosted by the Giraffe Social team, this is your fast, fun, no-fluff guide to making sense of social. New episodes every week, so tune in and level up your marketing game!

Drop us a message!In this episode, Rob Bartlett, Head of Marketing at YTL Developments, explains how to cut through overwhelming digital marketing metrics and focus on the KPIs that truly align with campaign objectives.We explore the most common mismatch between campaign goals and reported metrics, and why many teams still measure everything instead of what matters. Rob shares how objective-led KPIs reshape a team's understanding of the marketing funnel, customer journey, and commercial impact.Plus, we're also speaking to Phil Treagus-Evans, CEO at Giraffe Social, as he breaks down what human-first marketing actually means in practice. As audiences grow more sceptical, how can brands design experiences that feel considerate rather than extractive?Want to be featured on the pod? Drop us a voice note on Instagram at @GiraffeSM.About Giraffe Social's Social in 10 PodcastGiraffe Social is a multi-disciplined digital marketing agency specialising in social media marketing based on the South Coast of the United Kingdom. We work with a wide range of industries, spanning from Fintech and L&D, to Beauty and Retail.Social in 10 is a weekly podcast about all things digital marketing. We discuss all the things social media managers want to know, including the latest platform updates, emerging trends, campaign ideas, and best practices to help you stay ahead of the curve. Whether you're managing multiple clients or growing your brand in-house, each episode is packed with actionable insights… all delivered in under ten minutes.Hosted by the Giraffe Social team, this is your fast, fun, no-fluff guide to making sense of social. New episodes every week, so tune in and level up your marketing game!

Drop us a message!In this episode, Omer Nisar, Founder of Between Spaces, shares what it really takes to scale DTC brands beyond short-term wins. We explore how to balance cultural relevance and performance marketing, turning brand ideas into scalable revenue engines.Omer reflects on lessons from building and scaling his own direct-to-consumer brands, and how full-funnel growth marketing has evolved as paid social moved from experimentation to a core acquisition channel. We also discuss how brands can look beyond ROAS and identify the real signals of long-term customer value and sustainable growth.Plus, we're also speaking to Holly Fairhall, Social Media Executive at Giraffe Social, to discuss why consistency beats virality when building a personal brand or company audience.Want to be featured on the pod? Drop us a voice note on Instagram at @GiraffeSM.About Giraffe Social's Social in 10 PodcastGiraffe Social is a multi-disciplined digital marketing agency specialising in social media marketing based on the South Coast of the United Kingdom. We work with a wide range of industries, spanning from Fintech and L&D, to Beauty and Retail.Social in 10 is a weekly podcast about all things digital marketing. We discuss all the things social media managers want to know, including the latest platform updates, emerging trends, campaign ideas, and best practices to help you stay ahead of the curve. Whether you're managing multiple clients or growing your brand in-house, each episode is packed with actionable insights… all delivered in under ten minutes.Hosted by the Giraffe Social team, this is your fast, fun, no-fluff guide to making sense of social. New episodes every week, so tune in and level up your marketing game!

Drop us a message!In this episode, Emily Mitchell, Strategic Marketing Architect, explains why so many organisations struggle to move from channel-led activity to true integrated marketing strategy. We unpack the structural and behavioural blockers that keep teams stuck in silos.Emily shares how to balance human-first marketing with short-term performance pressure, especially when acquisition metrics dominate decision-making. We also explore common disconnects between brand strategy, CRM execution, and full-funnel demand generation — and what it really takes to align them.If you're transforming a marketing operating model, Emily outlines the signals that show a team has genuinely shifted to customer-first thinking, not just adopted new language.Plus, we're speaking to Kane Lodge, CFO at Giraffe Social, to get his thoughts on the financial realities behind agency growth. Beyond revenue, we explore the importance of profit margins, utilisation rates, and cost control, and why these metrics matter more than many leaders realise.Want to be featured on the pod? Drop us a voice note on Instagram at @GiraffeSM. About Giraffe Social's Social in 10 Podcast Giraffe Social is a multi-disciplined digital marketing agency specialising in social media marketing based on the South Coast of the United Kingdom. We work with a wide range of industries, spanning from Fintech and L&D, to Beauty and Retail. Social in 10 is a weekly podcast about all things digital marketing. We discuss all the things social media managers want to know, including the latest platform updates, emerging trends, campaign ideas, and best practices to help you stay ahead of the curve. Whether you're managing multiple clients or growing your brand in-house, each episode is packed with actionable insights… all delivered in under ten minutes. Hosted by the Giraffe Social team, this is your fast, fun, no-fluff guide to making sense of social. New episodes every week, so tune in and level up your marketing game!

Drop us a message!In this episode, Steve Wilcockson, Technical Product Marketing Manager at Quantexa, shares lessons from 30 years in enterprise tech marketing. We explore how to translate abstract, data-heavy technology into clear real-world value that resonates with buyers.Steve reflects on how digital marketing and social media have evolved in B2B tech, and how they now co-exist with (and sometimes replace) traditional enterprise sales models.Plus, we're speaking to Lucy Torrance, Paid Media Manager at Giraffe Social, to get her thoughts on why having a clear point of view is essential in crowded digital spaces.Want to be featured on the pod? Drop us a voice note on Instagram at @GiraffeSM. About Giraffe Social's Social in 10 Podcast Giraffe Social is a multi-disciplined digital marketing agency specialising in social media marketing based on the South Coast of the United Kingdom. We work with a wide range of industries, spanning from Fintech and L&D, to Beauty and Retail. Social in 10 is a weekly podcast about all things digital marketing. We discuss all the things social media managers want to know, including the latest platform updates, emerging trends, campaign ideas, and best practices to help you stay ahead of the curve. Whether you're managing multiple clients or growing your brand in-house, each episode is packed with actionable insights… all delivered in under ten minutes. Hosted by the Giraffe Social team, this is your fast, fun, no-fluff guide to making sense of social. New episodes every week, so tune in and level up your marketing game!

Drop us a message!Hey guys and welcome to Social In 10, your Monday morning ritual full of digital marketing insights to go with your coffee, brought to you by the team here at Giraffe Social with a range of other industry experts.In this episode, James Story, Content Marketing Manager at Ten10 Group, shares how to market complex topics like agentic AI, intelligent automation, and enterprise tech without overwhelming your audience. We explore how to judge the right level of technical depth so content actually drives understanding, trust, and action.James breaks down how to maintain a consistent B2B content narrative across SEO, LinkedIn, webinars, and sales enablement, and why coherence matters more than channel tactics when moving from awareness to lead generation. We also discuss what really drives successful B2B LinkedIn growth, beyond posting frequency or chasing trends.Plus, we're also speaking to Lizzie Linford, Paid Media Manager at Giraffe Social, to get her thoughts on why empathy-led content performs better long-term, and how marketers can intentionally build audience understanding into content planning and strategy from day one.Want to be featured on the pod? Drop us a voice note on Instagram at @GiraffeSM. About Giraffe Social's Social in 10 Podcast Giraffe Social is a multi-disciplined digital marketing agency specialising in social media marketing based on the South Coast of the United Kingdom. We work with a wide range of industries, spanning from Fintech and L&D, to Beauty and Retail. Social in 10 is a weekly podcast about all things digital marketing. We discuss all the things social media managers want to know, including the latest platform updates, emerging trends, campaign ideas, and best practices to help you stay ahead of the curve. Whether you're managing multiple clients or growing your brand in-house, each episode is packed with actionable insights… all delivered in under ten minutes. Hosted by the Giraffe Social team, this is your fast, fun, no-fluff guide to making sense of social. New episodes every week, so tune in and level up your marketing game!

Drop us a message!Hey guys and welcome to Social In 10, your Monday morning ritual full of digital marketing insights to go with your coffee, brought to you by the team here at Giraffe Social with a range of other industry experts.In this episode, we're joined by Giles Tongue, Vice President of Marketing at Bango, to break down why subscription bundles outperform single-product offers for both acquisition and retention, and where brands most often get bundling wrong.Giles explores how partnership-led growth reshapes the role of marketing, especially when distribution, ecosystems, and platforms matter as much as demand creation. We dig into what it really takes to define a new category like Super Bundling, from product clarity to narrative and commercial proof.Plus, we're also speaking to Brianna Norman from Giraffe Social to get her thoughts on personal branding for in-house marketers. Learn how to build a visible, credible point of view online—without crossing professional boundaries or clashing with your employer.Want to be featured on the pod? Drop us a voice note on Instagram at @GiraffeSM. About Giraffe Social's Social in 10 Podcast Giraffe Social is a multi-disciplined digital marketing agency specialising in social media marketing based on the South Coast of the United Kingdom. We work with a wide range of industries, spanning from Fintech and L&D, to Beauty and Retail. Social in 10 is a weekly podcast about all things digital marketing. We discuss all the things social media managers want to know, including the latest platform updates, emerging trends, campaign ideas, and best practices to help you stay ahead of the curve. Whether you're managing multiple clients or growing your brand in-house, each episode is packed with actionable insights… all delivered in under ten minutes. Hosted by the Giraffe Social team, this is your fast, fun, no-fluff guide to making sense of social. New episodes every week, so tune in and level up your marketing game!

Drop us a message!In this episode, we're joined by Sharon Gwati, Demand Generation Manager at Agilio Software, to explore how data storytelling can transform the way marketers design and optimise customer journeys. Drawing on insights from her BrightonSEO talk, Sharon explains how principles from hip hop, rhythm, and flow can help marketers rethink how owned data is structured and used.We unpack the most common mistakes brands make with owned data, why dashboards alone don't create clarity, and how narrative thinking leads to smoother, higher-converting SaaS customer journeys. Sharon also shares lessons from working with global brands and fast-moving SaaS teams, revealing how data can genuinely shape customer behaviour when used with intent.Plus, we're also speaking to Michelle Jay, Head of Social at Giraffe Social, to get her thoughts on why trust remains one of the most powerful (and hardest to measure) drivers of engagement, conversion, and long-term loyalty. We explore how marketers can build and protect trust in social-first, highly visible environments.Want to be featured on the pod? Drop us a voice note on Instagram at @GiraffeSM. About Giraffe Social's Social in 10 Podcast Giraffe Social is a multi-disciplined digital marketing agency specialising in social media marketing based on the South Coast of the United Kingdom. We work with a wide range of industries, spanning from Fintech and L&D, to Beauty and Retail. Social in 10 is a weekly podcast about all things digital marketing. We discuss all the things social media managers want to know, including the latest platform updates, emerging trends, campaign ideas, and best practices to help you stay ahead of the curve. Whether you're managing multiple clients or growing your brand in-house, each episode is packed with actionable insights… all delivered in under ten minutes. Hosted by the Giraffe Social team, this is your fast, fun, no-fluff guide to making sense of social. New episodes every week, so tune in and level up your marketing game!

