Tried and True
A recent release of July search engine stats by Nielsen revealed a slight down turn in the number of searches (-1%) done over the past year. Why would the number of searches go down with the ever increasing use of the internet? While searching for an answer I came across several possible reasons and a few of the most compelling theories are outlined below.
Some think the economy played a role, assuming that with higher unemployment web users aren't purchasing as much and due to this they don't have as much of a need to search. This is an interesting possibility, however most people that I know spend more time on the internet not less when home from work.
Still others believe that web users have become savvier and have learned to make more specific searches, which in turn reduce the need for additional less specific queries. Those who believe in this theory may be on to something, specific search phrases have reduced the number of times that I search.
Social Media was named as one possible reason for the down turn in search numbers. With people going to a specific brands social media pages they can often jump directly to a company website, Blog or online store which would have a direct impact on search numbers.
Mobile devices may play a role here; many people do not like accessing search engines from mobile devices. They find it cumbersome and may stick with URL's they know.
Lets give some credit to the search engines, they may be returning better search results which could reduce the number of searches a person needs. Combine this with more specific search phrases and it may be no surprise that the number of searches has diminished.
No matter what the reason, it is important to remember that some of the easiest and most effective ways of promoting your website is through local advertising,
product branding and self promotion. This type of promotion is tried and true.
