Privacy Policy

Who We Are

Next Step Connect is a search and AI optimization agency based in Asbury Park, NJ. Our website is nextstepconnect.com. When we say "we," "us," or "our" in this policy, we mean Next Step Connect LLC.

Information We Collect

Information you provide directly:

• Name, email address, phone number, and business name when you submit a form or request an audit
• Any additional information you share during consultations or communications

Information collected automatically:

• IP address, browser type, device type, and operating system
• Pages visited, time spent on pages, and referring URLs
• Cookies and similar tracking technologies (see Cookie Policy below)

Information from third-party services:

• Google Analytics (GA4) for website usage data
• BrightLocal for visibility report lead capture
• Local Marketing Manager for review widgets

How We Use Your Information

• To respond to your inquiries and provide the services you request
• To generate and deliver visibility reports and audits
• To send relevant communications about our services (you can opt out at any time)
• To improve our website and services
• To comply with legal obligations

We do not sell, rent, or share your personal information with third parties for their marketing purposes.

Cookies and Tracking

We use the following cookies and tracking technologies:

• Essential cookies: Required for the website to function (session management, security)
• Analytics cookies: Google Analytics (GA4) to understand how visitors use our site. GA4 collects anonymized usage data. You can opt out using the cookie consent banner.
• Third-party embeds: BrightLocal lead capture widget and Local Marketing Manager review widget may set their own cookies. These are subject to their respective privacy policies.

You can manage cookie preferences through the cookie consent banner on your first visit, or by adjusting your browser settings.

Data Retention

We retain your personal information only as long as necessary to provide our services or as required by law. Form submissions and lead data are retained for up to 24 months unless you request earlier deletion.

Your Rights

Depending on your location, you may have the right to:

• Access the personal information we hold about you
• Request correction of inaccurate information
• Request deletion of your personal information
• Opt out of marketing communications
• Opt out of analytics tracking via the cookie consent banner

To exercise any of these rights, contact us at info@nextstepconnect.com or call (732) 784-8847.

California Residents (CCPA)

If you are a California resident, you have additional rights under the California Consumer Privacy Act (CCPA), including the right to know what personal information we collect and the right to request deletion. We do not sell personal information. To make a CCPA request, contact us using the information above.

Data Security

We implement reasonable technical and organizational measures to protect your personal information, including HTTPS encryption, secure hosting via Vercel, and access controls on internal systems. However, no method of transmission over the internet is 100% secure.

Children's Privacy

Our services are not directed to individuals under 18. We do not knowingly collect personal information from children.

Changes to This Policy

We may update this privacy policy from time to time. Changes will be posted on this page with an updated "Last updated" date. Continued use of the site after changes constitutes acceptance.

Contact

Next Step Connect
600 4th Ave, Asbury Park, NJ 07712
info@nextstepconnect.com
(732) 784-8847