Drop us a message!In this episode, we're joined by Emma Gordon, Director at Bydand Strategic Communications, to explore how ambitious brands turn big ideas into clear, actionable communication strategies.Emma shares how strong internal communications help teams stay aligned during growth and change, and what bringing colleagues along the journey unlocks for trust, culture, and reputation.We also discuss how leaders are rethinking AI training, where it fits into day-to-day work, and how advisors decide where to focus first across growth marketing, reputation management, and strategy.In the news segment, Phil Treagus-Evans, CEO at Giraffe Social, breaks down the rise of personal branding. Learn how marketers can support founders and employees to build credibility on platforms like LinkedIn and TikTok, without losing individuality or brand alignment.Want to be featured on the pod? Drop us a voice note on Instagram at @GiraffeSM. About Giraffe Social's Social in 10 Podcast Giraffe Social is a multi-disciplined digital marketing agency specialising in social media marketing based on the South Coast of the United Kingdom. We work with a wide range of industries, spanning from Fintech and L&D, to Beauty and Retail. Social in 10 is a weekly podcast about all things digital marketing. We discuss all the things social media managers want to know, including the latest platform updates, emerging trends, campaign ideas, and best practices to help you stay ahead of the curve. Whether you're managing multiple clients or growing your brand in-house, each episode is packed with actionable insights… all delivered in under ten minutes. Hosted by the Giraffe Social team, this is your fast, fun, no-fluff guide to making sense of social. New episodes every week, so tune in and level up your marketing game!

Drop us a message!In this episode, Aigerim Mullen, Marketing Manager at Abbott, shares how her experience across clinical, academic, and commercial environments shapes her approach to healthcare and medical device marketing. We explore what strong marketing leadership looks like in a sector where patient outcomes, regulation, and innovation all intersect.Aigerim breaks down how to keep marketing genuinely patient-centred while still supporting commercial growth, and how to balance scientific credibility with clear, accessible communication that works for both clinicians and wider audiences.The conversation also looks ahead at the future of healthcare marketing, covering emerging challenges and opportunities for leaders navigating rapid technological and regulatory change.Plus, we're also speaking to Elena Nikiforova, Social Media Manager at Giraffe Social, to get her thoughts on using social listening to uncover sentiment, trends, and unmet needs… and how marketers can use these insights to build more empathetic, proactive brand strategies.Want to be featured on the pod? Drop us a voice note on Instagram at @GiraffeSM. About Giraffe Social's Social in 10 Podcast Giraffe Social is a multi-disciplined digital marketing agency specialising in social media marketing based on the South Coast of the United Kingdom. We work with a wide range of industries, spanning from Fintech and L&D, to Beauty and Retail. Social in 10 is a weekly podcast about all things digital marketing. We discuss all the things social media managers want to know, including the latest platform updates, emerging trends, campaign ideas, and best practices to help you stay ahead of the curve. Whether you're managing multiple clients or growing your brand in-house, each episode is packed with actionable insights… all delivered in under ten minutes. Hosted by the Giraffe Social team, this is your fast, fun, no-fluff guide to making sense of social. New episodes every week, so tune in and level up your marketing game!

Drop us a message!Join Lauren Salisbury, Marketing Manager at QA Higher Education, as she shares practical advice for marketers building their careers and reaching global audiences.Learn the key skills and habits that accelerate early-career growth. Discover how to market effectively to international students, adapt messaging across cultures, and keep your brand consistent.Plus, we're also speaking to Phil Treagus-Evans, CEO at Giraffe Social, to get his thoughts on why audiences want to see the people behind brands. From employee spotlights to behind-the-scenes content, discover how to make corporate brands feel more human and relatable.Want to be featured on the pod? Drop us a voice note on Instagram at @GiraffeSM. About Giraffe Social's Social in 10 Podcast Giraffe Social is a multi-disciplined digital marketing agency specialising in social media marketing based on the South Coast of the United Kingdom. We work with a wide range of industries, spanning from Fintech and L&D, to Beauty and Retail. Social in 10 is a weekly podcast about all things digital marketing. We discuss all the things social media managers want to know, including the latest platform updates, emerging trends, campaign ideas, and best practices to help you stay ahead of the curve. Whether you're managing multiple clients or growing your brand in-house, each episode is packed with actionable insights… all delivered in under ten minutes. Hosted by the Giraffe Social team, this is your fast, fun, no-fluff guide to making sense of social. New episodes every week, so tune in and level up your marketing game!

Drop us a message!Marketing in financial services means navigating some of the toughest creative constraints out there. In this episode, Luke McGrath, Head of Marketing at True Potential, shares how he's managed to grow awareness and engagement in a strictly regulated environment—without sacrificing originality or impact.Luke breaks down the mindset and processes that keep creativity alive within compliance-heavy boundaries, and where he believes automation is creating new opportunities for financial brands to build more meaningful, human connections with customers.We're also speaking to Nikki, a Creative Executive here at Giraffe Social. She unpacks the challenge of maintaining a consistent brand voice across TikTok, LinkedIn, Instagram, and beyond. As audiences jump between platforms, she explores why the strongest brands develop a flexible but unmistakable language system that adapts without losing identity.Want to be featured on the pod? Drop us a voice note on Instagram at @GiraffeSM. About Giraffe Social's Social in 10 Podcast Giraffe Social is a multi-disciplined digital marketing agency specialising in social media marketing based on the South Coast of the United Kingdom. We work with a wide range of industries, spanning from Fintech and L&D, to Beauty and Retail. Social in 10 is a weekly podcast about all things digital marketing. We discuss all the things social media managers want to know, including the latest platform updates, emerging trends, campaign ideas, and best practices to help you stay ahead of the curve. Whether you're managing multiple clients or growing your brand in-house, each episode is packed with actionable insights… all delivered in under ten minutes. Hosted by the Giraffe Social team, this is your fast, fun, no-fluff guide to making sense of social. New episodes every week, so tune in and level up your marketing game!

Drop us a message!In competitive B2B SaaS, content isn't just about ranking, it's about revenue. In this episode, Aysha Shereen, Content Marketing Manager at Node4, breaks down how AI-driven acquisition channels are evolving and what role content marketers must play in shaping their future.Aysha shares her biggest lessons from scaling organic performance in fast-moving SaaS markets, revealing how the best content teams blend product understanding, SEO intent, and customer psychology to create assets that genuinely convert. She also offers practical advice for early-career SaaS marketers looking to break into product-led content roles and deliver meaningful impact from day one.A sharp, actionable conversation for anyone navigating the intersection of AI, product marketing, and high-performance SaaS content.Want to be featured on the pod? Drop us a voice note on Instagram at @GiraffeSM. About Giraffe Social's Social in 10 Podcast Giraffe Social is a multi-disciplined digital marketing agency specialising in social media marketing based on the South Coast of the United Kingdom. We work with a wide range of industries, spanning from Fintech and L&D, to Beauty and Retail. Social in 10 is a weekly podcast about all things digital marketing. We discuss all the things social media managers want to know, including the latest platform updates, emerging trends, campaign ideas, and best practices to help you stay ahead of the curve. Whether you're managing multiple clients or growing your brand in-house, each episode is packed with actionable insights… all delivered in under ten minutes. Hosted by the Giraffe Social team, this is your fast, fun, no-fluff guide to making sense of social. New episodes every week, so tune in and level up your marketing game!

Drop us a message!What happens when a brand stops shouting and starts sounding human again? In this episode, Chris Dale, Brand Strategy & Marketing Performance Manager at Hammer Distribution, shares how human-first marketing is reshaping audience behaviour, and why authenticity outperforms traditional sales messaging in today's attention economy.Chris breaks down Hammer's journey “back to its roots,” revealing how nostalgic design choices were intentionally tied to strategic business goals rather than surface-level aesthetics. From rebuilding brand identity to reconnecting with loyal audiences, he explains how emotion, memory, and behavioural insight shaped the creative direction.Plus, we're also speaking to Ben, a Paid Media Manager at Giraffe Social, to get his thoughts on what makes high-performing ad creatives right now, and why the strongest ads feel personal, timely, and unmistakably human.Want to be featured on the pod? Drop us a voice note on Instagram at @GiraffeSM. About Giraffe Social's Social in 10 Podcast Giraffe Social is a multi-disciplined digital marketing agency specialising in social media marketing based on the South Coast of the United Kingdom. We work with a wide range of industries, spanning from Fintech and L&D, to Beauty and Retail. Social in 10 is a weekly podcast about all things digital marketing. We discuss all the things social media managers want to know, including the latest platform updates, emerging trends, campaign ideas, and best practices to help you stay ahead of the curve. Whether you're managing multiple clients or growing your brand in-house, each episode is packed with actionable insights… all delivered in under ten minutes. Hosted by the Giraffe Social team, this is your fast, fun, no-fluff guide to making sense of social. New episodes every week, so tune in and level up your marketing game!

Drop us a message!Enterprise marketing isn't just driven by logic or data—it's powered by emotion. In this episode, Chris Dale, Brand Strategy & Marketing Performance Manager at Hammer Distribution, joins us to explore how design psychology, nostalgia, and emotional cues shape brand perception in even the most complex B2B environments.Chris breaks down why emotional resonance matters just as much in enterprise as it does in consumer marketing, how nostalgia can create instant trust and familiarity, and the subtle design decisions that influence brand recall, confidence, and long-term loyalty.Plus, we're also speaking to Lizzie, a Paid Media Manager here at Giraffe Social, to get her thoughts on User Generated Content on social media.Want to be featured on the pod? Drop us a voice note on Instagram at @GiraffeSM. About Giraffe Social's Social in 10 Podcast Giraffe Social is a multi-disciplined digital marketing agency specialising in social media marketing based on the South Coast of the United Kingdom. We work with a wide range of industries, spanning from Fintech and L&D, to Beauty and Retail. Social in 10 is a weekly podcast about all things digital marketing. We discuss all the things social media managers want to know, including the latest platform updates, emerging trends, campaign ideas, and best practices to help you stay ahead of the curve. Whether you're managing multiple clients or growing your brand in-house, each episode is packed with actionable insights… all delivered in under ten minutes. Hosted by the Giraffe Social team, this is your fast, fun, no-fluff guide to making sense of social. New episodes every week, so tune in and level up your marketing game!

