If you have recently changed the name of your business, but your business has not moved locations or changed ownership, then you should update your business name in Google Business Profile (formerly Google My Business).

Below are some steps to take to ensure that reviews stay after a business name change:

Update Your Business Name Gradually

• Google may flag drastic changes, so update your business name first on your website and social media, then gradually update your online listings.

Keep Your Business Identity Consistent

• Keep the same business location, phone number, and website URL if possible. This will help platforms verify that your business is the same entity.
• Clearly communicate the name change on your website, social media, and listings.

Document the Name Change

• Keep a record of legal documents in case you need them to verify the change with review platforms.

It’s important that you follow the steps outlined above after changing the name of your business. If you create and verify a new business listing, rather than simply updating your business name in the Google Business Profile dashboard, then Google may not retain your existing reviews.

If you do end up with two listings and feel the need to migrate reviews from one to the other, you can submit a request to Google to transfer your reviews.

Final Tip: Consider using a listing management platform like SOCi to update your business info across multiple sites quickly and consistently.

Changing your name doesn’t have to mean starting over. With a strategic approach, your reviews—and your customers—can move with you.

The post How to Keep Your Reviews After a Business Name Change appeared first on SOCi.

A brand’s reputation isn’t just a reflection of customer sentiment—it’s a core driver of business performance. Today, according to our own 2025 Consumer Behavior Index, 87% of consumers regularly read online reviews before choosing a local business, and 77% will only consider brands with at least a 3-star rating or higher. In other words, your reputation determines whether you’re even in the running.

For multi-location brands, the stakes are even higher. With reviews, listings, and social posts scattered across platforms, consistent reputation management is essential to ensuring customers find the right information—and feel confident acting on it.

What Is Reputation Management?

Reputation management refers to the practice of monitoring, influencing, and improving how your brand is perceived online—especially through reviews, social media, and local search profiles.

It involves everything from tracking review sites and social channels to responding thoughtfully to customer feedback and proactively encouraging positive content. The goal isn’t just to control perception—it’s to authentically build trust through transparency, responsiveness, and consistency.

In 2025, reputation management has expanded to include:

• Real-time monitoring of multiple review and social platforms
• Sentiment analysis powered by AI
• Proactive customer engagement strategies
• Integration with SEO and local marketing efforts

Core Benefits of Effective Reputation Management

1. Improved Brand Trust and Loyalty

A strong online reputation builds credibility with both existing and potential customers. In competitive industries like hospitality, healthcare, and retail, trust can be a key differentiator.

2. Enhanced Local Search Visibility

Google’s local algorithm weighs factors like review volume, response rates, and listing accuracy. Managing reviews and keeping profiles updated improves rankings in local packs and map results.

3. Increased Customer Acquisition

Consumers are more likely to click, call, or visit a business with consistently high ratings and visible, authentic interactions. It’s not just about being found—it’s about being chosen.

4. Operational Insights

Reviews often surface themes about product quality, employee performance, or location-specific issues. These insights can guide operational improvements that ultimately reduce complaints and increase satisfaction.

5. Crisis Prevention and Management

Timely responses and escalation protocols help brands address negative reviews before they spiral. When handled correctly, even complaints can be turned into positive moments.

How Reviews Impact Visibility and Conversions

The link between reviews and business performance is well documented:

• Businesses with higher review volumes and faster response rates experience more clicks, calls, and conversions.
• 41% of consumers say they’re more likely to choose a business that responds to reviews, according to our 2024 CBI.
• Inaccurate or outdated listing information drives nearly half of customers to choose a competitor.

A 2025 Forbes analysis of Aberdeen data reports that companies with structured customer feedback and engagement strategies can increase retention by up to 55%, while organizations using real-time feedback systems are 33% more likely to retain customers.

The Key Components of a Modern Reputation Management Strategy

1. Review Monitoring and Response at Scale

Tracking and replying to reviews across platforms like Google, Yelp, Facebook, and industry-specific sites is foundational. But scale demands automation—especially for multi-location brands.

Timely, authentic responses not only improve customer satisfaction but also boost visibility in local search. Whether you’re using manual workflows or AI-assisted tools, review response processes should be consistent and localized.

2. Sentiment Analysis and Actionable Insights

Analyzing review content helps surface trends and problem areas. Whether it’s a service issue in a specific region or recurring feedback on a product, this data can inform changes across teams.

Many modern platforms provide sentiment tagging, keyword alerts, and performance dashboards to help you connect the dots between feedback and operations.

3. Leveraging Review Content for SEO

Google prioritizes fresh, relevant content—including reviews. A steady stream of recent, positive reviews can:

• Enhance local rankings
• Support voice search queries
• Drive engagement from search result snippets

Encouraging customers to leave reviews and responding with keyword-relevant replies can boost discoverability.

