Google+
Google+ shares many of the same characteristics as Facebook, and although not a popular, it is still an important social network to be involved on. Google+ has the same fun, casual atmosphere where users can upload and share rich media. Google+ has different segmenting features, like Facebook groups, called Google+ Communities that allow you to partake in conversations and share industry-related content.
Having a presence on Google+ will benefit a business’s keyword search and search engine optimization. Although lesser well known than Facebook and Twitter, Google+ is one of the most popular social networking websites. Google features, such as YouTube and Google Maps, also further the integrated social experience within the online Google community.
Using Google+
To directly segment those you are connected with, Google+ allows users to group followers in “circles” based on criteria such as interests, colleagues, business contacts, and more. Google+ users also benefit from Google Hangouts, a chat service using video or text to talk with multiple people simultaneously. Hosting a how-to video session or a live question and answer session allows you to market your business on the next level. Google+ has also enabled picture editing for pictures posted on the network. These features allow you to connect and cater to multiple audiences in numerous ways.
Google+ integration with Gmail, YouTube, Maps, Chrome and the Google Play store makes the Google experience simple and efficient—one login for all. Creating Google Events, similar to Facebook events, are a great way to promote activities or sessions your business puts on throughout the year. A Google+ Business page, similar to Facebook Pages, gives you an extension that neatly highlights your business while increasing your search results.
To best publicize your business on Google+, consider the following tips:
- Be visual and post pictures, infographics, or videos instead of routine text posts
- Start up or participate in a community to share knowledge and ask questions
- Keep an updated profile and Business Page—fine tune details and your summary to impact search results
- Share your own industry-related content and do not be afraid to share other business’s content
- Encourage feedback and engage with your followers and potential customers
What to Avoid
Yes, you should respond to customer feedback on Google+, but do so cautiously. Responding to complaints in wordy back-and-forths can be damaging or add to online negativity. If a comment or post becomes negative, it can affect everyone monitoring or just beginning to read the post.
Be careful of falling into a forced-advertising habit. Advertising directly on your page turns fans away as it becomes forced and takes a step back from the conversational environment. When posting advertisements, deals, offers or services on Google+, do so in a social manner. Posting only advertisements without accompanying social content will annoy your followers.
Lastly, do not let your page go dormant.
Increasing Your Circles, Followers and Popularity
To boost your overall popularity on Google+, you must continue sharing interesting content and connect with your audience, but you also need to let people know you are on Google+.
It is important to continue notifying customers that you have a Google+ presence, as well as any other social media network presence. Creating “+1” or “g+” buttons on blog posts, your website and emails is a great way to notify clients you are on Google+. Placing Google+ and other social network logos with links to your pages are essential in spreading your online presence. Inviting your business contacts to visit your page can also boost your page’s traffic.
The End Goal
Successful businesses use Google+ to let customers get to know the people behind the logo. Google+ allows companies to portray themselves in a friendly, sociable manner, as a place where customers are treated well and everybody knows your name. It sounds cliché, but it is true.
Google+ should liven up the workplace for clients and invite customers to join in the fun. Google+ acts as a doorway you want customers to walk through. Once you capture your own branding on Google+, then it can become a very significant lead generator when fans become loyal and excited by your work and services.
If you are ready to begin, learn how to set up your Google+ page below.
How to Start: 4 Steps
*You will need to establish your own personal Google+ account first before setting up a Google+ Business Page
Step 1: Create a Google+ account and follow step-by-step instructions or create a Google+ Business Page and follow the step-bye-step instructions
Step 2: Invite your friends and colleagues, share your page, and invite your business contacts
Step 3: Begin posting. Follow the advice above to communicate with your audience
Step 4: To further boost and engage audiences, check out 4 Site Digital’s Google Advertising page
For more information and help, contact one a digital marketing consultant at 4 Site Digital or check out Google+ Help page.