My Take

I wonder how many of people's predictions that they pontificate out at the end of every year in posts and articles online actually come true or are at all accurate?

As humans we like to know what's next and what's coming at us, but when you get down to it the whole idea is pretty silly and just a way to create clicks to your site. Now is there anything wrong with it? Not really. But does it provide any value?

With Google continuing to refine and roll out the Helpful Content Update (aka. HCU), I wonder the effect will be on sites that have these prediction posts. Will it help, do nothing, or hurt the site's rankings in the SERPs?

One of the biggest industries, not surprisingly, to do prediction posts is the marketing industry and within that industry the SEO experts.

Titles might include:

• Our predictions for the Google algorithm in 2023
• Our content marketing trend predictions for 2023
• Where will AI be in 2023

What it boils down to is our inherent nature to bet on the unexpected with the hope to come out on top and most of all RIGHT. Sports betting is the best analog to this. We're guessing on the outcome of a game that we have no sway in. Pure luck and chance, if you ask me. It's the same with these posts. Only, as far as I know, there's no money changing hands. (There probably is LOL).

What is your thoughts on these prediction posts and these pontifications? Hit reply and let me know!

Web Finds

• Google helpful content system update rolling out now (December 2022 update)
  Wave 2 of the HCU is rolling out now. Don't be surprised if you see your sites that were ranking high taking a bit of a dip. Don't worry they'll probably recover, unless you're doing something that your not supposed to do. This update is going out Global as well.
• Content ideas may be coming to Google Search Console
  Google helping with content ideas in the GSC? Intriguing thought.
• 2023 Edition: Google Says Only Update The Date When Significantly Updating The Content
  So essentially feel free to edit the existing post and instead of making a new post with a new slug, just update the date on the old slug. Interesting.
• Why ChatGPT will profoundly transform every marketing career, starting now
  Mark says that all marketers need to investigate ChatGPT, I agree. But do I think that marketing the way we know it is done for? Not exactly. I think we'll have to adapt to the changing landscape and tools, as we always have.
• Why Google Missed ChatGPT
  Another interesting take from Alex Kantrowitz from his newsletter Big Technology. Worth a read.
• Agorapulse is embracing TikTok
  The social media management app for businesses has released its integration with TikTok, which allows brands and businesses in general to build their TikToks outside of the TikTok platform and control the posting and interaction within Agorapulse where their other social properties live. A pretty big move.
• 32 Predictions for Social Media Marketing in 2023
  I couldn't resist putting in a prediction post about Social Media in 2023. How much of these 32 predictions will actually happen?
• New Report Looks at the Importance Versus Annoyance of Two-Factor Authentication [Infographic]
  A very interesting infographic, and if you're not using Two-Factor Authentication everywhere, you need to start... RIGHT NOW!
• Twitter Plans to Re-Launch its Controversial $8 Verification Program as Early as This Week
  I get that the verification blue check is a way for Elon to make some money with Twitter, but the whole idea of having that checkmark is worthless now. I think he should focus on adding more features to the Twitter Blue subscription other than this stupid emoji. But what do I know?
• Our new love affair with the office is a step towards a better philosophy of work
  I do see even within my household the growing want to be around other people. My wife recently got a job as a chiropractic assistant while she looks for her next full-time gig. She admitted to me that she's really enjoying being around other people. I can totally understand that. I even miss being around others, I recently gave up my spot at a co-working spot to spend more time in my home office. But that's more because of the nature of my work, I'm on Zoom calls with people all over the world, and these calls are not conducive to an open room full of other people working. But I have to admit I do miss working at my office space.
• Twitter ‘to lose 32m users in two years after Elon Musk takeover
  Am I one bit surprised? Nope.

Newsletter of Note

A colleague of mine, Ame Proietti, has a great newsletter about copy writing and script copywriting. Script Tips helps you write engaging and persuasive video scripts so you can make impactful video content. 

Latest From Entrepreneur's Enigma

ChatGPT's 2023 Predictions

I thought this would be fun to share. Check out ChatGPT Right Away!

As we start to turn the page on 2022 and look ahead to the new year, many people are curious about what the future holds. Some are looking for predictions about the stock market, others want to know what to expect in terms of global politics, and still others are looking for insights into the latest trends in technology. Here are some potential predictions for 2023:

1. The rise of electric vehicles: With more and more automakers announcing plans to phase out gasoline-powered cars in favor of electric options, 2023 could be a big year for EVs. Expect to see more charging stations popping up in cities and along highways, as well as a wider variety of electric vehicles on the market.
2. Continued growth in the tech sector: The tech industry has been on a roll for the past few years, and there's no reason to believe that will change in 2023. Look for advancements in areas like artificial intelligence, 5G networks, and the Internet of Things.
3. Increased focus on sustainability: As the effects of climate change become more apparent, expect to see more and more companies and governments prioritizing sustainability. Look for new initiatives to reduce waste and promote renewable energy sources.
4. The rise of remote work: The pandemic has accelerated the trend toward remote work, and many companies are realizing the benefits of having a distributed workforce. Expect to see more flexible work arrangements and an increase in the use of virtual collaboration tools.
5. Political uncertainty: With a number of key elections taking place in 2023, including the mid-term elections in the United States, expect to see a lot of political uncertainty. This could lead to volatility in the stock market and potential disruptions in the global economy.

Overall, 2023 is shaping up to be a year of change and transition. From the continued growth of the tech sector to the increasing focus on sustainability, there will be plenty of developments to keep an eye on. So buckle up and get ready for another exciting year!

Until next week, stay curious!