4. Integrating Social Media Listening and Response

Brand reputation is shaped not only by review sites but by how your brand engages on social platforms. Responding to DMs, comments, and tagged posts signals that you’re active and listening.

Consumers—especially Gen Z—use social platforms like Instagram and TikTok as discovery tools. Consistent, thoughtful interaction is critical to maintaining a healthy reputation there.

5. Using AI to Scale Trust, Not Just Tasks

AI is transforming reputation management by:

• Drafting review replies that reflect brand tone
• Prioritizing reviews based on urgency or sentiment
• Automating escalation workflows for low-rated feedback

But AI’s real value lies in its ability to deliver consistent, timely, and relevant interactions at scale. When implemented thoughtfully, it supports a stronger brand voice and improves the customer experience by ensuring that every review gets a high-quality response.

Reputation Management Tools for Multi-Location Brands

Multi-location businesses face unique challenges—volume, consistency, and visibility across regions. Traditional approaches simply don’t scale.

SOCi’s Genius Agents offer one approach to this challenge, enabling:

• AI-powered responses that match brand voice
• Smart alerts and escalation workflows
• Integrated social content publishing
• Custom reporting across all locations

Real-World Results:

• Tower Loan cut review response times by 24 hours and grew total reviews by 150%.
• Southern Rock Restaurants responded to 107,000 historical reviews and improved Facebook post engagement by 88% in just 30 days.
• Anchor Pacifica increased responses to reviews by 110% and saved 8–10 hours of staff time weekly.

Final Takeaway: Reputation Is Revenue

Your online reputation isn’t a passive outcome—it’s a competitive asset that can be actively shaped. With the right strategy, tools, and processes, brands can turn feedback into growth, complaints into loyalty, and visibility into conversions.

Want to see what a modern reputation strategy can really do? Read how Southern Rock Restaurants boosted engagement across 156 locations with SOCi Genius Agents—and imagine the same results for your brand.

Ready to transform your brand’s reputation into a competitive advantage?
Request a demo and discover how SOCi Genius Agents help multi-location brands like yours to scale your reputation management strategy.

The post What Is Reputation Management? A 2025 Guide for Multi-Location Brands appeared first on SOCi.

Courtesy of Meta

In this article, we’ll explain what Instagram broadcast channels are, their primary benefits, and expected updates to keep an eye on.

What are Instagram Broadcast Channels?

When Zuckerberg and Meta initially announced broadcast channels, they referred to it as a “one-to-many” messaging tool. Broadcast channels allow Instagram users with a “creator” account, which we’ll detail below, to invite all of their followers to their channel. From there, creators can share:

• Text, images, videos, or voice updates
• Polls
• Links
• Question prompts to collect questions for an AMA (Ask Me Anything)

Courtesy of Instagram

What is the Purpose of Broadcast Channels?

Think of broadcast channels as a way for creators to interact in a more private manner with ardent supporters. Broadcast channels give loyal followers a behind-the-scenes look into the public figures or influencers they cherish and the ability to receive updates from these figures.

FAQs About Broadcast Channels

Below are some of the most frequently asked questions about Instagram broadcast channels. These questions and answers will give you more insight into how broadcast channels work and their main benefits.

1. Can Users Post in Broadcast Channels?

Users can’t post in broadcast channels. However, users can react to a creator’s messages with emojis, can vote in polls, and can submit questions for AMAs.

2. How Can I Find Broadcast Channels?

Although you can access Instagram on desktops, Instagram broadcast channels are only available via the Instagram app. There are two primary ways to join an Instagram broadcast channel:

Instagram notifications

If a creator you follow starts a broadcast channel, you’ll get a notification on your phone’s screen where you can join their channel. From there, you’ll be brought to a creator’s broadcast channel and will have the ability to join it, as seen in the image below.

Courtesy of Instagram

Instagram bio links

If someone you follow already has a broadcast channel and you missed the notification, you’ll see two small chat icons and text in their Instagram bio. This symbol and descriptive text is their broadcast channel. Once you click on the graphic, you’ll have the ability to join the channel.

Users can also join broadcast channels through the creator’s direct messages. After opening DMs on Instagram, if you follow a creator with a broadcast channel, there will be a message request or notification banner from them asking to join the channel.

Below is an example of Adam Mosseri’s Instagram profile. As the Head of Instagram, his broadcast channel is fittingly named “IG Updates.”

3. How to Get Broadcast Channel Notifications

As noted above, if a creator you follow starts a broadcast channel, you’ll get notified to join their channel. Once you have joined the creator’s channel, you’ll get his or her broadcast channel notifications.

You’ll only receive broadcast channel notifications if you follow a creator and subscribe to their broadcast channel.