Drop us a message!With almost twenty years in the industry, Adam Pembrey, Marketing Manager at SUEZ UK, has seen demand generation evolve through shifting buyer expectations, new technologies, and changing growth pressures.In this episode, Adam breaks down what today's most effective demand engines really look like, and why the fundamentals still matter more than the noise.We explore the role marketing plays in making a company attractive to investors and buyers, the most overlooked part of lead nurturing that quietly transforms conversion rates, and how Adam decides which growth levers to pull first when entering a new organisation or sector.We're also speaking to Michelle, the Head of Social here at Giraffe Social, as we unpack the real value of social analytics. With endless metrics available, we discuss why the power of data lies not in reporting the past, but in inspiring more creative, testable ideas for the future.Want to be featured on the pod? Drop us a voice note on Instagram at @GiraffeSM. About Giraffe Social's Social in 10 Podcast Giraffe Social is a multi-disciplined digital marketing agency specialising in social media marketing based on the South Coast of the United Kingdom. We work with a wide range of industries, spanning from Fintech and L&D, to Beauty and Retail. Social in 10 is a weekly podcast about all things digital marketing. We discuss all the things social media managers want to know, including the latest platform updates, emerging trends, campaign ideas, and best practices to help you stay ahead of the curve. Whether you're managing multiple clients or growing your brand in-house, each episode is packed with actionable insights… all delivered in under ten minutes. Hosted by the Giraffe Social team, this is your fast, fun, no-fluff guide to making sense of social. New episodes every week, so tune in and level up your marketing game!

Drop us a message!Fintech is one of the toughest industries to stand out in; regulated, competitive, and constantly innovating. In this episode, Luke McGrath, Head of Marketing at True Potential, joins us to break down what it really takes to build a brand that doesn't just blend into the noise.We also speak to Catherine, exploring why attention spans aren't as short as marketers think, and how to determine the ideal video length for social platforms in 2025.Want to be featured on the pod? Drop us a voice note on Instagram at @GiraffeSM. About Giraffe Social's Social in 10 Podcast Giraffe Social is a multi-disciplined digital marketing agency specialising in social media marketing based on the South Coast of the United Kingdom. We work with a wide range of industries, spanning from Fintech and L&D, to Beauty and Retail. Social in 10 is a weekly podcast about all things digital marketing. We discuss all the things social media managers want to know, including the latest platform updates, emerging trends, campaign ideas, and best practices to help you stay ahead of the curve. Whether you're managing multiple clients or growing your brand in-house, each episode is packed with actionable insights… all delivered in under ten minutes. Hosted by the Giraffe Social team, this is your fast, fun, no-fluff guide to making sense of social. New episodes every week, so tune in and level up your marketing game!

Drop us a message!Brilliant ideas don't sell themselves—they need champions who can bring them to life. In this episode, we're joined by Mike Millar, Founder of SmplCo, to explore how adopting an entrepreneurial mindset can help marketers win support for bold ideas and turn them into real outcomes.We unpack the process behind validating ideas, securing investment, and landing partnerships—and how those same principles can be applied within large organisations. Drawing on a background in journalism and brand strategy, [Guest Name] also shares how storytelling becomes the secret weapon for innovators looking to move from concept to execution.If you've ever struggled to get buy-in for new marketing strategies, this episode shows you how to make ideas stick.Want to be featured on the pod? Drop us a voice note on Instagram at @GiraffeSM. About Giraffe Social's Social in 10 Podcast Giraffe Social is a multi-disciplined digital marketing agency specialising in social media marketing based on the South Coast of the United Kingdom. We work with a wide range of industries, spanning from Fintech and L&D, to Beauty and Retail. Social in 10 is a weekly podcast about all things digital marketing. We discuss all the things social media managers want to know, including the latest platform updates, emerging trends, campaign ideas, and best practices to help you stay ahead of the curve. Whether you're managing multiple clients or growing your brand in-house, each episode is packed with actionable insights… all delivered in under ten minutes. Hosted by the Giraffe Social team, this is your fast, fun, no-fluff guide to making sense of social. New episodes every week, so tune in and level up your marketing game!

Drop us a message!What separates a good brand from one that people believe in?In this episode, Puneet Khushalani, Senior Brand Partnerships Manager at TikTok, shares his perspective on the hidden challenges within advertising that outsiders rarely see, and what it takes to build brand value that lasts.For anyone curious about what makes a brand truly God-tier, this conversation gets to the heart of it.Want to be featured on the pod? Drop us a voice note on Instagram at @GiraffeSM. About Giraffe Social's Social in 10 Podcast Giraffe Social is a multi-disciplined digital marketing agency specialising in social media marketing based on the South Coast of the United Kingdom. We work with a wide range of industries, spanning from Fintech and L&D, to Beauty and Retail. Social in 10 is a weekly podcast about all things digital marketing. We discuss all the things social media managers want to know, including the latest platform updates, emerging trends, campaign ideas, and best practices to help you stay ahead of the curve. Whether you're managing multiple clients or growing your brand in-house, each episode is packed with actionable insights… all delivered in under ten minutes. Hosted by the Giraffe Social team, this is your fast, fun, no-fluff guide to making sense of social. New episodes every week, so tune in and level up your marketing game!

Drop us a message!Technical brilliance alone isn't enough, it needs a story to give it direction.In this episode, Marta Ishaq Zoglman shares how communication, far from being a “soft skill,” is a discipline that can be sharpened through structured approaches like systems thinking and requirements engineering.If you've ever wondered how to bridge the gap between expertise and influence, this conversation offers a roadmap.Want to be featured on the pod? Drop us a voice note on Instagram at @GiraffeSM. About Giraffe Social's Social in 10 Podcast Giraffe Social is a multi-disciplined digital marketing agency specialising in social media marketing based on the South Coast of the United Kingdom. We work with a wide range of industries, spanning from Fintech and L&D, to Beauty and Retail. Social in 10 is a weekly podcast about all things digital marketing. We discuss all the things social media managers want to know, including the latest platform updates, emerging trends, campaign ideas, and best practices to help you stay ahead of the curve. Whether you're managing multiple clients or growing your brand in-house, each episode is packed with actionable insights… all delivered in under ten minutes. Hosted by the Giraffe Social team, this is your fast, fun, no-fluff guide to making sense of social. New episodes every week, so tune in and level up your marketing game!

Drop us a message!Sport thrives on raw emotion, drama, and human connection. But how do you translate that intensity into digital content that resonates with fans while staying true to wider brand goals?In this episode, Chris Kynoch shares lessons from creating content at McLaren and UEFA—navigating high-pressure moments, making sharp editorial calls, and sustaining global communities of millions.We also explore the rise of native and “disguised” ads that blend seamlessly into feeds, looking at the opportunities and risks for marketers. How do you create ads that feel authentic without crossing into inauthenticity? And how should success be measured when the lines between content and advertising are increasingly blurred?Want to be featured on the pod? Drop us a voice note on Instagram at @GiraffeSM. About Giraffe Social's Social in 10 Podcast Giraffe Social is a multi-disciplined digital marketing agency specialising in social media marketing based on the South Coast of the United Kingdom. We work with a wide range of industries, spanning from Fintech and L&D, to Beauty and Retail. Social in 10 is a weekly podcast about all things digital marketing. We discuss all the things social media managers want to know, including the latest platform updates, emerging trends, campaign ideas, and best practices to help you stay ahead of the curve. Whether you're managing multiple clients or growing your brand in-house, each episode is packed with actionable insights… all delivered in under ten minutes. Hosted by the Giraffe Social team, this is your fast, fun, no-fluff guide to making sense of social. New episodes every week, so tune in and level up your marketing game!

Drop us a message!Great marketing isn't just seen… it's accessible, inclusive, and real.In this episode, we explore two shifts reshaping the industry: the ongoing need for accessibility in digital design, and the rise of employee-generated content as a driver of authenticity.Robin Christopherson shares lessons from years of championing inclusive design, including what marketers still get wrong, how to build accessibility into the creative process from day one, and the role marketing teams can play in shaping more inclusive digital spaces.We also dig into the trend of EGC - employee-generated content - where brands empower employees to create content that's less polished but far more human, and how this changes the way we think about content quality and brand storytelling.If you want to understand how accessibility and authenticity together can build deeper trust with audiences, this conversation is for you.Want to be featured on the pod? Drop us a voice note on Instagram at @GiraffeSM. About Giraffe Social's Social in 10 Podcast Giraffe Social is a multi-disciplined digital marketing agency specialising in social media marketing based on the South Coast of the United Kingdom. We work with a wide range of industries, spanning from Fintech and L&D, to Beauty and Retail. Social in 10 is a weekly podcast about all things digital marketing. We discuss all the things social media managers want to know, including the latest platform updates, emerging trends, campaign ideas, and best practices to help you stay ahead of the curve. Whether you're managing multiple clients or growing your brand in-house, each episode is packed with actionable insights… all delivered in under ten minutes. Hosted by the Giraffe Social team, this is your fast, fun, no-fluff guide to making sense of social. New episodes every week, so tune in and level up your marketing game!

Drop us a message!Big marketing ideas often stall before they start, whether it's internal red tape or shifting platform rules.In this episode, we tackle both sides of the challenge: how to secure buy-in across departments without endless meetings, and how to keep campaigns visible as social algorithms move away from vanity metrics and toward deeper engagement.We explore practical methods for building momentum, spotting early pitfalls, and finding unexpected allies inside organisations, as well as rethinking content strategies for 2025, focusing on saves, shares, comments, and dwell time as the new measures of success.If you're ready to cut through complexity, win support, and adapt your content to where algorithms are heading, this episode will show you how.Want to be featured on the pod? Drop us a voice note on Instagram at @GiraffeSM. About Giraffe Social's Social in 10 Podcast Giraffe Social is a multi-disciplined digital marketing agency specialising in social media marketing based on the South Coast of the United Kingdom. We work with a wide range of industries, spanning from Fintech and L&D, to Beauty and Retail. Social in 10 is a weekly podcast about all things digital marketing. We discuss all the things social media managers want to know, including the latest platform updates, emerging trends, campaign ideas, and best practices to help you stay ahead of the curve. Whether you're managing multiple clients or growing your brand in-house, each episode is packed with actionable insights… all delivered in under ten minutes. Hosted by the Giraffe Social team, this is your fast, fun, no-fluff guide to making sense of social. New episodes every week, so tune in and level up your marketing game!

