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Google Releases 2007 ‘Most Searched For’ Lists

by Susan Gunelius on December 15th, 2007

Each year, Google (NASDAQ: GOOG) releases a list of the most searched for terms throughout that year called the Google Zeitgeist (spirit of the times).  Not only do the lists provide a nostalgic look back at 2007 from the iPhone to Hannah Montana and everything in between, but they also provide a great tool for marketers to learn which brands successfully generated an online buzz in the prior year then take lessons from the marketing tactics employed by the companies (or people) behind those brands to help develop our own strategies for the following year. The lists are broken down into a variety of categories including political searches, music lyrics, fitness, recipes, ringtones and more.  I think the most interesting list shows the top ten news searches in 2007.

Google’s Top 10 News Searches in 2007 Across the Globe

1. American Idol
2. YouTube
3. Britney Spears
4. 2007 Cricket World Cup
5. Chris Benoit
6. iPhone
7. Anna Nicole Smith
8. Paris Hilton
9. Iran
10. Vanessa Hudgens

I think it’s interesting that 60% of the top ten searches were celebrity and entertainment related.  With 20% of the results in the top ten news searches being sports related, that leaves just 10% related to a product (iPhone) and 10% related to current events/politics/geography/government (Iran).

It’s also interesting to take a look at the various trends in search terms throughout the course of 2007.  For example, Nintendo’s Wii shortage certainly drove an online buzz for the product late in the year as people frantically searched to find one in time for Christmas.  If the shortage was manufactured as many people believe, it worked in that it got people talking about the product and brand and created a perceived need with a strong sense of urgency attached to it.

What do you think about the search trends of internet users in 2007?  I think the trends provide an interesting glimpse into society as well as an insight into potential viral marketing and social media marketing strategies for the future.

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POSTED IN: Brand Popularity, Online Branding