Mirror Mirror on the Wall... Let Google & Yahoo search them all....
What do people search for on Google? What do you search for on Yahoo? What are clients, friends, and family searching for? Seems our entire lives are spent in search of something? The questions is, are we ever really finding exactly what it is we're looking for? Google and Yahoo put alot of time, money, and resources into making sure that you do, at least on the Internet. In this post, I put the TOP TWO to the test with a question I get asked often by non-members. Where do I need to be on the Web?
TIP: There's "Google Juice" and there's "Yahoo Koolaid" out there as well, and people do search drink from both.
It's obvious why it's important to be found on the Internet for ANY Business. Real Estate is a common search term used in many search engines. Today, in searching both Yahoo and Google for some certain keywords that included "Real Estate", I found some interesting results that helped solidify my theory and remove the mystery of "Where You Need To Be if YOU'RE in the Real Estate Industry!"
This is fascinating and enlightening. Out of 107,000,000 page results for one search, and 968,000,000 page results for the other, these results made me realize how valuable and important being on ActiveRain really is. Not to toot our own horn here...OK, maybe just a little, but if you're in the Real Estate Industry, there's some obvious advantages why you should be on ActiveRain. Those who have already joined AR know first hand the power of Social Networking and the results that can come from Real Estate Internet Marketing and Blogging.
Take a look at these results for the following "search terms" in both Google and Yahoo.
(I'm using this post for an Office Presentation introducing ActiveRain to some new members)
"Top Real Estate Blogs"
Google = Page 1, #8 - Results 1 - 10 of 951,000,000 for Top Real Estate Blogs
YAHOO = Page 1, #7 - Results 1 - 10 of about 107,000,000 for top real estate blogs
"Best Real Estate Blogs"
Google = Page 1, #5 - Results 1 - 10 of 564,000,000 for Best Real Estate Blogs
YAHOO = Page 1, #9 - Results 1 - 10 of about 968,000,000 for Best real estate blogs
This one made me most proud to be a Member and a part of ActiveRain
"Top Real Estate Social Networks"
Google = Page 1, #1 - Results 1 - 10 of 73,300,000 for Top Real Estate Social Networks
YAHOO = Page 1, #1 - Results 1 - 10 of about 23,600,000 for Top Real Estate Social Networks
So Are the Search Engines Correct? Are they accurate? Depending on what you're looking for, they sure can help. Remember that Millions of People are using them everyday. My main point here is that if you're not a member of ActiveRain and you're in the Real Estate Industry, NOW might be a really good time to consider becoming a member of the #1 Top Real Estate Social Network in the world. If you're already a member, this is a great time to tell a friend or colleague who isn't. Sharing these results may open their eyes.
ActiveRain is #1. Don't take my word for it, ask Google and Yahoo. I trust their opinion 100% on this one.
That is something to be proud of. I love it here in the rain! My business has taken off and this is the rough season or year. It has also been very educational, and uplifting when I need it most-Dinah Lee
Brad great post! I know I love AR and these search engine results just make me happier that I found it.
Hi Brad - I would like to endorse ActiveRain as well. I have been a member now for less than 3 months and I have 1st page google placement for about 20 different targeted key words. This stuff works - and people will find you!
:)
AR's has some serious power! I've seen it!
Frankly, I think they're wrong given the fact that you're not #1.
That reminded me to check on how our company was doing for "Best Colorado Real Estate Company". Unfortunately, we appear to have slipped from our #1 spot. I better point some more AR links at it! ;-)
Brad,
Your archives goes back to early 2007, so I am really late to the party. Glad I found it. Thanks for you and the other pioneers.
Brad - Hooray and congratulations! We know how great Active Rain is. This just confirms that the search engines realize it too!
I am not surprised. That is why we are all here.
Brad: This is Awesone ! Active Rain is doing great things.
Hi Brad... it's search results, such as these, that create a perception of importance and credibility... and as they say, "Perception is Reality"! Great post!
Brad, I'm a huge believer in the power of ActiveRain and it's always had me in a great spot on Google fluctuating between page 1 & 2 and starting to see some results for Yahoo as well. Still lots of work to do but isn't there always? All I know is that joining AR in August this past year was one of the best things I've ever done for my business and I tell everyone every chance I get. Hope all is well with you - will you be at the Philly ReBar? ~Anne Marie
Brad! This is SO TRUE! This site is increasingly a bigger and bigger resource for SO MUCH MORE than simply real estate. I brag on our ActiveRain constantly!! - Pam
Hmm. Very interesting searches. I need to think about the ramifications.
Thanks Brad: I check periodically for the search terms I create SEO around (which I learned on activerain) and I am on page #1 of googe for almost every term with about 5 sites I have created and manage. I never check yahoo but I would think I have similar placement hmmm. . . I am going right now to retweet this - Thanks Activerain - proud to be a member - even happier with the google juice.
Brad --- thanks ---- AR has been very good to me. Thanks for sharing the great news.