Drop us a message!Engineering audiences are some of the toughest to engage. They're data-driven, highly analytical, and allergic to fluff, yet too much detail can bury the story. So how do you strike the right balance?In this episode, we explore the tension between “shallow and shiny” versus “deep and dull” content, and why successful engineering marketing requires a mix of both.We unpack how engineers consume content differently, how to translate complex, data-heavy messages into narratives that resonate, and the most common mistakes marketers make when trying to reach technical stakeholders.Want to be featured on the pod? Drop us a voice note on Instagram at @GiraffeSM. About Giraffe Social's Social in 10 Podcast Giraffe Social is a multi-disciplined digital marketing agency specialising in social media marketing based on the South Coast of the United Kingdom. We work with a wide range of industries, spanning from Fintech and L&D, to Beauty and Retail. Social in 10 is a weekly podcast about all things digital marketing. We discuss all the things social media managers want to know, including the latest platform updates, emerging trends, campaign ideas, and best practices to help you stay ahead of the curve. Whether you're managing multiple clients or growing your brand in-house, each episode is packed with actionable insights… all delivered in under ten minutes. Hosted by the Giraffe Social team, this is your fast, fun, no-fluff guide to making sense of social. New episodes every week, so tune in and level up your marketing game!

Meta's got its eyes (and algorithms) locked on unoriginal content, and that's just the tip of the AI-powered iceberg. This week, EDGE of the Web is knee-deep in septic tank puns and even deeper into breaking news shaking up AI, SEO, and the future of web browsing. Hosts Erin Sparks and guest Crystal Carter wade through Meta's latest moves to curb content farms and content theft, Google's new AI-generated shopping and search experiments, and the shocking rise of AI-powered browser contenders. Plus, the crew gets real about how AI Overviews are cannibalizing clicks, what “agentic AI” means for your future shopping sprees (and your calendar), and why being authentic is still your best bet in the SEO cesspool. In a particularly cheeky side note, Erin and Crystal dissect the subtle strategies hidden in Google's virtual try-on images—are those AI-generated smiles a sly tactic for boosting conversions? Spoiler: Someone's always a little happier in new clothes. Don't panic (and always carry a towel): EDGE of the Web keeps you prepared and laughing through the chaos of AI, changing SERP landscapes, and the not-so-glamorous world of digital marketing. Smash that play button for smart analysis, sharp takes, and the kind of SEO news you actually want to share—even if you promise to quit the septic tank jokes… eventually. News from the EDGE: [00:00:21] Try PreWriter.AI [00:00:44] BrightonSEO 15% Off Tickets [00:05:16] Meta Follows YouTube In Crackdown On Unoriginal Content AI / SEO News Segment: [00:10:47] EDGE of the Web Sponsor: PreWriter.AI [00:11:57] OpenAI And Perplexity Set To Battle Google For Browser Dominance [00:22:06] Google launches AI shopping tools with virtual try-ons and smarter price alerts [00:29:00] Google Web Guide for AI-organized search results [00:34:34] EDGE of the Web Sponsor: WAIKAI [00:36:01] Google's AI Overviews are hurting clicks: Pew study [00:44:17] Google Says AI Won't Replace The Need For SEO Thanks to our sponsors! PreWriter.AI: https://edgeofthewebradio.com/prewriter  Inlinks WAIKAY https://edgeofthewebradio.com/waikay Follow Us: X: @ErinSparks X: @CrystalontheWeb X: @TheMann00 X: @EDGEWebRadio

A whopping 43% of consumers allegedly use AI tools daily – or do they? This week, Local SEO expert Greg Gifford and the EDGE team dissect the latest digital marketing headlines, exposing the flaws behind flashy AI stats, CTR doom-and-gloom, and Google's evolving local business verifications, all while dodging shady review extortionists (and some Coldplay memes). The crew calls out shaky survey methodologies and sample sets that would make any statistician cringe. Discover why that 32% drop in Google's top CTR may be missing more context than your cousin's Facebook rants, and why local businesses should give side-eye to Google's new AI-calling feature that threatens to turn bespoke service into a commodity. And if you've been targeted by one-star review scams, Greg's got some no-nonsense advice for fighting back – armed with screenshots, not dessert bribes. Spoiler alert: If your restaurant is handing out free tiramisu for reviews, you might be breaking federal law (and Greg will rant accordingly). Plus, why the latest batch of buzzword acronyms just muddies the digital waters for businesses already struggling to keep up. Listen in and join in the fun in Local News on the EDGE! News from the EDGE: [00:06:20] 43% of consumers now use AI tools daily: Report [00:14:10] Google CTRs Drop 32% For Top Result After AI Overview Rollout [00:21:05] EDGE of the Web Sponsor: Site Strategics Local SEO News Segment: [00:22:20] Google Business Profile Appeal Tool Now Shows Rejection Reasons [00:28:45] Google Search Can Now Call Local Businesses Using AI [00:44:01] EDGE of the Web Sponsor: WAIKAY [00:45:11] 1-star review attacks plague restaurants on Google [00:52:56] SEO vs GEO vs AIO: WTF? Thanks to our sponsors! Site Strategics https://edgeofthewebradio.com/site Inlinks WAIKAY https://edgeofthewebradio.com/waikay Follow Us: X: @ErinSparks X: @GregGifford X: @TheMann00 X: @EDGEWebRadio

This week on Marketing O'Clock: Microsoft Ads drops new reporting tools and ends PMax's priority over Standard Shopping. Google now supports loyalty perks in Organization structured data— Merchant Center not needed. Plus, AI Mode hits the main stage with multilingual search, and ads may be next (but classy).Visit us at - https://marketingoclock.com/

Greg Finn jumps into the Paid Ad news focus this week. Friend of the show; it's always a good time when he is around! What do you think about Google's ambitious prediction that AI will craft mesmerizing customer journeys while the search giant navigates through over 5 trillion searches a year? And what is going on with Google Ads and their announcement that they will use well-performing Headlines in Sitelinks? That's confusing for us, but it will also be confusing for consumers. What gives, Google? Greg, Erin, and Jacob dive deep into the world of paid ads, dissecting Google's latest move to serve triple ads on a single SERP and introducing the bewildering Mystery Shopping Rating. As Greg unleashes his fiery insights, they tackle the challenges of Google's evolving auction dynamics and the perplexities of manipulating ad placements and bids for high-value prospects. Not to mention our newest discovery, the Grinning Indomitable Greg Finn Yeti! We've seen it in the wild, and he's pissed! A must-listen-to podcast for the avid Paid Ad advertiser - today on the EDGE! Key Segments: [00:01:51]    The Grinning Indomitable Greg Finn Yeti! News from the EDGE: [00:03:37]  Reddit for SMBs [00:08:28] Google now sees more than 5 trillion searches per year [00:11:06]  EDGE of the Web Sponsor: Site Strategics [00:12:06] Google VP of Ads bets on AI to transform ads into tailored consumer journeys Paid Ad News: [00:15:35]  Google is Making Headlines (AKA sitelinks) once Again with Some New Developments. [00:22:07] Google Ads run different auctions for each ad location [00:26:46] EDGE of the Web Sponsor: InLinks [00:27:43] Google Ads Triple Serving Ads On Same Search Results Page [00:33:59] Google Ads Mystery Shopping Rating - What? [00:41:22] Google Ads High Value New Customer Mode Live For Some Thanks to our sponsors! Site Strategics https://edgeofthewebradio.com/site Inlinks https://edgeofthewebradio.com/inlinks Thanks to our Social News Expert: Greg Finn X: @gregfinn LinkedIn: Greg Finn Marketing O'Clock X: @MarketingOClock Follow Us: X: @ErinSparks X: @TheMann00 X: @EDGEWebRadio

Erin Sparks and Jacob Mann are returning to bring you the hottest SEO news of the week. Mordy was absent this week, but worry not, as the great Michael King fills in!  Google AI overviews are under fire for giving dangerous and wrong answers. Announced at Google I/O and recently rolled out, the AI summary tool has quickly gathered attention for its comically incorrect responses to user queries. The question of why Google has not removed such a blatantly bad and underdeveloped tool leaves the SEO community puzzled.  The crew explores TikTok's debut of AI-powered ad automation, TikTok One, a centralized hub that gives advertisers access to creators, creative tools, partners, and measurement capabilities. Additionally, TikTok releases TikTok Symphony, an umbrella for AI ad tools that support script writing, video production, and creative asset optimization.  The last headline on the ballot shows that the Wayback Machine is under attack. The Internet Archive has been hit with a DDOS attack, making it difficult for users to access the California-based nonprofits free site. The nonprofit wrote on Monday that data has thankfully not been affected, but services are still being blocked for many users. The identities and motives of the attackers are still unknown. Tune in to navigate a major week in SEO news with the team this week as always, here on the EDGE of the Web! Digital Marketing News: [00:00:00] EDGE of the Web Sponsor: Riverside.FM [00:04:12] Google faces criticism over AI Overview feature providing misleading and harmful information [00:15:01] TikTok launches AI-driven tools to automate ad creation [00:21:07] EDGE of the Web Sponsor: Site Strategics [00:21:16] Internet Archive experiences major disruption from a DDoS attack AI News: [00:25:00] Ex-Googler: Google's AI projects are driven by ‘stone cold panic' [00:29:59] EDGE of the Web Sponsor: SERanking [00:31:21] Elon Musk's xAI raises $6 billion to fund its race against ChatGPT and all the rest AI Tools: [00:35:40] Canva Magic Studio [00:37:59] EDGE of the Web Sponsor: Inlinks Barry Blast from Search Engine Roundtable: [00:39:40 ] Memorial Day Google Search Ranking Volatility [00:41:49] Google's John Mueller On Recovering From Core Updates - Maybe You Had A Good Run… [00:44:10] In the Face Of AI Overview Backlash, Google Updates Docs With How To Show Web-Only Results & How To Give Feedback Thanks to our Sponsors! Site Strategics https://edgeofthewebradio.com/site SERanking: https://edgeofthewebradio.com/seranking Inlinks https://edgeofthewebradio.com/inlinks Riverside.FM: https://edgeofthewebradio.com/riverside Follow Us: Twitter: @ErinSparks Twitter: @iPullRank Twitter: @MordyOberstein Twitter: @TheMann00 Twitter: @EDGEWebRadio Resources:  Google faces criticism over AI Overview feature providing misleading and harmful information TikTok launches AI-driven tools to automate ad creation Internet Archive experiences major disruption from a DDoS attack Ex-Googler: Google's AI projects are driven by ‘stone cold panic' Google's AI Overviews Shake Up E-commerce Search Visibility Elon Musk's xAI raises $6 billion to fund its race against ChatGPT and all the rest Canva Magic Studio Automate prompt engineering with self-improving optimization Memorial Day Google Search Ranking Volatility Google's John Mueller On Recovering From Core Updates - Maybe You Had A Good Run… In Face Of AI Overview Backlash, Google Updates Docs With How To Show Web Only Results & How To Give Feedback #StandwithUkraine edgeofthewebradio.com/ukraine  

