The forum carousel and the Google forum discussions next to it have caused concern among SEO professionals and copywriters, pointing out that most of the content there is scams and unreliable information. Danny Sullivan, the liaison of Google Search, handled a typical example of such an issue, claiming that the feedback has been channeled for more scrutiny.
Sullivan also addressed the mammoth concern about the content in the forum and admitted that though a few users dislike it, several users like and seek it out. In our post, we will discuss further implications of the latest carousel, along with their possible scopes and complexities.
Raising Concerns Related to Forum Content in Search Results
People have started doubting Google’s ability to provide relevant data with the help of the forums and discussions carousel. Acknowledged SEO expert Lily Ray recently brought up the matter on Twitter, where she made a point that it can only be positive and never negative when it comes to Google rank. She also said on Reddit that affiliate scammers and spammers have now taken over.
Google’s Response
Sullivan countered the possibility by explaining the carousel feature, which automatically loads each time the system thinks it is in the best interest of the client and makes sense to do so. However, some of the users made additional purchases based on this reason.
This led to many controversies on Twitter, and it was realized that the search should continue as soon as the user started actively searching for it. The user should only need to type ‘Reddit’ on the last search, unlike the one who does not wish to reply while sorting and finding which is the most popular at the moment!
Sullivan remembered that the goal here is to present user-related content, whether a blog, forum, or website. They provide an example of the aimed and targeted look and feel, where this forum turns into an issue that can be solved with smart window blinds, as an example of the potentially valuable content of the forum.
Possible Enhancements on the Way?
Ray told Sullivan about this worry, and Sullivan said that it is usually a known issue that is communicated to the search team. He also described the potential improvements regarding the frequency of the forum’s publication in relation to the unique questions and the addition of future notes that would explain who are participants and who are often not doctors.
Inclusion of Forums and Discussion Carousel in SERPs
Making the right inclusion of the forums and discussions carousel across the search results specifically for the queries on YMYL has further implications for both the publishers and the users as follows:
- User Trust: This occurs when forum content contains scams or misinformation that is distinguishable in the search results and adversely affects the user’s trust in Google, which is to provide the most credible information.
- Discouraged Publishers: Owners of better SEO Forums and SEO experts and professionals who devoted their time and better resources to creating highly authoritative and top-quality content from time to time feel disappointed and down-hearted when the forum content always outranks their total operation.
- Public Health and Well-Being: Untruths in the forum’s content can affect society, depending on the search results for specific and accurate medical intonation details.
How This Can Help You
Irrespective of the growing concerns including the content of the forums in the SERPs comes with numerous scopes like:
- Identify Content Gaps: Analyzing the questions and discussions in forum results can help you identify gaps in your content and create targeted, authoritative resources to address user needs.
- Engage with the Community: Participating in relevant forums and offering benefits along with accurate details can effectively help establish a brand as a reliable authority in your niche, possibly growing its visibility and traffic.
- Adapt your Content Strategy: Try considering including user-generated content like expert case studies or interviews offering firsthand experiences and outlooks, which users find beneficial throughout the forum discussions.
Final Thoughts
The discussions and the forum of Google in the form of a carousel in the search results have notably pointed out some major concerns among SEO experts. Google had focused on this feedback while considering its possible room for growth and enhancements. It comes with its challenges and better scopes for the SEO experts to identify the gaps in the content while engaging with the community that adapts to the strategies of the content servicing to the needs of the users.
Sandeep Goel is the founder and CEO of Obelisk Infotech, with over a decade of experience in digital marketing. He started his career as an SEO Analyst, refining his skills with US clients, which deepened his understanding of digital culture. Sandeep is passionate about writing and regularly shares insights through blog posts. He plays a key role in company growth by implementing processes and technologies to streamline operations.
Founder (Obelisk Infotech)
