Forums are booming, some even reporting 100+% YoY growth! But let’s take a hard pause and break down why this growth is happening and what elements are driving it.
My Take:
While these growth numbers are impressive, it’s crucial to peel back the layers and ask:
1) How much did new Google SERPs contribute?
Are users finding more value in forums due to algorithm changes and better search visibility?
2) How much did the pandemic fuel this growth?
During times of isolation, forums may have thrived due to users seeking deeper, niche conversations. But is this a lasting trend or just a temporary spike?
3) Does Reddit help Google’s AI systems? (Assumption)
Reddit’s vast amount of user-generated content helps Google better understand how people talk, aiding in improving its AI and natural language understanding?
Key Timeline of Events:
1) June 2023 - Google was upset after Reddit’s blackout caused search frustration.
2) October 2023 - Reddit threatened to block Google’s access to its content.
3) November 15, 2023 - Google rolled out the "Hidden Gems" algorithm update, boosting visibility for forum-based content like Reddit.
February 22, 2024 - Google and Reddit signed an AI content deal, further strengthening their partnership.
🔗 Learn more here:
Some thoughts on why Reddit is all over your search results: https://lnkd.in/eAdAbedA
Reddit shown excessively in Google product review search results, study finds
https://lnkd.in/ehG8yFr5
Google & Reddit’s Love Affair: A Timeline of the Search Partnership
https://lnkd.in/eAdAbedA
💡 Your thoughts?
#SEO
#ForumGrowth
#GoogleSearch
#PandemicTrends
#SERPs
#Reddit
#ContentStrategy
