WebProNews

Ask made a rather embarrassing admission earlier this week: its third most popular search term for 2008 was [Google].  Now, although we can't say if a similar exit pattern exists, Yahoo has taken an interesting step towards heading off its own Google-bound visitors.

Search for [Google] from Yahoo.com, and above the first result, you'll see a simple statement: "You could go to Google.  Or you could stay here and get straight to your answers."  Then, at least some of the time, Yahoo provides a second search box.  Similar responses are given if you search for [Ask] or [Live].

 

Displaying the second search box and a brief explanation is rather kinder (if less funny) than calling users dummies and describing how address bars work.

The approach could be effective, too.  Depending on how many people use Yahoo to find other search engines, it could lead to a significant boost in Yahoo's share of the search market.  What's more, Google might feel a pinch, although its huge starting size would lessen any effect.

Anyway, a hat tip goes to Barry Schwartz, and Yahoo deserves a bit of credit for providing an afternoon chuckle.