Within the US, among 44 ranking factors examined, social signals account for 7 of the 8 most highly correlated with Google search results, according to a new study from Searchmetrics. Presenting the correlations using Spearman’s rank correlation coefficient, the study determined that Google +1s (0.4) have easily the highest correlation, followed by number of backlinks, Facebook shares, and Facebook total (summary of shares, likes and comments), each at 0.34. Last year’s study, which looked at 21 factors, found social signals occupying 5 of the top 6 spots.
That social signals correlate with Google rankings is not news to search marketers. According to a recent survey from BrightEdge, 80% of search marketers believe social sharing of content will be either a much more (31%) or more (49%) important means to improve rank this year than last. Read the rest at MarketingCharts.
The e-Strategy Academy covers all aspects of digital marketing including search optimization & marketing, email marketing, social media marketing, video marketing, mobile marketing & public relations.