In This Episode... Welcome to the Dojo, the podcast where we turn marketing news into marketing tasks. This week we're joined by Gustavo Uy, and we talk about: Apple Apologises for Crush Advert The Ordinary Push Science in Ads Tim's AI Corner: GPT-4o Timestamps 02:36 – Story 1 – Apple Apologises for Crush Advert 20:45 – Story 2 – The Ordinary Push Science in Ads 35:21 – Story 3 – Tim's AI Corner: GPT-4o 48:00 – The Tasks Get a FREE review of your website https://exposureninja.com/rpod/review/ Get the show notes https://exposureninja.com/podcast/dojo-17/ Watch the podcast recording on YouTube: https://exposure.ninja/dojo-17 You May Also Enjoy… The Reason Your PPC Isn't Working https://exposureninja.com/podcast/dojo-15/ Tesla's PPC Marketing Mistakes I ft. Emma Davies and Ruta Sudmantaite https://exposureninja.com/podcast/dojo-14/ How Formula One Teams Nail Event Marketing https://exposureninja.com/podcast/dojo-13/ The Risks of Relying on AI Content I ft. Andy Tuxford https://exposureninja.com/podcast/dojo-12/ The Impact of AI on Customer Trust I ft. Daisy Burns O'Keefe https://exposureninja.com/podcast/dojo-11/ Is Google's Generative AI Search Rolling Out? https://exposureninja.com/podcast/dojo-10/

Episode 208 contains the Digital Marketing News and Updates from the week of Apr 15-19, 2024.1. Google Confirms: Fewer Links Needed for Effective SEO Rankings! - At the recent SERP Conference, Google's Gary Illyes reiterated a significant shift in SEO strategy: the diminishing importance of links in ranking web pages. During his presentation on April 19, 2024, Illyes highlighted that Google's algorithm now requires "very few links to rank pages," signaling a continued move away from heavily relying on link quantity for search engine rankings.This evolution reflects Google's ongoing updates to refine their search algorithms to focus more on content quality and user experience rather than traditional signals like the number of links. Illyes' statement underscores a broader trend where links, although still valuable, are not the central metric they once were in SEO. This shift encourages SEO professionals and business owners to diversify their SEO strategies, focusing more on quality content and holistic site optimization.For businesses, this means that developing robust, relevant content and ensuring a user-friendly site can be just as crucial as link-building efforts. This change is intended to make search results more useful and relevant to users, aligning more closely with Google's core objective of enhancing the user search experience.2. Preventing Deindexing After Hosting Transitions! - If you've recently migrated your site and noticed a drop in search visibility, then this is for you.The issue begins post-migration, where a site might disappear from Google's search results. This sudden disappearance often leads to a panic, but the root causes can typically be diagnosed and resolved through a few strategic steps. John Mueller of Google suggests that the primary check should be whether the new site setup is unintentionally blocking Google's crawlers, which is a common oversight during migrations.The first step in diagnosing this issue is to utilize Google Search Console. This tool can help identify whether pages are not found (404 errors) or if there's a robots.txt file blocking the crawlers. Such blockages can occur due to settings that discourage search engines from indexing the site, which might be enabled during the migration process without the site owner's knowledge.Mueller points out that often during a WordPress site migration, settings intended to hide the site from search engines during development are not reverted. To check this, you can navigate to the 'Reading' settings under 'Settings' in the WordPress admin panel. If the 'Discourage search engines from indexing this site' option is ticked, simply unticking this will resolve the issue.If the problem isn't related to this setting, it might be due to an SEO or migration plugin that inadvertently set up a robots.txt block. Alternatively, it could be a DNS setting issue or an error on the part of the web hosting service.3. Google's Stance on The Impact of Owning Multiple Websites - Google's John Mueller clarified concerns surrounding the impact of managing multiple websites on SEO rankings. He emphasized that owning several websites in itself does not directly harm rankings. However, the real issue lies in the distribution of effort and quality. Mueller pointed out that managing multiple sites often dilutes the ability to maintain high-quality content across all platforms. If the sites cover the same topic, it might appear as an attempt to manipulate rankings, which is not an ideal strategy for SEO success.For business owners, the takeaway is clear: focus on developing one authoritative website rather than spreading resources thin over multiple lesser sites. This approach not only enhances your site's quality and relevance but also aligns better with Google's algorithms, which favor comprehensive and user-focused content.This perspective is supported by Bill Hartzer of Hartzer Consulting, who notes that while it's common to think creating additional websites on the same topic might double success, this strategy rarely pans out. Consolidating sites into one primary, authoritative presence is usually more effective for maintaining strong SEO performance.For those contemplating the management of multiple websites, it's crucial to consider the strategic goals: are you aiming for quality or merely trying to capture more traffic? Opt for creating a single, robust site that truly serves your audience's needs and stands out in Google's search rankings.4. 404 Errors on Your Website's SEO Ranking - During the Google SEO office hours, Gary Illyes from Google addressed the common concern about the correlation between 404 errors and SEO rankings. Illyes confirmed that encountering 404 errors—'Page Not Found' notifications—is quite normal and does not inherently lead to ranking drops. He specifically addressed a scenario involving 'fake' 404 errors, which are URLs mistakenly or maliciously generated by bots, emphasizing that these errors are unlikely to influence a site's ranking negatively.For business owners monitoring their website's performance, it's crucial to understand that while 404 errors are not problematic by themselves, their origin and frequency should be analyzed. If genuine users encounter 404 errors, this could point to broken links or misspellings which should be redirected correctly to improve user experience and site functionality. Moreover, it's advised to periodically check for security vulnerabilities, especially if 404 errors might suggest bot activities searching for exploits.Illyes suggests utilizing analytics tools to identify if real users are encountering these errors and to take corrective actions like redirection or offering relevant content on error pages to retain visitor engagement. His insights clarify that while 404 errors are normal, the context and response to these errors can influence the overall quality and security of a website.5. Does Changing Your Web Hosting Impact SEO? Google Weighs In! - As business owners often ponder the implications of switching web hosting services, Google's Gary Illyes sheds light on this topic. Illyes clarifies that changing your web hosting platform should not negatively affect your SEO rankings, provided the migration is executed correctly.Key aspects to ensure a smooth transition include minimal downtime and maintaining website resolvability. This involves updating name server information and making sure the domain's IP address matches the new hosting location. Even if a website experiences downtime, as long as it's brief and the site's structure remains unchanged, the impact on SEO should be negligible.For those considering a host switch, it's crucial to choose a service that matches or exceeds the quality of your current host to avoid any potential drops in site performance. Illyes' insights confirm that with proper planning and execution, changing web hosts can be a seamless process that maintains your current SEO standing.6. How Does a 503 Status Affect Your Site's SEO? Google Explains - During the Google Search Central SEO office hours in April 2024, a significant clarification was made regarding the SEO implications of the 503 'Service Unavailable' status cod...

Episode 207 contains the Digital Marketing News and Updates from the week of Apr 08-12, 2024.1. How Index Selection and Canonicalization Are Impacted During Google's Core Algorithm Updates - In a recent LinkedIn conversation, a significant topic was brought to the forefront by David Minchala, addressing a common misconception in the SEO community regarding the impact of Google's core algorithm updates on indexing services like canonicalization.Minchala posed a question, suggesting that during core algorithm updates—or possibly any major update—services such as canonicalization might slow down. Canonicalization involves selecting the most representative URL for content that exists in multiple URLs and merging all signals from known duplicate URLs. The underlying concern was whether these crucial indexing services suffer in performance during extensive updates.Responding to this, Gary Illyes clarified that this assumption was incorrect. He explained that the processes of indexing, like canonicalization and index selection, are entirely independent of core updates. Illyes used a culinary analogy to elucidate his point, comparing core updates to adjusting ingredients in a recipe which can significantly alter the dish's outcome. In contrast, canonicalization and index selection processes are likened to activities in the salt mines or MSG factories—fundamental and separate from the immediate cooking process.This separation is crucial for SEO practitioners and business owners to understand, as it reassures that the stability and performance of indexing services remain unaffected by the changes introduced in core updates. These updates primarily tweak how Google's algorithms assess and rank web content based on relevance and quality, but they do not directly interfere with the technical processes of how content is indexed or canonical URLs are determined.In summary, while Google's core updates can significantly impact how websites are ranked, they do not directly influence the fundamental mechanisms of how websites are indexed. This distinction is crucial for effectively navigating SEO and ensuring that efforts are directed towards enhancing content quality and user experience, rather than worrying about the operational aspects of Google's algorithm updates.2. Google's John Mueller Demystifies 404 and 410 Codes! - Understanding the intricacies of SEO can be a daunting task, especially when it involves technical aspects like HTTP status codes. John Mueller, Google Search Advocate, clarified common misconceptions regarding the 404 and 410 HTTP status codes during a discussion on the r/SEO Reddit forum. These codes are used to indicate that a page on your website is either temporarily missing or permanently removed. Mueller emphasized that there is a minimal difference between the two from an SEO perspective, stating that both are treated similarly by Google's indexing process. Importantly, having these status codes on your website does not result in penalties from Google, which means they should not be a major concern for site owners.The discussion began with a website owner who had used AI-generated content for a videogame guide site. When issues arose from the AI content, the owner removed the pages and sought advice on recovery. This led to a broader conversation about whether 404 (not found) or 410 (gone) status codes could affect their site's SEO. Mueller reassured the community that the practical impact of these codes on search engine visibility is negligible.Mueller's advice serves as a crucial reminder for business owners: focus on creating high-quality, engaging content rather than getting bogged down by the technical nuances of HTTP status codes. By ensuring your site maintains valuable content, you're more likely to see sustained SEO success.3. Rising Ad Costs Due to Meta Platform Glitches! - Are you monitoring your Facebook advertising costs and performance? If not, you might want to start. A recent report highlighted significant system glitches within Meta's advertising platform that have been pushing up ad prices since early April 2024. These issues have been causing increased costs for advertisers, with some marketers experiencing a tripling in CPMs (cost per thousand impressions), a key advertising expense metric.According to insights from Bloomberg and additional details from Search Engine Land, these technical issues have not only escalated the costs but also led to mixed results and decreased sales, affecting the overall effectiveness of advertising campaigns. Interestingly, Meta has recognized some problems with ad delivery but suggests these are not widespread. They have reportedly fixed a few technical issues and are investigating further to ensure optimal outcomes for businesses using their platform.It's important to note that not every advertiser has been affected by these glitches. However, the potential impact on your ad spend due to these glitches could be significant. This situation mirrors a similar occurrence last year where a glitch led to many advertisers being overcharged. It's a crucial time to keep a vigilant eye on your account's performance and ad charges.Given that this issue arose at the close of the first quarter (January to March), any additional ad spend could inadvertently inflate Meta's revenue figures for the period, despite the possibility of subsequent refunds. While it might seem speculative, the timing of these glitches is indeed noteworthy.As a proactive measure, I recommend regularly checking your Facebook ad performance and noting any unusual fluctuations in costs. Staying informed and vigilant can help mitigate unexpected financial impacts and ensure your advertising budget is spent effectively.Should you notice inconsistencies, consider reaching out for expert analysis or directly to Meta support for clarification and potential rectification.