4. Who Can Create a Broadcast Channel?

Currently, broadcast channels are only available for Instagram creators. Creator accounts are primarily for individual creators building a personal brand or looking to monetize from their brand, such as:

• Public figures
• Influencers
• Content producers
• Artists
• Athletes
• Solo entrepreneurs
• Educators

 You do not need a verified account of minimum follower count to create a channel. If you’re unsure if you qualify for a creator account on Instagram, visit Instagram’s help page to see if you can set up a creator account. If not, you’ll have to contact Instagram directly.

Current and Upcoming Features

Below are a few recent updates and features being tested that creators can utilize to get the most out of their broadcast channels:

• Replies and Prompts: Creators can enable replies on their channels, allowing followers to respond to messages and interact with comments in a similar way to standard posts. This feature allows creators to post time sensitive questions, getting replies from followers within 24 hours. This update has turned broadcast channels into more interactive spaces.
• Enhanced Analytics: Instagram has improved analytics for channels, giving creators insights into metrics like total interactions, story shares, and poll participation.
• Scheduled Direct Messages: Creators can plan and automate direct messages to their broadcast channels.
• Monetization: Creators can offer exclusive content to dedicated subscribers for a monthly fee.
• Subscribers only:Instagram has a paid subscription feature, where your most loyal followers pay to get exclusive content. Instagram is already testing a paid subscription version broadcast channel to limit your most exclusive content to paid subscribers.
  
• Collaboration: Collaborate with fans or other content creators. This helps users follow conversations between their favorite creators or see guest appearances.
• Links to broadcast channels: Currently, Instagram allows creators to put links to their broadcast channels in their stories and potentially elsewhere in the future.
• Expiration dates and times: Instagram is considering allowing creators to have temporary broadcast channels with set expiration dates and times.
• Adding moderators: The social media company is exploring adding moderators to channels to help manage members and content.
• Expanding platforms: Although Meta first introduced broadcast channels to Instagram, the company plans to test the new feature in Facebook and Messenger in the coming months.

Improve Your Local Social Strategy

Social media platforms constantly evolve to meet companies’ and peoples’ needs. This change makes social media marketing challenging but also exciting. SOCi can help!

For example, our weekly Local Memo posts share the latest in localized marketing and often cover relevant social media news and platform updates. 

You can subscribe to the Local Memo at the bottom of any of our Local Memo blogs. Start taking your local social and localized marketing efforts to the next level.

The post Instagram Broadcast Channels: Everything You Need to Know appeared first on SOCi.

One way to make your Business Profile easily recognizable is by adding your business’s logo. In this article, we’ll explain how to add or remove your Google Business Profile logo.

How to Add a Google Business Profile Logo

Below are step-by-step instructions to upload a logo photo to your Business Profile.

Step 1: Log into your Google Business Profile.

Step 2: Click the ‘add photo’ icon.

Step 3: Next, select ‘Logo’ from the drop-down menu.

Step 4: Then, upload your logo photo from your computer.

Step 5: Rotate or crop the image to your liking. Once satisfied, click the blue ‘set as profile photo’ button in the bottom-left corner of your screen. You’ve set your Business Profile logo.

Here’s an example of what your Business Profile logo will look like online.

Google Business Profile Logo Image Specs + Tips

Follow these guidelines to ensure that you have the highest quality logo photo.

• Format: PNG or JPG
• Size: Between 10 KB and 5 MB
• Ideal resolution: 720 px tall, 720 px wide
• Minimum resolution: 250 px tall, 250 px wide

Lastly, your logo should be a clean image with no excessive filters or overlays. Also, ensure that your logo photo adheres to Google’s photos and videos content policy.

Changing Your Google Business Profile Logo

If your business goes through a rebranding process and updates its logo,  you must change all your Business Profiles’ logos to ensure customers can easily recognize your new logo and branding.

To change your Business Profile’s logo, simply follow the steps listed above to set a new logo.

If you need help managing your GBPs and other listings across all major platforms, check out SOCi Genius Search.

Genius Search uses advanced AI to automate marketing tasks effortlessly across locations in one robust listing management tool.

For more Google Business Profile photo tips, read our blog on how to make your GBP more visually appealing or how to remove photos from your GBP.

The post How to Add or Change Your Google Business Profile Logo appeared first on SOCi.

The generative AI tool can have human-like conversations with users and quickly answer questions or assist users with tasks. Not only can it respond in multiple languages, but it can also help write or fix code.

Despite its impressive abilities, there are a few significant constraints to ChatGPT. Below, we’ll detail eight of the most common ChatGPT limitations. We’ll also explain how you can overcome some of these constraints and use ChatGPT to your advantage.

1. Limited Internet Access For Free Users

The free version of ChatGPT (GPT-3.5) has internet usage caps, which run out after roughly 10 free GPT-4o messages every 3 hours. Therefore, after the software reverts to GPT-3.5, it isn’t aware of nor can it discuss current events, give you weather forecasts, or tell you current stock prices. We recommend fact-checking ChatGPT’s responses against search engine results to ensure accuracy.

