Yep, I said those words, "waste of time" when referring to a Google metric. Bold? Maybe. Requiring further explanation? Yes.
At first, I thought of using the word "absurd" but thought that may be an absurd exaggeration. So, I changed it to "waste of time" because I think that is a more accurate description.
There are so many articles and forums discussing this subject, I just had to write about it. So, let me explain further.
Disclaimer: This is my opinion and I have a right to have one.
What Exactly is Google PageRank?
First, a quick explanation about what PageRank is. PageRank (PR) is ultimately how important your website is on search engines. The higher the PR (0 through 10), the more relevant Google considers the website. Very, very, very few websites have a PR of 10. The big deciding factor about increasing Google PageRank is backlinks. Basically, the idea is that websites with a higher PR that have links to your site will help increase your PR.
It is NOT the Holy Grail of Website Success
Now, I am not saying that PR is not important or valuable, but it is only ONE metric and honestly, it is not completely understood. Google PageRank is a good indication of site success. Sure, I would agree. Is it the one and only all-encompassing indication of website success? Absolutely not! So, why are people spending so much time chasing down this "Holy Grail?"
One of the Google PageRank discussions I came upon was actually asking how people are "preparing" to increase their page rank. Really? Is that possible to have a plan in place to do this? Should that be the focus of a blog or website? While it is good to have a plan for your website, there are better places to put time and energy than chasing Google Page Rank.
Is Google PageRank Irrelevant?
I would not answer that question with a resounding "yes." But, I think when you consider how valuable your time is, it may be irrelevant. Another perspective on why Google PageRank is irrelevant may help you understand that it is not as important as some people may think.
If You Build It, Traffic Will Come
I do not want to completely dismiss Google PR or tell you it is not an indication of a successful website. Data exists that does correlate Google Page Rank to site success. Remember, I used the words, "waste of time" here when referring to "chasing" PR. All I am saying is spend the time building a good website, attracting readers, maintain that quality website and traffic will come. Then, there is a pretty good chance that the PR will increase along with the traffic.
If you do not take my word for it, maybe you should read what Google itself says about Page Rank.