Episode 206 contains the Digital Marketing News and Updates from the week of Apr 1-5, 2024.1. Recovering from Google's March 2024 Core Update - In the aftermath of Google's March 2024 core update, many website owners, particularly small businesses, have felt the impact of significant traffic fluctuations. Google's John Mueller provided some clarity and advice on how to address these changes, especially for those who've experienced a downturn in website performance.The March 2024 update, one of Google's regular adjustments to its core algorithm, has been especially notable for its complexity and the breadth of its impact. Core updates are comprehensive, affecting various parts of the search algorithm, including how sites are ranked and indexed based on content quality, user experience, and many other factors.One key piece of advice that emerged from Mueller's discussion is not to rush into making changes while an update is still rolling out. This is because the full effects and intentions of the update might not be immediately clear, and premature adjustments could inadvertently harm your site's performance further. Mueller emphasized, however, that if there are clear areas for improvement on your site, especially those unrelated to the core update's specific focus, it's always a good time to address them.For businesses that have noticed a decline in rankings or traffic, Mueller's guidance focuses on long-term website health and user satisfaction. He suggests that optimizing your website for users—rather than search engines—is a critical strategy for recovery and future resilience. This approach, often termed "User Experience SEO," prioritizes how content and site design affect the user's interaction and satisfaction.A specific area highlighted for attention was the use of paid links or aggressive link-building strategies, which can negatively impact your site's ranking. If your site has been engaged in these practices, addressing them can be a step towards recovery.Mueller also advises diversifying your traffic sources to reduce dependency on search engine rankings. Focusing on building value for users can help attract direct visits and recommendations, aligning with Google's ultimate goal of rewarding sites that best serve their audience's needs.In summary, the March 2024 core update underscores the importance of maintaining a high-quality, user-focused website. Small business owners looking to recover from or thrive despite these updates should focus on:Patiently assessing the full impact of the update before making significant changes.Continuously improving site quality and user experience.Addressing specific known issues, such as paid links, that could harm your site's reputation with Google.Building a more robust online presence that isn't solely reliant on search engine traffic.2. Google's Approach to Canonical Pages - Google's Gary Illyes shed light on the intricate process of how Google selects canonical webpages. Essentially, publishers and SEOs traditionally view canonicalization as a method to earmark the 'original' or the most 'authoritative' version of a webpage for ranking purposes. However, Google's approach to canonicalization diverges significantly, focusing instead on deduplication - a method to identify and consolidate duplicate pages.Illyes clarifies that Google's primary aim in identifying a canonical page is to choose a version that best represents a set of duplicate pages based on collected signals. This involves a meticulous process where Google first determines if a page is a duplicate and then selects the most suitable version for indexing. This selection is critical as, typically, only canonical pages are displayed in search results.Google uses a variety of signals to make this decision, ranging from straightforward indicators like site owner annotations (e.g., rel=canonical tags) to more complex ones such as the page's overall significance on the internet. The importance of this process cannot be understated, as it directly impacts how content is presented in search results, especially for pages with multiple variants (e.g., product pages with different sizes or colors). Illyes's discussion also touches on the concept of duplicate clustering, where Google groups similar content together, and the notion of "centerpiece" content, which refers to the main content of a page that helps in the deduplication process.3. The Role of Content Quality in Google's Indexing Process - Google's Gary Illyes revealed key insights into how Google's indexing process evaluates the quality of webpages. llyes's discussion, aimed at demystifying the indexing stage, highlights the significant role content quality plays in determining a webpage's crawl frequency and its ranking in search results.The indexing process involves a comprehensive analysis of a page's textual content, including tags, attributes, images, and videos. During this stage, Google assesses various signals to gauge the page's quality. A critical takeaway for small business owners is the concept of 'index selection'. This step decides whether a page makes it into Google's index, a decision heavily influenced by the page's quality and the signals collected during the initial assessment.Illyes emphasizes that even if a webpage is technically sound, it might not be indexed if it doesn't meet Google's quality threshold. This underscores the importance of creating high-quality content that is not only relevant and informative but also engages the target audience effectively. Google has expressed an intention to conserve crawling resources by focusing on pages that warrant crawling, further stressing the need for content to meet high-quality standards.In addition to quality assessment, Illyes also delved into Google's approach to duplicate content, explaining the process of 'duplicate clustering'. This involves grouping similar pages and selecting a single canonical version to represent the content in search results. The selection is based on the quality signals associated with each duplicate page, highlighting the importance of ensuring each piece of content is optimized to stand out.Ensuring your content meets Google's quality standards can significantly enhance your website's visibility in search results. Here are actionable steps to align your content with these standards:Content Creation: Focus on developing content that thoroughly addresses your audience's needs and pain points. Tailor your content to reflect current search trends and demands.Content Structure: Make your content user-friendly. Structure it in an easily navigable format, and consider implementing schema markup to aid Google in understanding the context of your content.Content Refresh: Regularly update and refresh your content to keep it relevant and valuable, thereby improving your chances of being indexed and increasing your crawl frequency.4. Navigating Google's INP - Google has launched a tutorial aimed at helping website owners identify and rectify issues related to Interaction to Next Paint (INP), which has recently taken over from First Input Delay (FID) as a Core Web Vital. This shift signifies a new approach in assessing user experience on websites, placing a renewed emphasis on the speed and responsiveness ...

Episode 205 contains the Digital Marketing News and Updates from the week of Mar 25-29, 2024.1. Google's Guidance On Helpful Content Update - Google's Search Liaison recently addressed concerns about the Helpful Content Update (HCU), providing clear guidance for content creators facing ranking changes. Announced on March 25, 2024, this advice aims to dispel misconceptions and offer recovery strategies. Unlike earlier perceptions of the HCU affecting entire domains, Google now evaluates content on a page-by-page basis, focusing on the helpfulness of each page independently. This means that having some unhelpful content doesn't penalize an entire site, allowing helpful pages to be recognized individually.The clarification that the HCU is not a single signal but part of Google's complex ranking system highlights the need for creators to focus on producing genuinely helpful content. The emphasis is on the quality and relevance of content, rather than on trying to manipulate rankings through a single algorithmic factor.For those noticing ranking drops, Google suggests a thoughtful review of the content in question, urging creators to focus on its relevance and usefulness to users. Such decreases in visibility might indicate Google's preference for more pertinent content options, not necessarily a penalty against the site.Google has also introduced a new FAQ page to help publishers understand how to align their content with HCU principles, especially for content that has lost traffic following the update. By adhering to these guidelines and prioritizing user experience, website owners and SEO experts can better navigate the post-HCU search landscape.2. Rethinking BackLink Importance in SEO - John Mueller of Google indicated in a Reddit discussion that solely focusing on increasing backlink counts might not be the most effective strategy for marketers anymore. This change is part of Google's consistent effort over the past six months to update its stance on the role of links in SEO, suggesting a more comprehensive change in the valuation of links.The discussion was initiated by questions regarding the variation in backlink counts reported by different SEO tools, like Ahrefs and Google Search Console. Mueller pointed out that due to the varied methodologies of web crawling and indexing across these tools, discrepancies in link counts are natural. He stressed that concentrating on the sheer number of backlinks might divert marketers from improving their website's quality or relevance.Mueller further encouraged marketers to focus on other website aspects that could more significantly affect SEO success. He mentioned that search engines are now using more advanced methods, like sitemaps, for content discovery and evaluation, reducing dependency on backlinks for website ranking.This conversation is in line with recent adjustments in Google's guidelines and statements from Google representatives such as Gary Illyes, indicating a reduced emphasis on backlinks as a ranking factor. The removal of the term "important" from Google's description of links as a ranking signal confirms this trend.For business owners and digital marketers, this shift highlights the need for a more holistic SEO approach that extends beyond backlink building. Concentrating on content quality, user experience, and technical SEO elements, while keeping abreast of Google's algorithm updates, is crucial for maintaining a competitive edge in the digital arena.3. Core Web Vitals: A Ranking Factor That Requires Balanced Attention - On March 29, 2024, in episode 71 of Google's "Search Off The Record" podcast shed light on the complex role of Core Web Vitals (CWV) in SEO, making it clear that excelling in CWV scores alone does not ensure higher search visibility. This episode, featuring insights from Google engineers including Rick Viscomi, a web performance lead, and Lizzi Sassman, a senior technical writer, emphasized the importance of focusing on real-world user experiences over merely achieving high CWV scores.The conversation revealed a common misunderstanding among developers and marketers who prioritize CWV scores without considering actual user satisfaction. An eye-opening example shared was Google's own page experience documentation, which scored only 45 out of 100, illustrating that achieving top CWV scores is not crucial for success.John Mueller, explained that while CWV metrics do influence Google's ranking algorithms, slight improvements in these metrics may not significantly impact search rankings. He advised against focusing too much on CWV at the expense of other SEO priorities, as CWV is only one aspect of a comprehensive ranking system.The podcast also advocated for a holistic approach to web performance, suggesting improvements in CWV should be part of a broader strategy to enhance the overall user experience. This includes focusing on content quality and website design, aiming for a balanced effort that enhances user satisfaction and engagement.This discussion serves as a reminder that Core Web Vitals, while important, should not detract from other essential aspects of SEO like content relevance and user engagement. A well-rounded approach that prioritizes a superior user experience overall is crucial for long-term success in search engine rankings.4. Quality Over Quantity: Google's Stance on Content and Indexing - Again from episode 71 of the "Search Off The Record" podcast episode with Google's Gary Illyes, Lizzi Sassman, and guest Dave Smart, a key SEO principle was highlighted: the significant impact of content quality on Google's crawling and indexing frequency. The discussion emphasized a shift towards prioritizing content quality over quantity, a stance Google has consistently maintained. This approach contradicts the belief that merely increasing content production will lead to better rankings or more rapid indexing.John Mueller from Google further clarified this point on LinkedIn, addressing a misconception among website owners that boosting content volume could signal a site's quality to Google, thus improving crawl rates. Mueller likened this to the futile effort of making children prefer kale over ice cream by increasing kale consumption, humorously illustrating that quality cannot be replaced with quantity.Google and Bing's spokespeople have consistently stated that the frequency of content publication is not a ranking signal. This clarifies that producing more content does not automatically enhance a site's search visibility or ranking. Bing's Fabrice Canel supported this by advising a "less is more" strategy, suggesting that focusing on creating high-quality content is a more efficient use of crawl budgets and can result in higher quality traffic from search engines. Moreover, publishing repetitive content could negatively impact a site's crawl allocation, underlining the need for original and valuable content.For business owners in the digital marketing field, this underscores a critical message: investing in content quality, rather than quantity, is more likely to improve SEO performance. As user experience and content value become increasingly important, tailoring digital strategies to meet these expectations is key for sustained success in search engine rankings.5. Google's Plea to SEOs: Focus on Your Visitors, Not Just on Rankings - On March 2...

