Is your business Google+ ready?
In an attempt to drive “meaningful connections” with brands Google has launched Google+ pages for businesses.
Simon Rowell, founder and managing director branding agency Brand Intellect, warned First 5000 members shouldn’t just jump straight onto the medium without preparation.
“The issue for a branding point of view is that you have to spend the time, effort and money on all channels. If they aren’t being managed properly then you shouldn’t be there.”
Google senior vice president of engineering, Vic Gundotra announced the eagerly anticipated move to open Google+ to businesses in a blog post overnight (7 November).
“So far Google+ has focused on connecting people with other people. But we want to make sure you can build relationships with all the things you care about—from local businesses to global brands—so today we’re rolling out Google+ Pages worldwide,” he said.
Gundotra noted that people search on Google extensively, and very often, they’re looking for businesses and brands.
“Today’s launch of Google+ Pages can help people transform their queries into meaningful connections, so we’re rolling out two ways to add pages to circles from Google search. The first is by including Google+ pages in search results.”
Gundotra also announced a new feature called Direct Connect which it is testing with its properties including +YouTube and a number partners including +Toyota. The feature takes a person directly to the company’s Google+ Page when a “+” is placed in front of the brand name.
Michael Stelzner CEO and founder of online social media magazine Social Media Examiner said First 5000 businesses should move very quickly to establish a page on Google+.
“It will likely have a big impact on search and other related Google services.”
You can create your Google+ account here.
Helen Hull is the editor of First 5000, the leading network for mid-sized businesses in Australia.