Isn't it just GREAT!
Brad...
And this is just part of the reason we all stick around :)
TLW...ROAR!
Wow....glad that I got in when I got in. And I agree with TLW.....that's part of the reason we all stick around.....membership has its privileges.
Of course we are #1 - we rock!
Brad,
Those are awesome results! I am glad to be part of the best real estate social network. Thank you for the search info.
Well, shucks. Did you really believe that I integrated ActiveRain into my Internet strategy just because of Brad, Jeremy and Jon's good looks???
Brad, that's pretty impressive. I'm glad I decided to become a member fairly early in the game...
I have been told by blog trainers outside of the AR network that within 5 years or less, Active Rain will be the top real estate portal and that includes realtor.com. The cool thing is that this is organic. Realtor.com, Trulia, Zillow and the like have to spend big money to get their ratings.
ActiveRain does well for us. Prospects call from Localisms every day. Members should be sure to use the feed to post your blog links on Twitter and Facebook.
Brad: Thank you. That's encouraging. I think most of us love being here but we also have to feel like we're not wasting our time. Thanks again for the post!
No question that Active Rain works. It is a powerful networking and business building tool - I'm surprised more industries aren't following the business model.
Thanks Brad, I would probably still be with Active Rain even if it were not the best (which it is).
Brad - it makes me wonder how many folks miss out on Google Juice and Yahoo KoolAid for not joining and contributing to this great site.
Well, very very interesting! Thanks for sharing this!
Great stuff and I feel kind of proud that I wised up and jumped into the Rain. One of the best decisions I ever made.
Brad, how can I get a link to send folks to sign up for AR and Rainmaker under me. Is there a way to put a link on my websites?
Brad I can see where this would have some value for my business. BUT....nothing like this.
Hey Brad, Fascinating stuff ! Congrats are in order to the whole gang !
I am singing in the rain just singing in the rain.
cool...that is some great news.
I looked at mine and I have not quite made it to the 1st page but I am working on it. I made page #2 that is better then page #300 or so
I love AR!
@Bryant, that's too cute!
Great news...off to check my rankings!
This is perfect as I was trying to figure out how to explain why folks should become members of AR and join our team blog. Pefect. So glad I'm finally part of the fun!
Thanks for the update Brad. I'm so happy to be a part of this great network!
Brad - thanks for the information and this is very good news. I appreciate everything here in the Rain!
LOL @ Blog Boy :)
Thank you for the post. I am new to Active Rain - am learning great information everyday.
This is awesome! I hear so many times...why active rain and you make a great point Brad!
Brad...and that is why I am here...love AR and all the experience I have received since joining.
I am also interested in Missy Caulk's question....... how can I get a link to send folks to sign up for AR and Rainmaker under me. Is there a way to put a link on my websites?
Brad - That's astonishing, but not at all surprising. Thanks for another excellent post.
Missy had a great question above. Here's how you add an "invite button" or Link to your Blog post, profile or website:
You can use any text or image. just create a link back to your own "referral link" on ActiveRain.
IE: http://activerain.com/action/referrals/activebrad now just replace my AR user name with YOURS. Done!
You can even use this image I created below if you like, I promise I won't send Lenn Harley after you! lol~ Luv ya Lenn :-)
To save image above, right click your mouse on it and select "Save Image As"
Then create the link to it: http://activerain.com/action/referrals/YourUserName
OK Brad. .please give us something new. . . I already knew that Active Rain is got gallons and gallons of Google Juice. .. I can't imagine being a Realtor and not having a blog in Active Rain. . . I wouldn't have any business!
Hey Broker Bryant - You stud you!! Remember this one? I think it's the one that put you over the "TOP!" :-))
Hi Brad - Looks like all of your search term links are pointing to pages other than the actual search results. Can you double check those?
Fernando - this is really for the folks who have never heard of AR or just joined. For them, this is new. :-))
John - Don't click on the links in the search results, (that one slipped by me..thanks) see what copy and paste can do to you? LOL~
Try searching Google or Yahoo on your own. I'm sure your search will return some different results even if you use the same search terms.
But Try it, Test it for me, and see what you find?
Awesome, Brad! The proof is in the results!
That is really awesome. I would have more to say but that says it all!
Hi Brad -- Hard to argue with Google or Yahoo search results. I remember when I got on the 1st page of Google back in 2004 for some good keywords and it provided 50% of my business that very same year. Proofs in the puddin -- as the saying goes -- or perhaps to be renamed today: Proofs in the Google search results page.
Hi Brad,
I'm with Wayne, maybe late to the party, but better late than never.
Thanks,
Kathy B
Pretty mindboggling or should I say mindblogging!!! Awesome post Brad!!
You're preaching to the choir with this post Brad - but it's nice to see the affirmation!
Hi Brad~ I make it a practice to only hang out with the best! That is why I am in Activerain!!
