Have you noticed lately the buzz surrounding Google+ in the tech world? While still in its infancy, Google+ is being hailed as a Facebook alternative one minute, then blasted as being already dead in its inception. So what’s going on, and what should you do as a local business owner?What’s all the buzz about?
First of all, Google’s approach has been to supplement the entire Google structure with a “social layer.” This has already been applied to Blogger (users can now user their Google+ profile instead of a separate Blogger profile) and Google News (in the form of the Spotlight feature, showing +1s from those in your circles). Google Readerhas been updated as well, much to the chagrin of users who disliked the loss of “friending, following, shared items and comments,” all replaced by Google+ features. It seems obvious that integrated features will continue to expand rapidly into other Google products as well.No progress can be made without some alterations. With the advent of a brand new and vast project, Google has previously announced they would be shutting down many projects. The list includes Aardvark, Notebook, Sidewiki, Google Buzz, and Jaiku. A month ago, a third round of projects to be retired has been announced, including Google Friend Connect on non-Blogger sites, Wave, and Knol.
Should I have another social network?
There have been many concerns about having “yet another” social network to keep up with. Most business owners already are spending time between their Facebook profile/page(s), YouTube, and Twitter being primary three and, as of now, the most important. However, Google+ broke into the top ten social networks early in October and has continued to rise in influence.
As a business owner, it is essential you create a Google+ profile for yourself. While Google+ was in beta, we released a video to show how a business owner’s profile would show up in search results; now it is typical to see Google+ results in searches.
And after I have a profile?
Once you have your Google+ profile created, it is time to create your Google+ brand page. Here’s what Google says about it from their blog: “Google+ pages help you connect with the customers and fans who love you. Not only can they recommend you with a +1, or add you to a circle to listen long-term. They can actually spend time with your team, face-to-face-to-face. All you need to do is start sharing, and you’ll soon find the super fans and loyal customers that want to say hello.”
Pages are simple to add but it’s important to do things the right way. Here’s a few things to keep in mind when you are creating your page.
- Make sure you add a profile picture and populate your page with some content. Remember that it’s important to be aesthetically pleasing and look as if your page has been around longer than a few minutes. Customize the scrapbook photos on top of your profile.
- Let your fans know from other social networks that you are on Google+. This is as simple as a tweet or post saying, “Check out our new profile on Google+.” Be sure to include the link!
- Connect your website with Google+. This is easily done by including the code provided by Google+, adding the badge or icon (it’s also possible to add the code without either). This will make you eligible for Google Direct Connect.
- Use Google+ features to your advantage. Hangouts can connect you with followers and potential customers. You can quickly upload YouTube videos you own (and those you find) to your page.
What’s next?
Additionally, you can call us today to learn more about working with Green Chile Marketing to implement a Google+ brand page right away. We offer several packages that integrate your Google+ brand page into all other marketing efforts to give you the maximum results from your marketing dollars. We can customize a marketing plan to fit the needs of your Albuquerque company. It’s time to spice up your business!
{ 0 comments }
