Simsi - 7:57 pm on Dec 5, 2012 (gmt 0)

If you don't think social is playing a big part of the algo, your probably going to be surprised when the future catches up to you. Social has been playing a major part for a while now.

Based on observations in my sector, I respectfully disagree with this for 2 reasons:

Firstly, social isn't a useful signal in every industry. If you sell metal pipes for toilets then good luck getting social interest on that one ;)

Secondly, while I think social does play a part and will potentially continue to play a part, it is one of many signals and while it might be significant, probably won't be a major influence.

Finally, my theory on social is that it is only relevant if you choose to get involved. If you try social stuff and get an above-average response for your sector then I believe it helps. If you get involved and get a below-average response, I believe it may harm. If you don't get involved, I personally think the algorithm may simply leave you out of those specific calculations.