Amazon KDP is CHANGING - New Algorithm Explained

Summary

In this video, Sean discusses the recent changes in Amazon's algorithm and how past strategies for ranking books are now obsolete. He emphasizes the importance of consistent sales over a longer period, using relevant keywords, and obtaining genuine reviews to improve visibility. Sean also highlights the need to bring external traffic to Amazon and to focus on customer satisfaction to ensure higher rankings. He shares insights from his journey with Amazon KDP and offers advice for publishers to adapt to these changes and succeed.

Takeaways

• 🔍 The Amazon algorithm has evolved, rendering old strategies less effective.
• 🚀 Prior strategies like launching with a burst of sales over a short period are now outdated.
• 📉 Keyword stuffing, once a common practice, is now discouraged and can lead to account suspension.
• 🚫 Fake reviews, which used to boost rankings, are now actively removed by Amazon, and using them can result in penalties.
• 📈 Current successful strategies include maintaining consistent sales over a longer period, such as 30 days, to establish a strong ranking.
• 🔑 Focusing on fewer but more relevant keywords in metadata helps Amazon accurately understand and rank the book's content.
• ✅ Prioritizing genuine, verified reviews enhances credibility and signals to Amazon that the book is of high quality.
• 📊 Improving the rate of reviews per sale indicates customer satisfaction, which positively influences rankings.
• 🌐 Driving external traffic to Amazon through social media or email lists is beneficial as it introduces new customers to the platform.
• 🛡️ Amazon's algorithm updates aim to combat spam and manipulation, emphasizing the importance of quality and customer satisfaction.

Q & A

What is the main focus of the video script?

The main focus of the video script is to discuss the changes in the Amazon algorithm and how they impact book rankings and sales on Amazon KDP. It also provides strategies to take advantage of these changes to increase sales and rankings.

Why are the old strategies for Amazon KDP becoming ineffective?

The old strategies for Amazon KDP are becoming ineffective because Amazon's algorithm has evolved, making short-term tactics and spammy practices less effective. Amazon is focusing more on long-term, consistent sales and quality content to provide a better customer experience.

What was a common strategy in the past for boosting book sales on Amazon KDP?

A common strategy in the past for boosting book sales was to have a big boost of sales during a short period of launch, usually within 24 to 72 hours, by stacking all possible promotions and getting as many sales and reviews as possible.

Why does keyword stuffing no longer work for Amazon KDP?

Keyword stuffing no longer works because Amazon has become better at identifying irrelevant or spammy keywords, and it can lead to account suspension for metadata manipulation. The focus should be on fewer but more relevant keywords to avoid confusion and improve ranking.

What is the current strategy for getting better rankings on Amazon KDP?

The current strategy for better rankings involves maintaining consistent sales over a longer period, using fewer but more relevant keywords, obtaining real and verified reviews, and bringing in external traffic to Amazon.

How does Amazon's focus on customer experience influence its algorithm changes?

Amazon's focus on customer experience influences its algorithm changes by prioritizing books that have consistent sales, relevant keywords, and real reviews, as these factors indicate that customers are satisfied with the product, leading to a better overall experience.

What is the significance of the first 30 days for a new book on Amazon KDP according to the script?

The first 30 days are considered the critical ranking period for a new book on Amazon KDP. During this time, the focus should be on consistent sales and rankings rather than immediate profitability.

Why is it important to have a high rate of reviews per sale on Amazon KDP?

A high rate of reviews per sale is important because it signals to Amazon that customers are satisfied with the book, which can lead to better rankings. It also helps to build trust and credibility with potential buyers.

What role does external traffic play in the success of a book on Amazon KDP?

External traffic plays a significant role as it brings new customers to Amazon, which Amazon rewards by potentially ranking the book higher. It also serves as a strong signal to the algorithm that the book is in demand.

What is the 'customer-first' publishing approach mentioned in the script?

The 'customer-first' publishing approach is a mindset where publishers prioritize creating high-quality books that customers will enjoy and find valuable. This approach aligns with Amazon's focus on customer satisfaction and can lead to better rankings and sales.