2. Difficulty With Long-form Structured Content

Currently, ChatGPT has challenges generating long-form structured content. Although you can have ChatGPT write to a specific word count, the responses will often repeat earlier points unless told not to. The generative AI model struggles with structure and format, sometimes giving list-type points.

3. Provides Biased Answers

One of the main limitations is that ChatGPT’s data is from web scraping knowledge databases, social media, and open data sources. Many of these often derive from humans. Therefore, it has the potential to pick up biased and sometimes prejudiced data. For instance, the AI system can include demographic, confirmation, and sampling biases.

4. Difficulty Understanding the Context

Speaking of bias, the AI model can’t understand specific contexts like humans can, such as sarcasm, humor, or irony. If you add sarcasm to a query, ChatGPT might not understand it and will give you a straightforward answer. Long conversations in ChatGPT may need reminders or reiteration.

5. Can’t Ask Clarifying Questions

ChatGPT can’t seek clarifications for ambiguous queries. ChatGPT will often guess the most probable response based on the provided context if the input is unclear. That said, if necessary, you can invite ChatGPT to ask for clarification in the initial prompt. Here’s an example of how to include a clarifying question in your prompt:

“I am a multi-location marketer overseeing 65 restaurant franchisees. Can you advise me on improving my local stores’ online reputation management? Feel free to ask any questions you need (1 at a time) for more information.”

6. Often Responds in List Forms

As mentioned when discussing long-form content, without the proper guidance, ChatGPT’s responses will often be in list forms. For instance, it’ll give a general overview of the topic, and then it’ll define certain terms and give recommendations. Here’s an example:

7. Long Sentences and Grammatical Issues

ChatGPT sometimes writes in longer prose unless prompted otherwise. ChatGPT sometimes produces run-on sentences by connecting too many clauses with conjunctions. Its sensitivity to grammatical errors, typos, and misspellings is limited as well.

8. Accuracy Issues

There are cases where ChatGPT will have “hallucinations”, where it generates incorrect information and delivers it with a confident tone as if it were factual. ChatGPT also rarely admits uncertainty, making it difficult to identify when information is incorrect. According to MMLU data, ChatGPT 4-o is said to be 88.7% accurate, which is more accurate than the previous versions.

It is always important to fact-check responses given by ChatGPT to ensure accuracy.

How to Ensure ChatGPT Provides Superior Answers

We’ve listed eight limitations of ChatGPT. However, there are tricks and skills you can implement to help counteract some of these limitations. Here are a few:

Review responses: We’ve noted this several times already, but it’s essential that a human review ChatGPT’s responses before relying on them in your work or publishing them. Fact-check responses and check for grammatical errors.

Give better prompts: We recommend giving ChatGPT detailed information when creating a prompt. Here are some tips to generate more accurate and creative responses:

• Give ChatGPT a role or persona, such as “You’re a world-class local SEO expert who has been in the industry for over a decade and has a background in persuasive writing. Now, write [prompt].”
• You can limit prose by simply putting a word count, such as “Keep the response under 75 words,” or ask ChatGPT to limit prose.
• Explain how you want the response to be written, such as “Please write in paragraphs no longer than two to three sentences. Keep the response persuasive and to the point.”
• Specify what you do and don’t want in the response by specifying elements you want and what to avoid including.

Here’s an example of a prompt putting all of these tips together:

“You’re a world-class local SEO expert who has been in the industry for over a decade and has a background in persuasive writing. Can you explain to me how local SEO affects multi-location businesses? Your response should contain three paragraphs with one to three sentences in each paragraph.”

SOCi is purpose-built for multi-location brands, combining powerful AI tools and proven expertise to help you manage, scale, and optimize your local presence.

Request a demo today to see how SOCi can transform your marketing across every location.

The post The 8 Main Limitations of ChatGPT appeared first on SOCi.

42% of consumers use unbranded, generic search terms, which means that it’s essential to have a complete GBP to gain visibility. 71% of people consider photos and videos to be a priority when choosing a local business.

The data speaks for itself. As a multi-location business, each location must have a complete Business Profile. High-quality imagery is a great way to make your Business Profiles stand out, but what happens when you need to remove a photo? 

The data speaks for itself. As a multi-location business, each location must have a complete Business Profile. High-quality imagery is a great way to make your Business Profiles stand out, but what happens when you need to remove a photo?

This article will take you through the steps to remove a photo from your GBP. 

Photos on Google Business Profile 

If you’re not familiar with optimizing your Business Profiles and making them more visually appealing, here’s a quick refresher. Understanding the requirements for visuals and how to upload them is as important as how to remove them. 

It’s also worth mentioning that as a multi-location business, it’s crucial to ensure each location has its own optimized Business Profile. Check out our in-depth guide to optimizing your local Business Profiles for more details.