Episode 202 contains the Digital Marketing News and Updates from the week of Mar 4-8, 2024.1. IndexNow Insights & Top SEO Insights Report - In an announcement at PubCon and then shared on the Bing blog by Fabrice Canel, Principal Product Manager at Microsoft Bing, Bing Webmaster Tools has introduced new insights and reports aimed at enhancing site performance across Bing and general search engines. The new IndexNow Insights report, now offers more than just a glimpse into URLs submitted through IndexNow; it provides:Learn about issues with crawled URLs and the status of your submitted URLs.Receive detailed reports on the number of URLs submitted, crawled, and indexed.Learn about your latest 1000 submitted URLs, including their index status, first indexed date, and whether they were submitted late.Get insights into the source of your URL submissions, whether through Cloudflare, WordPress, manual submission, or other means.With the "Important URLs Missing" tab, find out which newly discovered links are getting clicked but were not recently visible in IndexNow, helping you to better optimize your content and identify any technical issues.Get detailed information on individual errors, including content quality, robots disallowed, not crawled, indexed, and deadlinks. View a list of problematic URLs and steps to fix them.Drill-down for further details on non-indexed URLs, sample URLs, submission times, and mitigation steps to getting URLs indexed.Export indexing trends for further analysis or reporting.With IndexNow reaching 2.5 billion URLs submitted—up from 1.2 billion six months ago—and accounting for 17% of new URLs clicked in web search results, as stated by Canel, the importance of adopting this protocol cannot be overstated. 2. YouTube's Algorithm Insights for Creators - In a recent conversation on the Creator Insider channel, Renee Richie, a creator liaison, delves into the intricacies of YouTube's algorithm with Todd, who leads the Growth and Discovery team at YouTube. The discussion focuses on clarifying common misconceptions creators have about the algorithm and offers valuable insights into optimizing content for better visibility and engagement.The algorithm, contrary to popular belief, evaluates videos on an individual basis rather than assessing the overall performance of a channel. This approach ensures that a single off-topic viral video or a poorly received video does not adversely affect the channel's standing with the algorithm. Todd emphasizes the importance of aligning content with audience interests to maintain and enhance video performance.One of the most enlightening points made during the discussion is the concept that YouTube does not push videos to viewers; instead, it pulls videos based on viewer preferences. This viewer-centric approach means that the algorithm is activated when a user visits YouTube, making recommendations based on the user's history, device, and other contextual factors. Such insights underscore the importance for creators to focus on creating content that resonates with their audience, rather than trying to game the system.Another key takeaway is the algorithm's persistent support for videos, regardless of their immediate performance. Todd reassures creators that a video's success is not confined to its initial launch period. YouTube continues to recommend videos over time, adapting to shifts in viewer interests and trends. This perspective encourages creators to remain patient and not to disregard videos that do not perform well initially.The conversation also touches on the dynamics of content strategy, highlighting the necessity for creators to adapt to changing viewer preferences, such as the rising popularity of short-form content. Recognizing and responding to these shifts, and understanding the competitive landscape, can significantly influence a creator's success on the platform.Creators are advised to analyze their content's performance, especially how it's received by subscribers, to identify areas for improvement. This process can help pinpoint issues related to content packaging or delivery that might affect viewer engagement.In summary, the discussion between Renee and Todd sheds light on the operational principles of YouTube's algorithm, debunking myths and providing creators with a clearer path to optimizing their content strategy. Understanding that the algorithm favors content that meets viewer demands and preferences can empower creators to produce more engaging and successful videos.3. Local Services Ads Verification to Combat Spam - On March 4, 2024, Google updated the verification process for Local Services Ads (LSAs), aimed at enhancing security and trustworthiness among users and advertisers. This update, first rolling out in smaller U.S. states and progressively expanding to larger ones throughout the year, introduces a stringent verification procedure that includes identity checks alongside the existing license verifications for professionals featured in LSAs, such as lawyers.The revised verification process is Google's response to the growing concern over spam and fraudulent activities within the LSA program. By enforcing identity verification, Google intends to safeguard consumers from impersonators posing as licensed professionals. This move ensures that only verified business owners or senior partners, along with their affiliated professionals, are eligible to appear in LSAs, thereby enhancing the integrity of the ads shown to users.Affected advertisers are notified via email, with instructions on completing the verification process through Google's partner, Evident. Failure to comply within a specified timeframe results in the removal of the ads from search results, impacting the visibility and potential reach of the business. This initiative reflects Google's commitment to improving the LSA ecosystem, protecting both consumers and legitimate advertisers from the adverse effects of deceptive practices.4. "Solutions": Google Ads' Latest Innovation to Streamline Ad Management - Google Ads has announced "Solutions." This new tool is designed to simplify and automate the management of Google Ads accounts, offering a seamless experience for advertisers. Accessible for free under the "Tools" section in Google Ads, Solutions empowers users with the ability to generate comprehensive reports, automate basic management tasks, and much more, all tailored to enhance campaign performance relative to business goals. Here is what you can do with it:Filter your data by campaign, ad group, keyword, or other dimensionsSet flexible budgetsManage negative keyword lists throughout your accountSort your data by any metricExport your reports to a variety of formats, including CSV and XLSXSolutions help you to create automated and customized workflows without making changes to the code. Solutions are accessible for all advertisers and don't require technical skills or coding knowledge. Here are the types of solutions:Account summary: Generates a report of the performance for a Google Ads accountAd performance: Generates a Google Spreadsheet with distribution charts showing an ad's performanceAccount anomaly detector: Sends out an email when an account's performance stats deviate significantly

