Unicorns, the Tooth Fairy, and the Front Page of Google

Published on July 22, 2015

While telling a child that there is no such thing as the front page of Google might not send them into a tizzy of tears, it might get some strange looks from the grown-ups in the room. 

After all, digital marketing articles everywhere proclaim that they have the answer to this equation, that by "using these 10 tips" or by "studying this program" or by "selling your firstborn to Rumpelstiltskin," your website will make it to the front page of Google. 

We understand why this spot is so coveted. Google owns 65%-70% of the search engine market share, and 75% of users never go past that first page of search results. It can be a matter of life or death for your business.  

But, we're here to drop a truth bomb:

There is no such thing as the front page of Google. 

Next time you open a new tab, you'll see what we mean.

Log onto Google. 

Okay, now type in this phrase: "how to put on my dog's leash."

Google will reward you with about 2 million results in .24 seconds. Take note of which ones are at the top of the page. 

Now, try searching for this: "how to put on my dog's harness."

Google should then give you about 100,000 results in .30 seconds. 

Give it a shot with a few other phrases, only changing one word in each search. You'll see what a difference that can make in terms of search results. In the case of "leash" vs. "harness," you'd have a much better chance of reaching the top of the search results within "harness'" smaller pool, but you would also lose the popularity of "leash."

What exactly does this mean for your SEO?

It means you have to know how your desired audience conducts searches. Since Google's first result page is so fluid and sensitive, getting that top spot can really be just a matter of "pop" or "soda." You've got to understand how your desired audience speaks and how they understand the product or service you're selling.

A great way to begin to this research is to open up your social media platforms to customer discussions. Ask questions, get feedback, and look into your company's reviews. And, then, get into producing some quality content by blogging regularly. Be specific. Give locations, provide names, and be economical in your descriptions. 

Because Google doesn't have a front page and, instead, has a first page of search results that best suits the given inquiry, it is critical that you aim to understand your readers' speech patterns, language choices, and perceptions. As always, Geek | Chicago welcomes your questions and discussions about the latest in tech and SEO!