Ever Dance the Google Dance?

For those who know Google well like us, the Google Dance is not a dance at all. It's when Google changes their ranking algorithm significantly to try to get better search results on a Google search. Google calls it 'improving the users experience'. This comes along only 1-3 times a year and is referred to as the Google Dance and is not advertised in advance.

As a result, it's common to see a dramatic loss of search engine traffic if it is not adjusted for. For companies like www.Answers.com, this meant a loss of over 28% of their 3 million visitors a month. That's 840,000 visitors or about 30,000 per day, so you can see how this can be a really big deal for some companies. Assuming that each search visitor is worth at least 50 cents per, that can add up to a lot of money if it lasts a month or more.

As we like to say around here, Google keyword rankings are not a god-given right, and are not static. So once we get you there, that doesn't it will stay unless we continually monitor and make adjustment when necessary. SEO (search engine optimization) is not a one-time event but an ongoing process, across all the search engines, not just Google.

The algorithm changes actually happen throughout the year, but the term Google Dance is reserved for the bigger changes. The small changes will move your listing a page or two whereas GD can put you on the 10th page or worse. Keep in mind, it can also move your listing up as well. I sometimes think this is Google's way of leveling the playing field every now and again. Not necessarily a bad thing...

BTW, there really is a Google 'dance'. I've been to it, and the Googlers really dance at the Googleplex. Free food and drink (of course) abound, but with entertainment like arcade games, volleyball, live music etc. Takes place in August usually...

Labels: Google dance, Google rankings, search engine traffic, SEO

posted by Fred @ 2:05 PM