Local SEO and Marketing Q&A Session January 31, 2025

Each week, Greg and Ben answer your questions on digital marketing for local businesses … local search engine optimization (SEO), Google Business Profile, social media, email marketing, websites, online advertising and more.

Click here for video.

This Week’s Updates and Questions

  • Google Map pin attacks exploit has finally been fixed.
  • Chat through Text and WhatsApp has been implemented into GBP.
  • China rolls out DeepSeek AI chatbot.
  • New fast way to get access request for SABs in Google Maps.
  • Google search launches “Ask for me” AI that calls businesses for you.
  • What is the new chat feature?
  • How do I remove spam reviews from my GBP?
  • What should I do if my reinstatement appeal has been rejected multiple times?
  • If I’m closing one location, is it possible to merge the profile of the closing location with the other in order to keep the reviews?
  • Can I verify a GBP if the location is at a residential sober living home without signage?
  • Why is my GBP not showing up in search results?
  • How can I shift my business into a new name and category without getting suspended?
  • How does the new “Ask for me” AI work?
  • Does adding backlinks to the schema “sameAs” code work?
  • Should I link to my GBP from my blog?
  • Are there resources for the process of uploading internal 360 virtual tours to GBP?

Links from This Week’s Session