Mike Forgie, Local Marketing Specialist

Next Step Connect

Next Step Connect has a sole purpose: connect you to your audience. 
We use paid and organic Ad Strategies to deliver you qualified prospects for easier sales.

Owner

Mike Forgie

Hey! If you need a marketing strategy for better search engine results or social media exposure, it is time we talk.

Need help getting your business exposure online? I can help you with SEO, Google/Facebook/Instagram ads, and more!

My main clients include:
Agencies that need SEO and social media strategies developed and performed.
Experiential markets such as yacht rentals, supercar/exotic auto drives, helicopter tours, and more. For many of these markets, I can provide photo and video services.
Any company that needs local clients such a wedding equipment (tent, chair, table, etc) rental, contractors, construction equipment rental, medical practices, and more.

Marketing Strategist

M studio Design & Marketing

M studio is an amazing branding, marketing, design and communications agency. Their assets such a Public Relatiosn assists perfectly in the target marketing needed for effective off-page SEO. As for on-page SEO, I work with designers and developers to create websites that will perform on both search engines and as lead generating vehicles

SEO Specialist

PCG Digital Marketing

I started as a Content Writer and quickly moved my way up the ranks at PCG resulting in a Digital Marketing Specialist position. 
One of my main duties at PCG was to create a user journey throughout our new website in order to capture leads. Each page on the site was optimized for specific keywords, whether general or long-tail.

Digital Marketing Specialist

Evolution

I managed the Public Relations/Marketing team of four to reach target markets, developed promotional campaigns to increase search engine optimization and social media awareness, and organized the creation of copyright materials such as press releases, blog posts, and print/online advertisements.

Public Relations/Marketing Manager

Artist Arena

My duties as a freelance apprentice were to administer fan club websites for top pop bands (e.g. Paramore, Fall Out Boy, Green Day), organize and disperse promotional material, and promote the fan clubs.

Freelance

EMI Music Publishing

For college credit I interned for EMI Group, mainly Virgin and Capitol Records, in New York. Here I learned how to read Nielson Soundscan reports, develop and analyze press packets for musicians like Katy Perry, and analyze albums to match with products and/or organizations.

Intern

Excess dB Entertainment

As a member of the street team I handed out promotion materials, performed stagehand work, was the liaison for guests and artists, catered to artists, and attended events at least once a week.

Street Team

I help Local Businesses with SEO/SEM | Get your Free Site and Competitor Report below | Over $1,000,000 Generated From Local, Cash-In-Hand Customers

What most sounds like you and your local business:

 1. Looking for effective marketing strategies (to get more clients and beat the competition)
 2. Need someone to run all your marketing so you can do what you enjoy

Or both of the above? I've been a freelancer for over a decade, helping businesses grow to over seven figures. I've learned quite a bit in that time.   

Business owners hate marketing because: 
 X it costs money
 X takes time to learn
 X changes often
 X competition is fierce
 X they have hired bad services in the past

Cut through all that struggle. Either implement what I teach or hire me to take care of it all for you!

Using the latest tools, I refine my decade of experience in:
 - SEO
 - Content Creation
 - Social Media Outreach
 - Search Engine Advertising
 - Website Management

All to empower you to run your business leaner and scale quicker.

DM me for more info. I LOVE to chat via Google Meet or Zoom, provide guides, and sincerely help local businesses dominate their markets.

Why TF do I have leopard print hair?

I believe if we have something to give, then we should give it.

During a low time in my life, I did not have much to give, but I did have very long locks.

Not to brag, but I was always complimented on my hair. 

Luckily, my fiance isn't jealous because hair stylist always asked to touch it...especially at the bar 😬 

So, I decided to raise money (over $2,000) and chop my mop. 

Both were donated to a child who was going through a much worse time than I was.

This was one of the best things that I've ever done. 

My hair gave a child a sense of normalcy during a rough and formative time in their life. 

Friends and family rallied to raise the money to cover the cost of the wig, which showed me I am not alone. 

Unfortunately, my hair is now less than ideal to donate.

Gray hair is tough to work with and does not go through the wigmaker process as easily, if at all.

So, I still grow it out because I enjoy it, but when it garners attraction, I turn its attention to my story of donation.



Moral of this story: if you have something, please give what you can. And, don't take for granted what you have.

If you don't have anything physical, share your knowledge. 

This weekend, please think of something you can do for someone else.

📸 not current. I know you are all concerned haha

Q2 Alert 🚨 : It's Nike Time...

Remember your big biz plans for 2024?

You wanted growth. But,
- projects piled up
- taxes distracted you
- maybe analysis paralysis hit on marketing strategies
- marketers annoyed you with cold DMs

Now, it's three months later.
Your growth plan? Untouched.

The swoosh says...JUST F*CKING DO IT!
Or, find someone who will.

Simple.
You need action. 
Now.

