Howdy,

What’s goin’ on in digital marketing? Well, let me tell you.…

• ⌛Quiz: What’s considered a “necessary evil” at Google? An ex-Google exec said that it’s sending Google users to other web publishers, and from the decisions being made at Google, it seems pretty obvious. Google wants users to stay on their pages because that means more moola in Google’s wallet. Yet, it lets down the publishers than put Google in power. Elizabeth Reed, Google’s Head of Search, confirmed that the Google Search Bar will be losing its prominence as voice and visual search grow in popularity. With Google trying to up its tech game, make sure your optimization strategies are primed for voice searches. More from Search Engine Journal and Search Engine Land.

• ✅ The Google Core Update rollout is complete. It seems this didn’t affect as many sites as previous updates, but some sites that were affected were hit hard. Barry Schwartz from SEL recommends looking at the keyword ranking volatility within the update timeframe (3/13/25-3/26/25) and doing an analysis to see how you can improve your content in a meaningful way. Deleting content is a last resort. Reminder, if you make positive changes, it could take months to start seeing those reflected in Google results.

• What is the missed opportunity for not enacting Search AI Optimization (SAIO) strategies now? 37.5 million search-like prompts a day are conducted on ChatGPT alone. Want more proof that SAIO is worth it? Hear from our own VP of SEO & SAIO, Marc Engelsman: SEO & SAIO Should Come Together (Right Now): The GenAI Search Opportunity.

• This may seem like a “no-duh” statement: 90% of consumers use social media to keep up with trends and cultural moments. Did you know that they use it overwhelmingly more than relying on friends and family, TV/streaming, digital media, podcasts, and print media? Stay vigilant knowing the algorithms serve things they know you will interact with.

• 41% of brands are using AI for video. That’s up 18% from last year. This is amazing for brands needing to make video content to compete while on a budget. Yet, if you are using AI for video, check the little details. (If Santa is missing fingernails, maybe it’s not ready for primetime just yet.)

• FINALLY, Insta is putting in a re-post feature!

Thoughts to Take With You… 💞

❤️ People simply want to be seen and heard.

❤️ Small interactions make lasting impressions.

❤️ Genuine connection creates company cultures where both hearts and minds can thrive.

These are some of the spectacular insights gained from interviewing Jennifer Eisenreich, professional speaker and founder of Shift Show Communication, on the A Better Paradigm Podcast. Listen in to learn how you can inspire your teams to move beyond compliance to commitment.

Has anyone told you that you’re awesome recently? Well, here it is: you’re awesome! 😎

Happy Wednesday,

Natalie

We know Canva is normally packed in the busy marketer’s toolbox. If you want to make your designs *sparkle*, check out the Design with Canva channel on YouTube. Channel hosts Ronny and Diana break down interesting design features for every skill type.