Ann Smarty

2 weeks ago | practicalecommerce.com | Ann Smarty

Keyword rank tracking was once an essential search engine optimization tactic. But consumers are increasingly searching on generative AI platforms, which do not disclose prompt data, such as words and phrases. And genAI responses are highly dynamic and personalized. A site may come up as an answer to an initial prompt or, alternatively, in a follow-up. How can brands evaluate visibility in AI-driven answers against competitors and adjust strategy accordingly? There are no good answers.

3 weeks ago | open.substack.com | Ann Smarty

Generative Engine Optimization (GEO) is a new-ish term that seems to pick it up in popularity, whether we want that or not. The first time I talked about it was in 2023 when I was sharing a study on how to get cited in AI-driven answers. Since then a lot has changed, and with our industry’s love for new shiny terms, it looks like we need to address the topic again. >>> Join us to discuss this LIVE and ask your question!GEO is optimizing for generative AI.

3 weeks ago | practicalecommerce.com | Ann Smarty

Backlinks remain essential for organic search visibility, yet link-building opportunities are increasingly rare. Most tactics are either risky or ineffective. Those that work well — digital public relations, direct outreach — are often too expensive or time-consuming for small and medium-sized businesses. But one link-building method is both inexpensive and effective: being quoted in online publications as an expert. This method produces backlinks and builds topical authority.

3 weeks ago | medium.com | Ann Smarty

“The home page” for millions of people, Reddit has always been a huge challenge for marketers and business owners. With Google surfacing it for just about any brand-driven query, Reddit has become a necessary evil for any reputation management task. >>> Join us as we are discussing it LIVE hereWe all know that most people are now likely to search Google for a company’s reviews before buying anything.

4 weeks ago | open.substack.com | Ann Smarty

Last week, we talked about the challenges of Reddit reputation management, something most businesses have to deal with at this point. There were a lot of “be extra careful” notes there, which I stand for, but thanks to those, many marketers may be asking a very valid question. Provided Reddit is so challenging for marketing, should it actually be part of a marketing strategy? The short answer is: YES.