Thats great! I am glad to be apart of it! You presentation should sell them pretty quick. Thanks for sharing.
No... STAY AWAY. Seriously... That's what I do. ;^ )
Brad,
My head hurts from trying to learn what needs to be done! Of course, I have been extremely busy lately--but--I will have to say Active Rain has gotten my attention more than anything I have tried lately. I am sure you will be hearing from me with questions, etc. I just signed up for the outside blog and have a lot of questions. Another tech-minus REALTOR. Think I'll take a break and blog.
AR seems like a very smart place to plant your flag in the blogosphere.
HOORAHH Active rain, we are the best!
The vibes must be out there....I saw your blog, read it and decided to respond....and then realized that my partner from Transit Alliance 2009 Citizen's Academy just added a comment as well.....something about great minds think alike! Good stuff to share with others. Thank you so much.
Brad - That is terrific news and that is why I encourage other Realtors to embace this network.
Well, I am not surprised. This is great news. It certainly shows that you are doing something right. KUDOS!
Hi: Brad, I have been inviting everyone I meet who in real estate to join Active Rain from the chamber of commerce to real estate clubs.
Isn't this one of the reasons we're all here? :-) YAY!
Nice promotional post. I am planning on inviting many colleagues to Active Rain and will use aspects your post in my invitation letter. Thank you.
Brad, This is fabulous positive reinforcement to excite more members to join this amazing community.
Brad,
Those nice search results in Google and Yahoo should make everyone a believer on ActiveRain's viability. Can't get much better than that.
Now Brad, tell us something we didn't know!!!! ;o)
Brad, gotta love AR! Thanks to all the folks at AR and to the members that make this such a great network! Yahoo!
Bra - well I'm not surprised by the results, but they certainly convey the power that can come from being here. Pretty compelling to someone who is not already here and perhaps knows little about social media and blogging in general. I often find folks who have at least heard of AR but are not participating and have not joined.
Jeff
AR is phenomenal for the ability it has to generate Google juice or Yahoo koolaid. Either way, I really appreciate it.
Active Rain is great and very worthwhile for many reasons. I think for many of us it becomes additive!!
Sue
A great reminder that it is all about Location Location Location, and we all chose ActiveRain as at least one of our Locations.
great post - always good to see why I blog and send AR money every month - HA HA
Just another reason I'm really looking forward to the Webinar later today!
Irene
Yes..this is what all us Active Rain nuts know.....there is much google juice to be had.... here...lovin it!!
Wow...this is great! I'm glad I got in when I did back 2+ years ago. It's been informative and very worthwhile. Congrats on the new addition and enjoy while you can, one day a baby.....next thing you know they are in high school!
Best regards,
Patricia Aulson/ Portsmouth NH Real Estate
Amazing!!!! I love AR!
The problem with AR is that I'm not too sure people outside of the industry have any interest. Well, it's not a problem for me because all the people I want to work with would be here.
Paul - I think there is more interest in AR and the content here than you may think or realize. Over 2,000,000 visitors each month, over 143,000 members, more than 12,000 posts per week, over 1,000,000 posts available now and we're growing. If there isn't an interest now, there certainly will be as these stats get out there.
If you were a Real Estate reporter, where would you go to find out what's happening all across the country? If you were a consumer searching google or yahoo, would you have the choice of what links show up? I think there is a huge interest in this network by others outside this industry which is exactly why members are and need to be here. Just my 2 cents... :-) BTW - We're glad you're here!!
Yeah, AR is proabably the best social resource out there for the REALTOR. Keep it up!
Have to agree with Paul. 143k members is the biggest handicap for AR. There are nearly 100 people on Twitter who have more followers on their individual accounts than AR has in the entire network.
Brad: I just got off the phone with a potential seller client, who found my profile on Active Rain. I have already set an appointment to go to look at their house. They were impressed with my profile, especially the testimonials! You can be sure that this girl will be spiffing up the home page.
Brad, that is awesome to hear! Every day I become more and more of a fan of Active Rain as I continue to get lbuyers and listings. Thank you!
That's great news, Brad! Y'all over there at AR HQ keep up the good work. 140,000+ of us are counting on this!
Brad:
Yes, this is grat news. I just picked up a gentlemen from Washington state looking to help his sister here in Maryland, via ACTIVE RAIN.
It works if you work it. It works if you keep coming back.
Hi Brad,
Thanks for posting this. It is indeed why we are all here. I remember my first Localism post in 2006 came up absolutely first when I googled myself.
Cheers to Active Rain!
Hey Brad! I often tell people (some who aren't even in real estate), just how thankful and happy I am that I joined ActiveRain before the rest of the real estate world finds out about the power of the network. Nothing better than getting in on a GOOD thing at the groundfloor level. :)
Brad - Kudos to Active Rain! I am so glad that I am an active member, as I have learned a lot and met some wonderful people.
Brad, this is not surprising. It's simply the best source for real estate information on the web.