When Google+ launched with great fanfare last year, you may have cringed a bit – ugh! Another social network? Is this new platform worth adding to your Social Media to-do list? Truth be told, there’s plenty to admire about the Google+ platform…easy to set up and use and there is ample, interesting content to explore and share:
- Like on Facebook, you can have a personal G+ profile and a G+ Page for your business/brand.
- You can use your stream to post updates, alerts, photos, videos, and participate in discussions.
- Unlike Facebook, you can sort people into Circles to limit who sees your message/ content.
- “Hangout” with friends, family, and customers via live video chat.
All of the above help you engage your audience and build deeper relationships by sharing your thoughts and behind-the-scenes insights. The real question you should be asking is, “Does it make sense for my business to have a Google+ presence?” I have put together several Pros, Cons and thoughts to help you make an informed decision. Plus, you can check out How to Use Google+ for Businesses, from HubSpot in the WGC website Resources section.
PROS
Circles: You can create Circles based on themes or categories, such as Prospects, Loyal Ambassadors or Stay-at-Home Mom Bloggers…and add G+ users to whatever Circle you choose (multiple Circles may apply). Then you can share content with whichever Circle(s) you choose or deem relevant for your content.
Google+ Hangouts: Hangouts let you set up high-quality video conversations with up to nine other people. According to an informal survey by Lifehacker, G+ Hangouts are readers’ choice for online meeting services, beating out WebEx, GoTo Meeting, TeamViewer and Join.Me.
Google+ Pages: G+ Pages let you share your branded message with the world. Refer to Google+ for Business’ Get Started Page to learn how to create a Page, promote it, and measure its effectiveness.
CONS
Still struggling with adoption rate – While G+ has 40+M users, many argue it feels like “no one uses G+” in reality. G+ has definitely drawn a tech-hungry, “early adopter” crowd, but that could work well for you, depending on your type of business. Check out Lifehacker’s post on What Good Is Google+ If My Friends Don’t Use It? for other benefits.
Privacy concerns: Users have expressed concerns about data and search privacy, especially since Google integrated profiles across its various networks. Read PC World’s Google Privacy Checklist for some insights and a to-do list to safeguard your personal or business privacy. WGC’s
OPINION
As with all Social Media networks and tools, I say give it a try. Spend time creating a profile and following other users. Share updates and relevant blog or business info links. Ask your customers if they use Google+ and what they think of it. If after two or three months, you do not see any traffic or results/ feedback from consumers or fellow users, focus your social time elsewhere. Internet marketing is constantly in flux – being flexible and willing to try new things is the best attitude you can develop.
Please remember WGC is here for you – I’d love to chat with you about your marketing strategy and whether Google+ (or any other platform) makes sense for your business. Contact WGC today or give me a call to get started on your Social Media & Marketing adventure!
Socially Yours,
Will Gladhart
Will Gladhart Consulting, LLC