Head of Digital at Friday Agency | Lecturer | Author | Keynote Speaker | Dip. Cyberpsychology
It looks like the recent leak of Google Search API documentation that Rand Fishkin shared has stirred the SEO community. But for those of us who have been paying close attention, the revelations confirm what we've long suspected or already knew. NavBoost and Click Data: Already unveiled last year, the use of click data and user behaviour metrics like NavBoost to refine search results isn't surprising. We've known for years that Google utilises clickstream data from Chrome to improve its search algorithms, despite public denials. Whitelists in Sensitive Situations: The existence of whitelists during critical events like the COVID-19 pandemic and elections aligns with what we've already observed. Google has been known to prioritise authoritative sources during such times to ensure accurate information dissemination. Quality Raters' Influence: The role of human quality raters in shaping search rankings has always been a key part of Google’s strategy. It’s no secret that quality evaluations from real people are essential in training and refining the search algorithms. Click-Based Link Evaluation: The idea that Google uses click data to assess the quality of links fits perfectly with our understanding of modern SEO practices. The importance of genuine user engagement over mere link quantity has been evident for a while. Brand Importance: The leak confirms the critical role of brand recognition in search rankings. Building a strong, recognisable brand has always been the best strategy for achieving long-term SEO success, particularly when it comes to links. While the leak provides detailed documentation and insider confirmation, it's essentially a formal acknowledgement of what I've been discussing and adapting to for years. For those who have kept a finger on the pulse of SEO trends and Google’s evolving strategies, this leak is more validation than revelation. But for now, it's clear: Friday Agency has been on the right track all along. #SEO #Google #GoogleLeak #SearchEngineOptimisation
