Google+ Tips

If you’ve been following my blogs and articles and more on Google Plus, and have tried out the new social network, perhaps you’re wondering, “Now what?” Truth is, so am I. with all the changes to Facebook (many of which making Facebook more like Google Plus) and a slow start to the Google network how do you make the best use of Plus and Plus Pages for business? (If you haven’t started a business profile yet, read this.)

If you haven’t already done so, use the circles! Put clients in one, prospects in another, people you follow for marketing tips (ahem, Fletcher Freelance) in another. Then you decide how much business you share with family and how much of your personal life you share with business associates.

Think SEO. You’re Google profile should be visible to the public. Use SEO and copywriting principles when writing your profile and sharing in your stream. Include a keyword or two in your subtitle. Take advantage of the Introduction, Bragging Rights, and Occupation, but don’t get too carried away and make them strictly keyword lists. Include simple calls to action. Ask for input. Add headlines to links.

Let’s get visible. Customize your profile by creating information specific to your circles. If your Introduction is a compelling piece of copy that sells your services, have only prospects and clients see it. put your achievements in Bragging Rights and select who get to see them.

Apply text styles to your updates. Tag people. Get creative. Check out this Google+ Style Cheat Sheet. When your updates are more attractive and easier to read, more people will see them.

Consider a vanity URL. Although at this time Google Plus isn’t offering an easy way to change your mile-long address. Some have suggested altering your Google profile before signing up for Plus or using an app. You can also create a redirect from a page on your site to your profile.

Commit. As with any marketing, the biggest fault of those who try social media marketing is to stop too soon. If you expect results you need to be engaging and commit to posting regularly. Stay disciplined and track your results. Soon you’ll be getting business from Google Plus!