One obvious feature that Facebook had over Google+ was the opportunity to create a page for your business. This was, of course, a major plus (pardon the pun) for Facebook when it came to staying at the pulse of everything happening in your world. That was then, this is now. Introducing Google+ for Business.
How Businesses Interact With People
Google+ is a bit stricter on how brands can communicate with you, promoting this as an anti-spam measure. The control of the relationship is solely with the user, and it’s important to note that this is a reciprocal relationship; meaning that they can follow you and you can follow then. When they decide to unfollow you, you can no longer follow them. Total control by the user.
The great thing about Google+ pages is you can mention people as a business, which is something that’s always been a bit annoying about Facebook pages. You had to be a personal friend to mention a client on your page, blurring the lines between a personal and a professional relationship.
Pros/Cons of Google+
Most people will be wondering what the difference between the two pages is and whether or not they should bother setting up a Google+ page. The immediate benefit of doing so is that Google+ is a bit more prolific on the web, thanks to their parent company….ahem Google! What this means for your business is that activity and having a page in Google+ will help your search rankings. The true benefits, however, are probably too technical for this blog so we will save the ‘nerd-speak’ for another time. Just trust us when we say your webmaster should be salivating at the thought of this opportunity.
Some of the cons are the obvious ones: still young and no one is entirely sure who and what this network will attract. Most of you are probably thinking “Should I start a page” and the real answer here isn’t an easy one. Most local businesses are strapped for time and can barely focus on being active on one network, let alone two.
So here’s our answer to that question: unless you have someone that can realistically designate time to being successful one both networks don’t dilute your efforts just yet. Wait it out a bit longer until the impact of Google+ business pages comes out in the wash.
If you want to get started right away and want help, just give us a call.
Author Bio: Valorie Reavis
Social Marketer, foodie, closet geekA marketing professional who has focused primarily on the hair and beauty business for of the past decade, Valorie now runs linkup marketing, a digital marketing agency for the hair and beauty professional. Valorie works to engage clients in the marketing process and help them successfully engage with their clients and community. Energetic and passionate about the industry, Valorie focuses on blending traditional and digital media in order to bring salons closer to their clients.