The image below is a great example of SOCi customer Jersey Mike’s Subs utilizes high-quality photos in a well-optimized Business Profile. 

Removing a Photo From Your Business Profile

Now that we’ve covered the basics, let’s learn how to remove a photo uploaded by your business. There are a few quick and easy steps you’ll need to follow. 

1. Go to your Business Profile for the location you want a photo removed from. 
2. Select “Your Photos” and then select “By Owner.” 
3. Click on the photos you want to remove.
4. Find the trash icon and click it. Next, click “Remove” to confirm.

Note, you will only see the trash icon for photos that the Business Profile owner added. 

Only customer photos that violate content guidelines or the law can be removed. 

To request the removal of customer photos, your business must: 

1. Log into your Business Profile.
2. Type in the name of your business in the search bar of Google Search.
3. Select “See More Photos” and find the photo you want to remove. 
4. At the top right of the photo, you’ll be able to click “Report a Problem.” 
5. Select the type of violation you’d like to report, and click “Report.” 

You can follow the same process for removing a photo on Google Maps, but the “Report a Problem” is a small flag icon instead of a trash can. Remember, it’s important only to report photos that actually violate Google’s content guidelines and photos and videos criteria.

Level Up Your Local Search Efforts 

As a multi-location marketer, paying attention to the photos displayed on your Business Profiles is essential. The photos should accurately reflect each business location, so a consumer can picture what to expect when visiting. 

Ensure that corporate and local teams are on the same page regarding who is responsible for keeping local Business Profiles optimized and paying attention to photos that may need removal. With 100s or 1,000s of business locations, this can be challenging. Learn how SOCi Listings can help. 

The post How to Remove Photos from Google Business Profile appeared first on SOCi.

Ranking in the Google Map Pack is important for all businesses, but especially for enterprises that operate at the local level. Consumers often skip results that don’t meet their search parameters for a specific location. If the first search result that comes up for an enterprise business is a primary brand website, then the chances of that link getting clicked are low.

What is the Google Map Pack and Why is it Important?

Google Map Pack is a set of three Google Maps-based results that will often appear when users conduct local searches for businesses. Within the Map Pack, users see a business’ Google reviews and overall star-rating, a brief business summary, the business address, hours, pricing information, and featured photos. Map Pack links display ahead of traditional link-based search results. Since only the most highly-ranked businesses are featured in the Map Pack results, competition is fierce. 

Eighty-seven percent of mobile phone owners use a search engine daily, and according to Google, ‌mobile searches for “best place to buy” have grown over 70 percent in the past two years. Now, 93% of searches with local intent feature the local 3‑pack at the top of the results. Businesses in the 3‑pack see 93% more actions (calls, website visits, direction requests) compared to listings ranked between 4–10. Being in the Map Pack correlates with a 126% increase in traffic versus non-pack listings. Finally, 88% of consumers use Google Maps to find local businesses—so visibility there is essential.

Google Map Pack occupies the majority of real estate on a mobile phone screen, so when Map Pack shows up, consumers naturally respond. 

How to Appear in Map Pack Results

Google’s algorithms determine which businesses appear in Map Pack results. Although the company is secretive about how top results are selected, there are steps that businesses can take to improve their chances of being featured.

1. Claim your Google Business Profile (formerly Google My Business) listing.
2. Generate more online reviews and develop brand-consistent responses.
3. Build citations, or mentions of your business name on the web.

To learn more about how to optimize your brand presence for Google Map Pack, contact SOCi’s local marketing specialists.

The post What is the Google Map Pack? appeared first on SOCi.

Instagram enables businesses to convert followers into customers via links in bios, stories, posts, Instagram ads, and shopping tags. This guide specifically focuses on optimizing your Instagram bio links to enhance user experience and boost conversions.  

In this article, we’ll focus on links in bios. We explain how to add links to your Instagram bio and where links should send Instagram users.

Adding Multiple Links to Your Instagram Bio

In April 2023, Instagram rolled out the ability to include up to five links directly in your profile bio. Mark Zuckerberg, CEO of Meta, highlighted this feature as “one of the most requested updates.” Previously, marketers relied heavily on third-party apps like Linktree to bypass Instagram’s single-link limitation.

Image Courtesy of Meta

Although Instagram now allows multiple bio links, third-party linking tools still offer advanced analytics, customizable branding, and enhanced functionality. Popular tools marketers continue to use include:

• Linktree: Known for user-friendly interfaces, robust analytics, and customizable branding options.
• Campsite.bio: Offers advanced customization and detailed insights ideal for brands looking for more visual and strategic link presentation.
• Genius Social: Specifically tailored for multi-location enterprises, SOCi’s Genius Social streamlines managing, tracking, and analyzing localized links across multiple social media profiles.

