StumbleUpon: Traffic or Trash?
I’ve been paying close attention to StumbleUpon lately as it’s becoming a popular network. Many bloggers also claim it’s delivering an avalanche of traffic. After TechCrunch compared its impressive traffic delivery with the other networks, I decided I had to test it out!
My first reaction is definitely mixed.
Quick Setup, Quick Submissions
As a user of StumbleUpon, I loved the quick process for submitting my sites as well as my clients’. Unlike Digg, it requires only a few quick steps and you’re done!
Fun Toolbar
I admit I’m in love with the StumbleUpon Browser Toolbar. If I need a break or inspiration, the toolbar takes me to far corners of the web that I’d never find otherwise. Funky pages like Scroll Clock or these Funny “Motivational” Posters would just not be on my “go to” list otherwise.
I do also run across a few helpful sites and tools. However, the “fun” factor has definitely outweighed information. For me, Twitter delivers far more useful information and articles.
Traffic Galore
StumbleUpon certainly sent a massive amount of traffic after I submitted each site. In fact, after logging on to Google Analytics the morning after submission, my eyes nearly popped out of my head. I thought, “Wow! I’ve found the secret sauce for driving new traffic!”
Qualified Traffic = Big Fat Zero
After doing my little dance of joy, I quickly dove into the stats I review whenever I see a spike in traffic. First, I looked at Average Time on Site. Nine whole seconds. My heart sank. That was my first indication that the traffic coming in from StumbleUpon wasn’t quality traffic that would stick around. To confirm this, I looked at Bounce Rate. Yikes…90%.
One might argue that this may be less a reflection on StumbleUpon and more on the quality of a site’s content. I’d agree except for the glaring fact that other traffic sources have stats that indicate otherwise.
Still Stumbling
I haven’t completely given up on StumbleUpon and will continue to read up on driving quality traffic from the network. So far, I’ve followed most of the “rules” others have published on how to drive qualified traffic. Because StumbleUpon is so easy to use, I’ll certainly continue to test and promise to share what I learn!
Business Bloggers: Has StumbleUpon Worked for You?
I share this story to remind others to pay close attention to the quality of your traffic in addition to quantity. However, I’d love to hear what your experience has been with StumbleUpon. What kind of traffic does it drive to your business blog?
Deana Goldasich
Deana Goldasich, CEO and founder of Well Planned Web, plans and implements Content Marketing to help clients nurture leads, market their expertise and create an impactful presence online.
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Same result I've received on two separate blogs. Huge spikes, low quality.
Interestingly enough, all discussions on Twitter, LinkedIn and Facebook have drawn the same conclusion. Glad it's not just me!
I ran a campaign on $150. Got two conversions, but very little free traffic – bit.ly/cIv60u
So are you referring to a paid campaign, versus content promotion? Interesting…as I haven't explored the paid side of SU, at all!
Yes, sorry, I was referring to a paid campaign. I'm not saying I wouldn't try it again (got a couple of sales and some branding to boot), but might need to rethink my strategy a bit.
Interesting info! Two converstion for $150 = not too shabby!
Not profitable, but not shabby. Potentially the additional branding will pay off. I may try another campaign in a month or so.
Definitely keep me posted on the results, if you can. Seems that there may be more value in paid ads for businesses, versus content. Would love to highlight you as a case study! Thanks again for chiming in!
I ran a campaign on $150. Got two conversions, but very little free traffic – bit.ly/cIv60u
So are you referring to a paid campaign, versus content promotion? Interesting…as I haven't explored the paid side of SU, at all!
Yes, sorry, I was referring to a paid campaign. I'm not saying I wouldn't try it again (got a couple of sales and some branding to boot), but might need to rethink my strategy a bit.
Interesting info! Two converstion for $150 = not too shabby!
Not profitable, but not shabby. Potentially the additional branding will pay off. I may try another campaign in a month or so.
Definitely keep me posted on the results, if you can. Seems that there may be more value in paid ads for businesses, versus content. Would love to highlight you as a case study! Thanks again for chiming in!
is pop site
I feel Its not worth using StumbleUpon as a high bounce rate could negatively impact SEO