For successful growth strategies, you need to:
1. launch
2. get data
3. adjust
4. launch again
5. repeat

You are already behind, but there is still time to GET IT DONE.

Make 2024 count.
What are you going to do NOW to grow this year?
Share below, and I will help you fast track it the best I can!

The most important advice for the second quarter

The secret to faster success? Your MVP! - (and, no, it isn't most valuable player)

Picture this: 
I have a trio-role acquaintance - a friend, a client, and a business cohort, too.
Marvelously detail-oriented, this person meticulously outlines every single feature of their end product, a year in advance.

Impressive? Absolutely. 
But here's the catch - an entire year speeds by before the journey even begins! This means we lose money every day we don't make money.
How do I fix these scenarios?

Allow me to unveil the magic of the MVP - the Minimum Viable Product.

What's the MVP? 
It's the simplest form of your brainchild that you can introduce to the world... INSTANTLY!

Imagine launching with a basic outline, say, a form, then unraveling the rest as you move forward. 

What if you rolled out the initial half of your product, like a course, and then pooled resources to shape up the remaining half?

Overthinking can often strangle us into inaction, leading to a paralysis of analysis. The enormity of tasks can feel like a GIANT looming over us.

So, if your plans for the year have still not taken off by the end of the first quarter, it's time to rethink. 

It's time to think MVP. Release it now, not later.

Collect data and feedback as you go along. 
Improve your product based on this real-time information rather than preconceived notions about what's "best". 

The world awaits your MVP. 
Are you ready to deliver?

Let me know in the comments if you have a project that can be an MVP!

#marketing #digitalmarketing

Outsmart local competition with a secret AI weapon - in under a minute! ⏱ 

There's a secret weapon your competition likely isn't utilizing - a fully optimized Google business profile. 

Why not step ahead by filling in the gaps they've left untouched?

Here's the strategy: 
Use a powerful AI tool by Merchynt to upload search engine optimized products to your business profile. 

The best part? It takes less than a minute. All you need is a single image ready to go, and you can easily pull one from your own website. 

By leveraging this strategy, you'll not only outshine your competition but also attract more local clients effortlessly.

Grab the opportunity, make the most of your Google Business profile. Watch the video below and download the tool. 

Let's not just match our competition - let's one-up them. 

Want more tips? I am working on a SEO training. To get on the list for FREE, use the word "product" in your comment.

#marketing #digitalmarketing #seo #searchengineoptimization #google

Want money and clients right now?

These are the most straightforward types of keywords to run ads for:

(your service) near me
EX: botox near me, oil change near me, roof repair near me

(your niche) near me 
EX: med spa near me, mechanic near me, roofer near me

(your service) (location)
EX: botox miami, oil change middletown, roof repair san diego

(your niche) (location)
EX: med spa miami, mechanic middletown, roofer san diego


Yes, there are more steps.
But, if you want money and clients...
DO NOT overthink the whole process!

Want to run the SIMPLEST ads campaign ever using those keywords?
DM me

Hey marketers?
What other quick, easy ways do you know to get money and clients? 
Help some biz owners out!

What are some effective keywords for ads?

How important is a call to action in ads?

Unlock the secret of defining your ideal client in less than 60 seconds flat! ⏱  Discover how with this week's Tuesday Tool 👇

Remember the buzz from yesterday's post? 
It got us all thinking about that "next step."
But today, I needed a perk-up, so figured you did too!

What better way than to learn about my ideal client?

Don't you want to know:
❓ who your ideal client really is
❓ how to speak to them
❓ where to find them

I ramble for a few minutes, but finding your ideal client profile takes under a minute.
Just click here: https://lnkd.in/euxCncve

Let me and everyone else know what you do for motivation when you are feeling wiped out?
How do you define your next steps? 

#marketing #digitalmarketing #marketingconsulting

Why do I surf in the shark 🦈 bite capital of the world? What does it teach us about marketing among alphas?

I’m drawn to the waves of New Smyrna, Florida, known as the shark bite capital. 

While daunting, it’s a risk I understand and manage—much like navigating competitive marketing waters.

From chilly New Jersey to Florida's warmth, my surfing mirrors my business philosophy: 

🧠 Face challenges head-on with a good head.

Surfing where sharks roam? 
It's about strategy, not fear. 

In marketing, I apply the same approach among 'alpha sharks' like Neil Patel, Julian Goldie, Matt Diggity, Brian Dean and even those we see here like Anna York (who I love seeing in my feed)

I avoid feasting with top names, choosing my targets wisely. 

This strategy lets me carve out my niche, achieving top rankings and significant business growth for my clients.

In both surfing and marketing, success isn't about recklessness. 

It’s about informed decisions and understanding risks. 

I dive in when the timing's right, leveraging my environment to minimize risks and maximize rewards.

Are you ready to navigate your market with strategic precision? Reach out. 

