Google+ impact on local is over.

The 2015 Local Search Ranking Factors   Report is out, and it’s a must-read for anyone in the local SEO arena. As you may know, the survey polls roughly 40 leading local SEO practitioners on what they believe to be the variables most responsible for driving rankings in Google local search results.

David Mihm began the survey independently a number of years ago and now manages it in his role as director of local search strategy with Moz. The survey is very extensive, and I can’t summarize all of it here.

The “snack pack” was top-of-mind for all the participants, but tactical responses varied widely. Below is the high-level summary of the ranking variables and the consensus view of their relative influence.

Source: Moz 

The top consideration, according to the group, was “On-Page Signals,” followed by a relatively even distribution of other factors: Link Signals, My Business Signals, External Signals, Behavioral (i.e., clicks, calls, opens) and so on. The big takeaway seems to be an emphasis on quality and the incorporation of an expanding range of signals.

Several local SEOs were arguing to stay the course, get the basics right. Indeed, the most valuable part of the study is probably the individual practitioners’ color commentary on the findings. Below are just a few excerpts:

Darren Shaw, Whitespark

With the new local packs having only three spots, the local organic results have become much more important. We’re putting more effort into content, links and unstructured citations for our clients these days. Media mentions appear to be particularly powerful. Even a single mention in a local paper seems to provide a significant boost to both local pack and local organic rankings.

Quite if the day.

Honesty is the best policy. If I lose mine honor, I lose myself.

William Shakespeare

Dramatist, Poet

The Ultimate Guide on Asking for Advice From Experts

One of the first things I recommend to anyone who wants to be successful is to find a mentor. Seeking out the opinion and advice of someone who is currently doing what you want to be doing will help you in a myriad of ways. You’ll avoid heartache and the costly mistakes made out of naivety.

But how do you get that conversation started? Social media has made it easier than ever to reach out to the experts who inspire us.

I believe experts want to help. I certainly do. Sure, I’m busy, but let’s keep it real.

1. Before you ask an expert a question, try to answer it yourself.

I’ve been writing about product licensing online for years now. When I receive an inquiry about a topic I’ve covered at length in a previous article, I’m happy to quickly respond with a link to the corresponding article. But I always wonder, “Does this person know how to use Google?”

It makes more sense to study a subject until you feel like you know it well and then approach an expert for his or her advice. You’ll have a firmer grip on the perspective you seek. To be honest, most experts aren’t going to be willing to answer question after question, so make it a good one!

2. Briefly explain who you are.

Context is always helpful. Who are you? Why are you sending this message? Experts like to know. A long-winded explanation isn’t needed. I’m talking about something as simple as “aspiring product developer” or “engineering student.” Doing so will humanize you.

3. Never forget that flattery will get you far.

What expert doesn’t love hearing what they do is appreciated? Try to be as specific as you can. When someone references my book or an article I’ve written, I know that they’re already at least a little bit familiar with my work. I love that.

4. Ask questions that are clearly defined, but not necessarily specific to your exact circumstance.

Experts can’t weigh in on the exact scenario in which you find yourself, because doing so wouldn’t be sincere. They simply don’t know enough. I know I don’t want to give anyone bad advice. Focus instead on asking more general questions.

5. Be even keeled.

I cannot stress this enough! Knowledge is what you’re after, isn’t it? Focus on starting a dialogue rather than confirming an opinion. When people reveal what they already think about a subject in their initial inquiry, I’m wary of getting a conversation started. The reality is that it isn’t going to be much of a conversation.

Experts just want to share what they think, not convince anyone of anything. I wonder why the person messaged me in the first place if his or her opinion is already formed.

6. Proofread what you write.

I think a lot of what getting someone to help you comes down to is being genuine and thoughtful. Taking the time to craft a well-written, error-free message is one way of doing that. It tells the expert that you care. They’ll care more as a result.

7. Double and triple-check how to spell his or her name.

Addressing me as “Steven” is far from a deal-breaker, but if I’m being honest, it makes me feel like you haven’t put very much effort into your message. After all, it’s such a simple thing to do. I might be especially sensitive to this, because my name is easily misspelled!

By Stephen Key.

About me

Im just a #Geek who has been doing Digital Marketing for 12 years or so, giving free #seo and #socialmedia advice to #Business & #StartUps. @digital4trade #BNI