Step-by-Step Instructions: How to Add and Arrange Links

Follow these simple steps to add and arrange multiple links in your Instagram bio:

Step 1: Open Instagram on your mobile device (bio links can only be edited via mobile).

Step 2: Navigate to your profile and tap the “Edit Profile” button located below your bio and follower information.

Step 3: Select “Links”, then choose “Add external link.”

Step 4: Enter your URL and assign it a clear, descriptive title. Repeat this step to add additional links (up to five total).

Step 5: Arrange your links by importance, as Instagram prominently displays only the first link along with a summary count of additional links. Users will see your top link followed by “and [number] others,” prompting them to view the full list.

Best Practices for Bio Links

Optimizing your bio links can significantly impact your marketing results. Here are key strategies for leveraging Instagram bio links effectively:

• Promote Special Offers or Campaigns: Direct followers to limited-time offers, sales pages, or exclusive promotions to drive urgency and conversions.
• Highlight Your Brand Story: Guide users to your “About Us” or mission statement page to deepen their understanding of your brand.
• Feature New Products or Services: Showcase recent launches or upcoming releases through dedicated landing pages.
• Drive Traffic to Valuable Content: Use links to share newly published studies, blog posts, or engaging multimedia content.

Why Use Specialized Bio Link Tools?

Even with Instagram’s native multi-link option, dedicated link-in-bio tools offer distinct advantages:

• Analytics and Tracking: Gain deep insights into link performance and user engagement.
• Customizable Branding: Ensure your links and landing pages align seamlessly with your brand identity.
• Improved User Experience: Provide followers with visually appealing and easy-to-navigate link pages.

For multi-location marketers, SOCi Social is especially advantageous, providing comprehensive management, publication, and analysis tools designed specifically for enterprises with numerous local profiles. With SOCi Social, marketers efficiently handle and optimize localized social media strategies, ensuring consistency and effectiveness across locations.

Ready to Amplify Your Social Discovery?

Remember, today’s consumers aren’t just using traditional searches—they’re scrolling, exploring, and deciding based on the social signals they trust. With 73% of consumers discovering brands through social platforms, optimizing your Instagram presence with clearly arranged, engaging links isn’t just smart—it’s essential. Don’t miss out. Start enhancing your Instagram bio links today and meet your audience exactly where they are—on social.

Download the 2025 Consumer Behavior Index today.

The post How to Add and Arrange Links In Your Instagram Bio appeared first on SOCi.

This shift, championed by companies such as Google and OpenAI, positions AI as a central platform that consumers regularly use to research and discover local businesses.

Since the release of ChatGPT in November 2022, adoption and general interest of AI has steadily grown.

The Basic Components of AI

Artificial intelligence refers to a machine’s capability to perceive, analyze, synthesize, and infer information, performing cognitive functions similar to those of the human mind. AI’s core components include:

1. Learning

Learning allows AI to adapt and improve from experience and data. This involves pattern recognition, data labeling, and feedback loops for reinforcement based on outcomes.

Example: AI-powered local SEO tools continuously learn from user interactions and search patterns to optimize business listings and improve ranking visibility.

2. Reasoning and Decision Making

Reasoning enables AI to use logic, algorithms, and predictive analytics to make informed decisions or inferences from complex datasets.

Example: AI-driven marketing analytics platforms interpreting user behavior and making personalized recommendations for local marketing campaigns.

3. Problem Solving

Problem-solving capabilities enable AI to interpret data, apply analytical processes, and produce solutions tailored to specific business challenges.

Example: Chatbots powered by ChatGPT and Google Gemini resolve customer queries efficiently by understanding context, customer history, and product knowledge.

4. Perception

Perception involves AI’s ability to use sensory inputs to recognize, categorize, and respond to environmental stimuli.

Example: Self-driving cars gather visual data to recognize roads, lanes, and obstacles and then map these objects.  See the example below of a Tesla’s navigational map.

Courtesy of TechCrunch

5. Generative Capability

Generative AI enables autonomous creation of content such as text, images, audio, and video, often indistinguishable from human-produced content.

Example: Large language models (LLMs) like GPT-4 (ChatGPT), Perplexity, and Google Gemini generating human-like written content for blogs, social media posts, and customer engagement communications.

The Five Branches of AI

Below are the five most significant branches or subfields of AI. 

1. Machine Learning

Machine Learning (ML) empowers systems to improve automatically by learning from data without explicit programming.

Example: Location-based advertising platforms predicting optimal marketing channels for different regions based on historical campaign performance.

2. Deep Learning

Deep Learning (DL), a specialized subset of ML, employs artificial neural networks to analyze vast datasets, identifying subtle patterns.

Example: Voice-enabled virtual assistants refining speech recognition and conversational accuracy by continuously analyzing user interactions.

3. Natural Language Processing 

Natural Language Processing (NLP) enables computers to comprehend, interpret, generate, and respond naturally to human language.