Let's discuss how you can achieve top results with less risk and more reward.


📸 me feasting at New Smyrna after a solid surf sesh!

What are some best practices for developing a marketing strategy?

🎉 Friday check-in: Photo week wrap-up! 📸 
 
This week, we kicked off a simple challenge: snap a daily photo for your Google Business Profile.  
 
🚀 Whether it was a quick pic of your morning coffee at your desk or a bustling shot of your team at work, every image helps bring your business to life! 
 
So, how did you do? 
 
👉 Drop a link in the comments if you joined in—I'm eager to see your creativity in action! 
 
👉 If you missed out, no worries—here’s why you should reconsider: 
 
Effortless Marketing:  
 
You're carrying a powerful marketing tool right in your pocket. Yes, your smartphone! 
 
Engage & Attract:  
 
Each photo can significantly boost how approachable and authentic your business appears to potential customers. 
 
Autopilot Mode:  
 
With the guide I shared, it’s like having a marketing assistant in your hand. 
 
Not a shutterbug? No problem!  
 
Running a business takes enough time without adding photographer to your resume.  
 
If you'd rather focus on what you do best and leave the snapshots to someone who can make them shine! Hire a local photographer. 
 
📷 Let's have some fun: share a photo of you at work today in the comments. 
 
It can be your office, team, desk, lazy assistant (sorry but Honey dog just sleeps on the job), whatever.  
 
Below is me hard at work in Miami a few years ago. I enjoy a motivational environment.

What are some tips for making my business appear more authentic?

How can Google Business Profile help my business?

What should I look for when hiring a local photographer?

No alternative text description for this image

Revamp Your Brand: Can a Strategic Name Change Lead to SEO Domination?

🚀 Quick Insight: 
Yes, strategic keywords in your business name can boost your SEO dramatically.

🤔 But should you do it? 

Here’s what it entails:

🔑 Embedding keywords in your business name can propel your Google Business Profile up the search rankings.

📝 The catch? 

You’d need to officially register the new name, update all directory listings, and undergo re-verification with Google and other platforms.

💡 Smarter move: 

 - Opt for a 'Doing Business As' (DBA) that includes your keyword. 
 - Register a matching URL just to solidify the legitimacy 
 - and use this DBA in your marketing.

🔗 Stay authentic while strategically positioning your brand for visibility.

🎯 Want to dominate your market without the hassle? Let's talk strategy!

Slide into the DMs

#localbusiness #smallbusiness #localseo #searchengineoptimization

How can I improve my Google Business Profile ranking?

How can I increase my brand's visibility?

📸 Monday Boost: Look better than your top competitors in 5 minutes 
 
Are your competitors’ Google profiles looking better than yours? Check now.  
 
Search your top keywords:  
"med spa near me" 
"mechanic in miami" 
"san diego roofer" 
 
Look at the top result and the photos.  
 
If they have more and better photos, your prospects will choose them. 
 
You have the power to attract more customers right from your smartphone.  
 
For 5 minutes a day, let’s focus on enhancing your Google Business Profile with vibrant photos.  
 
Here's how simple it can be: 
 
Monday: Capture Your Team 
People connect with people. Snap some candid shots of your team in action. Show off the faces behind your service! 
 
Tuesday: Showcase Your Space 
Take photos both inside and outside your location. Let customers see where they’ll be and the environment they’ll enjoy. 
 
Wednesday: Highlight Your Services 
Photograph your main services or products. Whether it’s a dish from your menu, a specialty product, or a peek at your service process, make it look inviting. 
 
Thursday: Before & After 
If applicable, show the magic of your work with before and after shots. This not only demonstrates your capability but also builds credibility. 
 
Friday: Fun Extras 
Capture any unique aspects of your business that make you stand out. Maybe it’s your quirky decor, a busy lunch hour, or a special behind-the-scenes. 
 
🚀 By Friday, your Google Business Profile will be bursting with fresh visuals that capture the essence of your business, making it more enticing than ever to prospective customers.  
 
Remember, each photo is a chance to tell your story and showcase what makes your local business special. 
 
🔗 Don’t underestimate the power of visuals; they’re your silent salespeople working 24/7.  
 
Grab your phone and start snapping today! 
 
 
🚨 I'm giving FREE access to my Local SEO training NOW while it is in beta.  
 
Want access? Share a photo of you doing work, your office, whatever! 
 
#localbusiness #googlebusinessprofile #businessgrowth #localseo #searchengineoptimization

What are the top headlines from San Diego roofer?

Monday Motivation: You are failing to get the easiest customers if you don't do these 2 things
(I made this because Mondays are too busy for BS meetings)

Put yourself in your prospect's shoes:
- Imagine you need something NOW
A licensed electrician, landscaper, emergency dentist, vet, accountant
- Go find one

What did you do? 
Did you ask chatgpt? 