Episode 201 contains the Digital Marketing News and Updates from the week of Feb 26 - Mar 1, 2024.1. ‘How Google Search Crawls Pages' - In a comprehensive video from, Google engineer Gary Illyes sheds light on how Google's search engine discovers and fetches web pages through a process known as crawling.  Crawling is the first step in making a webpage searchable. Google uses automated programs, known as crawlers, to find new or updated pages. The cornerstone of this process is URL discovery, where Google identifies new pages by following links from known pages. This method highlights the importance of having a well-structured website with effective internal linking, ensuring that Google can discover and index new content efficiently.A key tool in enhancing your website's discoverability is the use of sitemaps. These are XML files that list your site's URLs along with additional metadata. While not mandatory, sitemaps are highly recommended as they significantly aid Google and other search engines in finding your content. For business owners, this means working with your website provider or developer to ensure your site automatically generates sitemap files, saving you time and reducing the risk of errors.Googlebot, Google's main crawler, uses algorithms to decide which sites to crawl, how often, and how many pages to fetch. This process is delicately balanced to avoid overloading your website, with the speed of crawling adjusted based on your site's response times, content quality, and server health. It's crucial for businesses to maintain a responsive and high-quality website to facilitate efficient crawling.Moreover, Googlebot only indexes publicly accessible URLs, emphasizing the need for businesses to ensure their most important content is not hidden behind login pages. The crawling process concludes with downloading and rendering the pages, allowing Google to see and index dynamic content loaded via JavaScript.2. Is Google Happy with 301+410 Responses? - In a recent discussion on Reddit, a user expressed concerns about their site's "crawl budget" being impacted by a combination of 301 redirects and 410 error responses. This situation involved redirecting non-secure, outdated URLs to their secure counterparts, only to serve a 410 error indicating the page is permanently removed. The user wondered if this approach was hindering Googlebot's efficiency and contributing to crawl budget issues.Google's John Mueller provided clarity, stating that using a mix of 301 redirects (which guide users from HTTP to HTTPS versions of a site) followed by 410 errors is acceptable. Mueller emphasized that crawl budget concerns primarily affect very large sites, as detailed in Google's documentation. If a smaller site experiences crawl issues, it likely stems from Google's assessment of the site's value rather than technical problems. This suggests the need for content evaluation to enhance its appeal to Googlebot.Mueller's insights reveal a critical aspect of SEO; the creation of valuable content. He criticizes common SEO strategies that replicate existing content, which fails to add value or originality. This approach, likened to producing more "Zeros" rather than unique "Ones," implies that merely duplicating what's already available does not improve a site's worth in Google's eyes.For business owners, this discussion underlines the importance of focusing on original, high-quality content over technical SEO manipulations. While ensuring your site is technically sound is necessary, the real competitive edge lies in offering something unique and valuable to your audience. This not only aids in standing out in search results but also aligns with Google's preference for indexing content that provides new information or perspectives.In summary, while understanding the technicalities of SEO, such as crawl budgets and redirects, is important, the emphasis should be on content quality. Businesses should strive to create original content that answers unmet needs or provides fresh insights. This approach not only helps with better indexing by Google but also engages your audience more effectively, driving organic traffic and contributing to your site's long-term success.3. UTM Parameters & SEO - Google's John Mueller emphasized that disallowing URLs with UTM parameters does not significantly enhance a website's search performance. Instead, he advocates for maintaining clean and consistent internal URLs to ensure optimal site hygiene and efficiency in tracking.Mueller's advice is straightforward: focus on improving the site's structure to minimize the need for Google to crawl irrelevant URLs. This involves refining internal linking strategies, employing rel-canonical tags judiciously, and ensuring consistency in URLs across feeds. The goal is to streamline site management and make it easier to track user interactions and traffic sources without compromising on SEO performance.A notable point Mueller makes is regarding the handling of external links with UTM parameters. He advises against blocking these through robots.txt, suggesting that rel-canonical tags will effectively manage these over time, aligning external links with the site's canonical URL structure. This approach not only simplifies the cleanup of random parameter URLs but also reinforces the importance of direct management at the source. For instance, if a site generates random parameter URLs internally or through feed submissions, the priority should be to address these issues directly rather than relying on robots.txt to block them.In summary, Mueller's guidance underscores the importance of website hygiene and the strategic use of SEO tools like rel-canonical tags to manage URL parameters effectively. His stance is clear: maintaining a clean website is crucial, but blocking external URLs with random parameters is not recommended. This advice aligns with Mueller's consistent approach to SEO best practices, emphasizing the need for site owners to focus on foundational site improvements and efficient management of URL parameters for better search visibility and tracking.4. Transition Required for Google Business Profile Websites - Google has announced that starting in March 2024, websites created through Google Business Profiles (GBP) will be deactivated, with an automatic redirect to the businesses' Google Business Profile in place until June 10, 2024. This move requires immediate attention from GBP website owners to ensure continuity in their online operations.For businesses unsure if their website is hosted through Google Business Profiles, a simple search on Google for their business name and accessing the edit function of their Google Business Profile will reveal if their website is a GBP creation. It's indicated by a message stating, “You have a website created with Google.” For those without a GBP website, the option to link an external site will be available.In response to this change, Google has recommended several alternative website builders for affected businesses. Among the suggested platforms are Wix, Squarespace, GoDaddy, Google Sites, Shopify (specifically for e-commerce), Durable, Weebly, Strikingly, and WordPress. Each offers unique features, with WordPress notable for its free website builder incorporating generative AI capabilities. However, users should be aware ...

Episode 200 contains the Digital Marketing News and Updates from the week of Feb 19 -23, 2024.1. Google : You Decide On The Fate Of Your Old Content - The question of what to do with old content on your website is a recurring dilemma. Google's John Mueller recently shed light on this topic, emphasizing the importance of self-assessment over stringent guidelines when deciding the fate of outdated material. His insights, shared on Reddit, underscore the value of content quality and relevance over mere word counts.It's Your Call: Mueller makes it clear that Google does not dictate the utility of old content. The decision to keep, remove, or update it rests with the website owner. He states, "There is no upper / lower word count limit or target...So what's useful & helpful content is up to you to decide."Unique Content Holds Value: Drawing from his personal viewpoint, Mueller suggests that unique news archives, for instance, can serve a purpose. This highlights the potential worth of specialized content that may cater to niche audiences.Hybrid Approaches: For content that's not actively serving your main site's goals but still holds value, Mueller proposes a middle ground. He recommends relocating such content to an archive section with a 'noindex' tag. This method preserves the content for internal search purposes, allowing you to gauge its ongoing relevance through user engagement metrics.Quality Over Quantity: Echoing a sentiment relevant to all content creators, Mueller reminds us that the significance of content is not inherently tied to its popularity. He posits, "Something can be useful even if only a few people read it," challenging the notion that only widely viewed content is valuable.This guidance from a Google insider offers a fresh perspective on managing old content. Business owners should view their content through the lens of utility and uniqueness, rather than adhering to arbitrary standards. By evaluating content's relevance to your audience and considering creative archiving solutions, you can enhance your website's value without compromising on quality or cluttering your digital space.In essence, the approach to old content should be strategic and thoughtful, tailored to your business's unique needs and the interests of your audience. This mindset not only aligns with Google's advice but also paves the way for a more engaging and resourceful online presence.2. Clarifying the Use of Google's Indexing API - John Mueller, from Google, reiterated the intended use and limitations of the Google Indexing API, shedding light on its appropriate application. This clarification comes amid ongoing discussions within the digital marketing community about leveraging the API beyond its official capacities. Mueller's comments aim to guide and inform website owners and digital marketers about the proper use of this tool.The Google Indexing API is designed with a specific purpose: to facilitate the indexing of job posting and live stream content on Google. This narrow scope is intended to streamline the process for these particular types of content, ensuring they are promptly recognized and indexed by Google's search engine.Despite clear guidelines, there exists a trend where the Indexing API is applied to content types it wasn't designed for. Some users report temporary success in speeding up the indexing process for other types of content. However, Mueller warns, "it's great to see passionate people try to do more with it, but a) it's often for spam & low-quality, and b) it's not supported." Essentially, while experimentation is noted, it's often associated with low-quality outputs and is not officially endorsed by Google.Mueller's stance emphasizes the API's limitations and discourages attempts to use it beyond its intended purpose, stating plainly, "So you can keep trying to use it but hey, it won't work." This serves as a reminder that while innovation is valued, adherence to Google's guidelines ensures the longevity and visibility of content within its search ecosystem.Attempting to exploit the Indexing API for unintended purposes may yield brief results but could ultimately lead to content being dropped from the index or associated with spam.3. Structured Data Support for Product Variants - Google has rolled out structured data support for Product variants. This move, building on the previous expansions in 2022 for Product structured data and the addition of shipping and returns data in 2023, marks a new milestone in enhancing online shopping experiences. Structured Data Support for Product Variants enables merchants to showcase a wider array of product variations, offering shoppers more relevant and detailed results directly in search. Products often come in various options, such as size, color, material, or technical specifications like memory size and processor type. Recognizing this, Google's latest update facilitates the representation of these product variants in search results through the use of structured data. By adopting the Schema.org ProductGroup type for your product listings, you can now make your product variants eligible for enhanced visibility in Google Search.For business owners, the ability to display product variants more prominently in Google Search can significantly enhance product discovery and customer engagement. By providing detailed variant information directly in search results, you can improve the shopping experience for your customers, potentially leading to higher conversion rates.4. New Google Merchant Center Requirement: Tagging AI-Generated Images - Google has introduced a new requirement for businesses leveraging AI-generated images in their Merchant Center listings. This change mandates the preservation of specific metadata tags within AI-created imagery, aiming to maintain transparency about the origin of these images.When you use AI to generate images for your product listings in Merchant Center, Google now requires that these images retain their original metadata tags, specifically indicating their AI-generated nature. This requirement is centered around the 'trainedAlgorithmicMedia' tag under the IPTC DigitalSourceType category, a standard for photo metadata. This tag serves as a clear marker that the image was created by generative AI technologies.By ensuring these AI-generated images are appropriately tagged, Google aims to foster an environment of transparency and authenticity within the digital marketplace. This move is particularly relevant in a time when the distinction between AI-generated and traditionally created content is becoming increasingly nuanced.Action StepsReview your AI-generated images in Merchant Center for compliance.Ensure all AI-generated images include the 'trainedAlgorithmicMedia' IPTC tag.Educate your team about this requirement to prevent future oversights.Compliance with these requirements not only aligns with Google's standards but also signals to your customers that you value honesty and transparency in your digital marketing practices. As AI continues to play a significant role in ecommerce, understanding and implementing these guidelines will be crucial for maintaining a competi...

There's always news in the world of digital marketing... and today is no different. In this episode of the Digital Marketing Podcast we explore Performance Max search themes and how they can be leveraged for max performance in your campaigns. We also discuss the latest changes to core web vitals and how this will impact your website's performance metrics, as well as the shift in multi-channel marketing strategies. ---- Show notes:  Have feedback on the show? We really would love to hear from you. , tell us what you love and what you think could be better. And, if you are really enjoying the show, please 

In this episode, we delve into the latest developments in Google's local search landscape. We kick off with an exploration of Google's Search Generative Experience (SGE), a new AI-driven feature that's reshaping local search results. We discuss its potential impact on residential contractors and how businesses can adapt to this closed-loop system. Next, we tackle the issue of missing reviews on Google. We share insights from a new process that Google has introduced for reporting missing reviews, a critical aspect of digital marketing for home improvement businesses. We discuss the importance of reviews in reputation management, rankings, and revenue generation. We then shift our focus to the ethical acquisition of reviews. We discuss why businesses should avoid soliciting reviews in exchange for donations and the implications of Google's E-A-T (Expertise, Authoritativeness, Trustworthiness) concept on review acquisition strategies. Finally, we discuss a new development in Google Business Profile management - the introduction of text-based confirmations. We explore how this change can help businesses verify their profiles more efficiently and the implications for local search visibility. Join us as we navigate these changes and provide actionable tips for residential contractors to optimize their digital marketing strategies in the evolving local search landscape. Read the full article here: https://moz.com/blog/local-search-developments-q2-2023 www.contractorgrowthnetwork.com

Welcome back to another news digest episode for June 2023! Artificial Intelligence is moving faster than ever and we have updates for you on Google AI Search, the rise in podcasting, 3rd party cookies, AI chat search and much more. With lots of popular and upcoming trends this is not one to miss. The nominations for The Digital Marketing Toolkit Awards are also now open! Visit and nominate your favourite digital marketing tool for its chance to win one of our bespoke, beautifully designed trophies!