Example: Sentiment analysis tools like Perplexity helping businesses monitor brand reputation by analyzing online reviews and social media feedback in real-time.

4. Robotics

Robotics integrates multiple AI technologies (like perception, ML, and NLP) to enable machines to perform tasks autonomously or semi-autonomously.

Example: Delivery robots enhancing local logistics and operations efficiency by automating package distribution within geographic areas.

5. Fuzzy Logic

Fuzzy logic addresses complexities where data isn’t clearly binary, allowing AI to process ambiguous scenarios effectively.

Example: Adaptive traffic control systems managing urban congestion by dynamically adjusting signals based on real-time conditions.

Learn more: What is AI?

Emerging Branches of AI

1. Generative AI

Generative AI specifically refers to AI systems capable of generating original content.

Example: Tools like DALL·E and Midjourney creating customized marketing visuals.

2. Explainable AI (XAI)

Explainable AI (XAI) aims to make AI decision-making transparent and understandable, crucial for automated decisions.

Example: Platforms providing insights into how marketing predictions are calculated, enhancing trust and accountability.

3. Edge AI

Edge AI processes data locally on devices rather than relying on cloud computing, significantly enhancing speed and privacy.

Example: In-store customer interaction systems processing facial recognition data locally for immediate personalized promotions.

4. Large Language Models

Large Language Models (LLMs) are advanced AI models trained on vast amounts of text data, capable of understanding and generating complex human-like text.

Example: Popular consumer LLMs include ChatGPT, Google Gemini, Perplexity, and Claude AI, used for content creation, customer service, market analysis, and personalized marketing communications.

In Summary

Artificial intelligence continues to evolve rapidly, from basic learning and perception to advanced generative, explainable, and large language model capabilities. Digital marketers, particularly those working with multi-location businesses, must stay informed and adaptable, harnessing AI to drive strategic growth and enhance customer engagement.

Interested in integrating AI into your business to automate execution at scale? Read about SOCi Genius to learn how SOCi leverages advanced AI technologies to automate operations, enhance local visibility, and optimize marketing ROI.

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Google Posts, also known as Posts on Google, provides businesses with a convenient way to post text and photos directly to Google Business Profile (formerly Google My Business). The content that you create will appear on the Business Profile and on Google Maps. Posts receive prominent placement in mobile search, and although they function like an ad for your business, they are currently free to use.

The four different types of Google Posts are:

1. Product Posts – Posts that emphasize a specific product that your business sells.
2. What’s New Posts – Posts that provide general information about your business.
3. Event Posts – Posts that promote an event that your business is involved in.
4. Offer Posts – Posts that provide promotional sales or deals from your business.

If you are interested in trying out Google Posts, follow these best practices:

• Google Posts favors timeliness. Most Posts become less prominent after seven days. Event and offer Posts are an exception to this rule, since they can be configured to display for the duration of the event or offer.
• Include a call-to-action (CTA) button in each Post you create. Although Google will provide you with the number of clicks your CTA generated and how many views your Post attracted, it is considered a best practice to use UTM parameters to keep track of the number of visits to your website and subsequent actions, as well.
• Posts work best when they are used to highlight seasonal offers, same-day sales, new product launches, special promotions, emergency updates, open positions, new arrivals, and top products.

If you are actively working to build location authority for your local listings, then posting consistently with Google Posts may help in your efforts. Having organic clicks on your CTA buttons will build your page ranking, since it signals to Google that your content is relevant to users.

If you’re finding it difficult to handle Google Posts for multiple locations, a company like SOCi can help.

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As a multi-location marketer, you’ve likely heard increased conversations around artificial intelligence (AI). While AI has existed for decades, conversational chatbots like OpenAI’s ChatGPT and Google’s Bard have garnered significant attention. 

With all the buzz, you may wonder how to implement these chatbots into your localized marketing efforts. This article will focus on Google’s Bard, explain what it is, how to create an account and share how you can leverage it in your marketing efforts.

A Look Into Google’s Bard 

Bard is Google’s conversational AI tool powered by Google’s LaMDA (Language Model for Dialogue Applications). Google describes Bard as a tool “useful in supporting productivity, creativity, and curiosity — acting as a user’s creative and helpful collaborator.” Google also explains that Bard is experimental and still relies on testers’ and users’ feedback to give more accurate information.

Users can ask Bard a question or request, and Bard will provide thoughtful and human-like answers. Bard can draw its answers from the internet in real-time. 

Now that you understand what Bard is and how it works, let’s explore how to use it!

How to Use Google’s Bard

As a marketer, one of the best ways to start understanding how technologies like Bard work is to start using it. To use Bard, you must have a Google email account. You can access Bard using this link once you sign into your account.  