No, you went and searched for them using:
 "____near me" or "___ in CITY" 
Or, even better, you searched maps

Your prospect is doing just that for your business!
They have a problem, and they're urgently seeking solutions.

And you... you HAVE that solution...don't you?

Here’s the key - They're primed and ready for the sale. 
Eager to buy now. 

How will you get them?

Do these 2 things:
1. SEM - launch Google ads for your exact business and services in an area like:
med spa miami, botox in miami, miami laser hair removal, miami med spa
2. SEO - this isn't an "it was better to start yesterday" plan. It is  "better to have started last year." Start NOW, the lasting effects will make you the easiest $$$

Being the top search result or the top ad isn't about ego. 
It's about being RIGHT THERE when your prospect needs you.

I’m not dissing other marketing methods. 
As someone who provides a variety of marketing services, I know each method has its place. 
But I believe in the power of SEO and SEM - they're often the most straightforward paths to ready-to-buy customers.

So, cancel that BS marketing meeting where you brainstorm about how to use ChatGPT to launch social ads on autopilot. 

Which do you use: SEM, SEO, or Both?

If not, what are you waiting for?
If the answer is help, I am here.

Why is there silly putty and makeup on my nose? 👃 

There are morals and a silver lining to this story...I promise

This photo is from my brother's wedding
I was the best man 🤘

The day before, I fell while surfing
As I spun underwater...
I found the rail of my board with my face 🤕 

My nose lost the battle, and the board ended up:
 - crunching the cartilage
 - snapping the tip off the bone
 - cutting holes on each side of my nostrils

I went to the hospital
Requested glue instead of stitches
Then called my brother first because my parents were going to be FURIOUS 

He and his friends thought it was hilarious 🤣 
His soon-to-be wife said it was all good as long as I got makeup 💄 
And, yes, my parents were PISSED...at me?! 😡 

Why me? 
I didn't plan this!
I've surfed for YEARS and even several days leading up to the wedding
The chances of this happening were slim

It didn't matter to them...
I was "irresponsible"

So, I made sure to make this the best situation possible:
1. I paid a makeup artist to cover my raccoon eye bruises and get the blue glue as close to skin tone as possible
2. Offered to pay for a professional designer to fix any photos they wanted
3. Rallied the groomsmen to make a joke out of it to lighten the mood
4. Convinced my family I took all the bad luck to my face, so the wedding would be great...which is why the weather and wedding were so amazing
5. Delivered a heartfelt speech 

Looking back, I would surf again

You can't plan for anything like that
You can't stop taking chances and play it safe

In life:
Some people will understand 
Some people won't
You can't control others
Or how they will react
You just have to be honest

If you do something wrong, even if it wasn't on purpose, 
go above and beyond it make it right 

Take these thoughts into the weekend:
Take chances
Be honest
Turn negatives into positives

Silver lining: 
This isn't the first time I broke my nose, 
But this time it broke back straight! 🤙 😜

How can we turn negatives into positives?

How can humor help in difficult situations?

Is your local business leading or lagging in today's AI-driven search landscape? 
 
In the era of Google’s Search Generative Experience, the businesses that thrive are not just those found online... 
 
They're the ones fully understood by Google's AI and prove to be the AUTHORITY.  
 
Are you confident that your business falls into that category? 
 
❓Why Every Local Business Must Embrace FAQs❓ 
 
Command Authority:  
 
Your FAQs don't just answer questions - they assert your expertise and authority in your field.  
 
Without them, you might just be letting competitors dictate the narrative. 
 
Boost Visibility:  
 
Seamlessly integrate FAQs on your Google Business Profile and your website.  
 
This strategic move guides Google’s AI to prioritize your content in search responses, enhancing your digital footprint. 
 
Engage Effectively:  
 
By proactively addressing common queries through FAQs, you ensure that every customer interaction starts on the right foot.  
 
It’s not just about being found—it’s about being recognized as the best answer. 
 
🏆 Quick Wins for Immediate Impact 🏆 
 
Enhance Your Google Business Profile: 
 
Populate it with relevant FAQs that reflect real customer concerns. 
 
Optimize Service Pages:  
 
Embed FAQs to enrich content relevance and user engagement. 
(make sure to use FAQ markup) 
 
Stay Agile:  
 
Continuously update your FAQs to reflect evolving customer needs and questions, keeping you ahead of the curve. 
 
If you're not leveraging FAQs to shape how Google's AI understands your business —you're risking invisibility in a crowded market.  
 
I LOVE frequently asked questions. To see how I implement them, visit:  
https://lnkd.in/ejahti3F

How can FAQs help local businesses assert their authority and expertise?

What is Google's Search Generative Experience?

How can I optimize my Google Business Profile with FAQs?

Taplio

Mike Forgie, Local Marketing Specialist's Linkedin Analytics