Google brand update hits the UK

The related search volume idea is an interesting one. If Google used traffic data, do you think the results might be skewed as it kind of depends on who has Google Analytics installed, and the kinds of people that have the Google toolbar installed? Still, I suppose it’s more than possible. Brands also probably have a much higher click-through rate, so they might look into that (although I think they did anyway).

I noticed this over the weekend with a few brands popping up on Saturday for a few broad keywords. However this morning things seem to have settled again on the same keywords. Google do seem to “test” websites and see if they are relevant to a keyword.

I can see why Google want to show trusted brands more because most users would expect to see top brands appearing, however if they have certain “big” brands in their mind prior to searching, surely they’d search for them first?! If this change is indeed a big one then the so-called level playing field has been tipped away from those websites with smaller budgets.

This is a significant develop for brands if it is ‘true’ (not that I have any reason to doubt you Patrick!). What it reflects is the truth that mainstream consumers look to trusted mainstream media channels for their content. It means that true digital PR will become increasingly important in the digital space.

The ability to provide compelling content which adds value to consumer and brand owner is critical, not only for brand reputation, but for Google ranking too.

Above the line spend bears no relevance to this either. It’s pure-play PR which is required, so SMEs can play in the same space as the large corporates without fear of being proced out of the market.

Perhaps the best indication of being a “brand” is a site that is newsworthy itself rather than a site that only gets linked to because it has written something interesting?

This could also mean the death of SEO as we know it and more and more SEO related consultation business going out of business. Branding the search results is unfair to small websites…content is no longer the king!!!

You can now write a killer article and Google will not take notice, since they looking for your reputation rather than the quality of your websites (in terms of content). I think it is a disastrous move for upcoming websites and businesses.

On the lighter side, we may see a reduction of sales pages promising overnight success with Google for newbies. ;)

if you have a great site and you are providing great deal of information or content to users, then i am sure you are not going to be impacted by any google updates or any changes in the way it search the information.

create good and user friendly site and do quality seo. Google algorithms will be always changing so it is not concern.

I feel you should treat an online business similar to an offline business. Grow all your elements together like structure, product range, staff, marketing efforts. Remember Google is a good place to get traffic from but is only one of the many different channels visitors can be found.