You can then select “Try Bard,” as seen below. It’s worth noting that if you’re using a Gmail account tied to a Google Workspace (these are often corporate accounts), your admin may have yet to administer access to Bard. If that’s the case, try logging in from a personal Gmail account. 

You’ll then be asked to agree to Bard’s Terms & Privacy. After agreeing, you will reach the page where you can ask Bard a question or request. As of now, Bard is free to all users who are over the age of 18.

Ways Marketers Can Leverage Bard

There are various ways multi-location marketers can use Bard. Because Bard often provides human-like responses, you can use it to help support content development. For instance, if you’re stuck on ideas for a local social post, you can ask Bard for some ideas. 

In the example below, we asked Bard to draft social post options for the first day of Summer in Florida.

Another use case for conversational AI tools is in your reputation management efforts. For instance, if your restaurant brand received a review complaining about long wait times, you can ask Bard for suggestions on how to respond. 

You may see the “view other drafts” on the right-hand side. That allows you to view other options that Bard has come up with. The pencil next to the request also allows you to edit your request if needed. 

It’s important to note that while these responses can be helpful, they still require a human touch. When responding to reviews, adding in your personalization is critical. We recommend doing your own online research and reviewing what Bard has written before using any of its answers or text.

Dominate Your Marketing Efforts With AI  

Bard and other conversational chatbots have shown us that AI is here to stay. Familiarizing yourself with tools like Bard is a great place to start if you’re looking to streamline your marketing strategy and leverage the latest technology. 

You can also leverage marketing solutions that have started to incorporate AI into their toolbelt. That’s where SOCi Genius comes in. 

Through the use of advanced artificial intelligence and machine learning, the SOCi Genius platform provides multi-location enterprises with actionable insights and recommendations while automating their most important workflows at scale.

If you need help managing your reviews, consider using SOCi Genius Reviews. 

SOCi Genius Reviews integrates our review response management tool with OpenAI’s GPT-4 to help you create customizable and intelligent reviews and automate your review management process. This review response helps businesses build better customer relationships and increase customer satisfaction. 

Learn more about the integration and how SOCi can help you manage your localized marketing efforts here.

The post A Look Into Google’s Bard + How It Works appeared first on SOCi.

• Three out of four consumers say they’ve discovered a new local offering based on recommendations and posts on social media.
• Similarly, 35 percent of consumers and nearly half of Gen Z and millennial consumers prefer to purchase from a brand on social media rather than the brand’s website.

While a local social presence is essential, what should your multi-location business do if one of your accounts gets deactivated? We have the answers in this blog. 

Why Facebook Accounts Get Deactivated

With more than 2.93 billion active monthly users, social media is one platform all multi-location businesses should leverage. With so many potential customers on Facebook, having a business account deactivated can cause issues. 

Often, a Facebook business account can get deactivated because you violated Facebook’s advertising policy. According to Facebook, accounts could also be disabled “because they don’t follow our Community Standards, Advertising Standards, Commerce Policies or other policies and terms. We suspect an account has been compromised or hacked.”

Unfortunately, other times, Facebook may deactivate your account for a reason you don’t understand or what seems like no reason at all. Regardless of why the account is deactivated, it is critical to get it back up and running promptly. 

What to Do When Your Facebook Account Gets Deactivated 

Now that you understand why Facebook accounts can get deactivated, let’s dive into what to do when this happens. 

Step 1: When you first notice that an account is deactivated, you should appeal the process — unless you understand the cause for the suspension. If that’s the case, you can fix the problem. 

This article from Facebook provides an in-depth explanation of how to appeal a deactivated account. 

Step 2: If you feel your business account may have been hacked, click this link to report it.  

Once you click “My Account Has Been Compromised,” you’ll be asked to enter your login information and ID for verification. 

Step 3: After entering these details, Facebook will search for your account and present you with accounts matching yours. 

If your account was hacked, the hacker might have reset the password. If that’s the case, you’ll be able to put in an old password, and once verified, Facebook will let you regain control of your account. 

Step 4: If your account is still deactivated, you can try reaching support through one of the following ways: 

• Find support through Meta’s Business Help Center.
   
• If you suspect the deactivation was due to one of your business’ advertisements, you can contact Facebook through advertise@fb.com. 
  • Note, this is Facebook’s official email account regarding general problems with Facebook Ads. 

Following the steps above should ensure that your business can get its Facebook account re-activated. 

Optimizing Your Local Social Strategy 

Now that you understand what to do when your Facebook account gets deactivated, it’s time to level up your local social strategy. 

Our Localized Social Content Guide can help. It provides best practices for creating effective local social content along with insight into which social platforms your business should leverage. 

SOCi Social can also help. SOCi’s social media management solution empowers enterprise and local teams to publish localized content, manage content libraries, respond instantly to social engagements, and analyze performance — all within one powerful platform. 

Learn more about SOCi Social today, and improve your local social efforts!

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