Google "makes search more secure"

Late last year Google announce via their blog that they would be "making search more secure".  As stated in the blog "As search becomes an increasingly customized experience, we recognize the growing importance of protecting the personalized search results we deliver. As a result, we’re enhancing our default search experience for signed-in users."

What does this mean in non-google-speak?  It means that "(not provided)" is going to start showing up in your Google Analytics as a top referring keyword.  Not provided means any and all keywords used by web surfers who found your site through a Google search while logged into their account.  According to Google, there are about 350 million active Google accounts right now, and that number is still growing each day, which means (not provided) is probably going to be one of your top referring keywords from here on out.  This produces a special challenge for business owners and SEO managers everywhere.  The keyword analysis tool has been great in helping determine what keywords are bringing the most people to your site, or what keywords are not brining people to your site, allowing us to tailor your SEO strategy.  If you regularly check Google Analytics to monitor the popular keywords that drive activity to your site, don't worry, there are other tools out there.  With Google Webmaster Tools you can find the top 1000 search queries that have delivered people to your site inthe last 30 days.  

At Page 1 Solutions we utilize many different tools and methods of data reporting to provide the best and most effective SEO strategy for your website, not just Google Analytics.  If you have questions about Google Analytics, Google Webmaster tools, or anything else regarding your personal SEO strategy, please contact your Page 1 Solutions Internet Marketing Consultant.  

Dashiell Harrison