Podcast Summary: "Do This, NOT That: Marketing Tips with Jay Schwedelson"
Episode: Ep. 247 - 🥳Happy New Year!🪩What's Up THIS WEEK:🆕Big Search Changes, 20% Increase in Email Opens🦑SQUID GAMES🦑
Release Date: December 31, 2024

Introduction to SearchGPT and Its Impact on Marketing

In the latest episode of "Do This, NOT That," host Jay Schwedelson delves into the transformative world of AI-driven search tools, specifically focusing on ChatGPT's newly released search tool, SearchGPT. Jay emphasizes the potential shift in search engine dominance from Google to AI-powered platforms.

"Google should get a little bit nervous about how many people are going to be using their search tools in 2025." [02:15]

Jay shares his personal experience using SearchGPT during a family trip, highlighting its superior conversational capabilities compared to traditional Google searches. He notes how SearchGPT seamlessly integrates complex queries, such as personalized recommendations and real-time traffic updates, which are challenging to achieve with standard search engines.

"I used it in a way that I would use Google search normally, but I used it even beyond that. It would give you everything you need in one second." [04:30]

Optimizing for SearchGPT: New SEO Strategies

As AI tools like SearchGPT gain traction, Jay discusses the evolving landscape of search engine optimization (SEO). He outlines three critical strategies marketers must adopt to maintain visibility:

1. Alignment with Bing Algorithms
   Since SearchGPT is powered by OpenAI and closely aligned with Microsoft's Bing, Jay advises optimizing content to perform well on both Google and Bing platforms.

   "If you're not having your optimization aligned with things going on with Bing in addition to Google, you're not going to show up highly in the rankings on Search GPT." [10:50]

2. Recency and Content Updates
   Emphasizing the importance of fresh content, Jay recommends updating titles with the current year and month to enhance search relevance.

   "Labeling your content 2025, and even including the month, gives it an extra boost." [15:20]

3. Optimizing Title Tags
   Title tags remain paramount, as SearchGPT prioritizes them in search results. Jay underscores the necessity of precise and descriptive title tags for higher rankings.

   "94% of the search GPT results are looking at title tags first." [20:05]

Email Marketing: Boosting Open Rates by 20%

Transitioning to email marketing, Jay reveals insights from SubjectLine.com about effective subject line keywords for January. He highlights different strategies for B2B and consumer audiences:

• For Business to Business (B2B):

  • Keywords: "outlook," "trends," "forecast," "2025"
    These terms resonate well as they focus on upcoming developments and strategic planning.

  "The word '2025' in your subject line is a game-changer for open rates in January." [25:40]

• For Consumers:

  • Keywords: "best seller," "most popular," "budget"
    Jay explains that consumers are keen on understanding popular products and managing their post-holiday budgets.

  "'Budget' performs exceptionally well because nobody has extra money after the holidays." [30:10]

Marketing News and Trends

Jay shifts to current marketing news, sharing his thoughts on recent brand collaborations and entertainment trends:

1. Dove and Crumbl's Unconventional Collaboration
   Jay critiques the partnership between Dove and Crumbl, where Dove launched limited edition soaps with cookie-inspired scents. He expresses skepticism about the practicality and appeal of such products.

   "Who the hell wants to smell like confetti cake or lemon glaze? It’s probably going to go viral, but I'm not sure why we need our soap to smell like cookies." [35:55]

2. Entertainment Highlights: Squid Game Season 2 and Wicked Release
   Discussing pop culture, Jay talks about the highly anticipated Squid Game Season 2 and its intense content. He also mentions the release of "Wicked" across streaming platforms, expressing personal excitement despite not having seen it in theaters.

   "Squid Game is back, and it's as violent as ever. On the bright side, 'Wicked' is now available on all streaming platforms." [40:25]

New Year Resolutions and Personal Anecdotes

Addressing the topic of New Year resolutions, Jay references Statista's findings on popular resolutions for 2025—eating healthier, losing weight, and exercising. He shares a humorous and personal take on these common goals, highlighting his recent experience with a stomach virus that inadvertently aligned with his weight loss aspirations.

"I just had a stomach virus and lost a bunch of pounds. Though not fun, I’m well on my way to losing the weight!" [45:00]

Jay concludes with a tongue-in-cheek suggestion for resolutions: gaining weight during the holidays to make subsequent weight loss easier.

"At the end of the year, gain as much weight as possible so you can lose more easily when the new year hits." [48:10]

Conclusion and Call to Action

In his closing remarks, Jay motivates listeners to embrace the upcoming year with confidence and optimism. He encourages feedback through reviews and highlights upcoming virtual marketing events featuring industry leaders.

"Start out the new year right and do me a solid. Leave this thing a review. Appreciate you all and talk to you later." [50:30]

Jay also promotes GURU Media Hub’s virtual events, inviting listeners to connect with top marketers like Daymond John and Martha Stewart.

"Visit guruevents.com to hear from the world's top marketers. Check it out!" [52:15]

Key Takeaways:

• Adopt AI-driven search optimization: Embrace SearchGPT and align SEO strategies with both Google and Bing algorithms.
• Update content regularly: Ensure titles reflect current trends and dates to maintain search relevance.
• Enhance email marketing: Utilize strategic keywords in subject lines to boost open rates, tailored for different audiences.
• Stay informed on marketing trends: Monitor unconventional brand collaborations and popular entertainment to inspire innovative marketing ideas.
• Engage with the community: Provide feedback and participate in virtual events to stay connected with industry leaders.

This episode of "Do This, NOT That" offers a blend of practical marketing strategies, insightful commentary on current trends, and engaging personal anecdotes, making it a valuable listen for marketers aiming to stay ahead in a rapidly evolving landscape.