Google+  It’s been around for a while, but most people (we’ll admit this includes us) are still a little unsure about how to use this platform effectively. So we’ve decided to dig some more into everything that can be done to market or grow businesses on this platform.

The profile you create on Google + should have a dynamic “about” section which highlights your best work, let others get to know you, help you gain new followers, and drive traffic to your site.  

There are a lot of boxes and options to select when creating a profile so be patient.  It’s more like setting up your personal Facebook profile than setting up any of the other social media profiles you started for your business, but here you’re sharing your blog posts, products/services, and best content.

Some things to know:

• Google wants you to use your own name for your Google+ profile.  If you use your business name instead of a real name, you could be banned.
• Custom URL. Take advantage of the chance to make a custom URL out of your profile name. This is great SEO juice when people are searching for you online. Here’s what your custom URL will look like:  https://plus.google.com/+YourName  This is one case where it’s quite a bummer that you can’t use your business name.  Here’s a really quick and easy tutorial on getting your custom URL.
• Cover Photo. Some sources recommend making your cover photo very similar to your blog cover, and the branding you use everywhere else. This makes sense for small sites and brands who are just getting started (like ours).  Make your brand feel familiar and cohesive.
• Size Guidelines for Cover. Recommended size: 1080 x 608 pixels. Minimum size: 480 x 270 pixels.    Maximum size: 2120 x 1192 pixels.  Canva has a Google+ Header Template that you can use.
• Tagline.  Theoretically, this should be short and to-the-point.  You can view it as your manifesto or a statement of how you can help people.  However, it can also be very helpful to include some keywords you’d like to target.
• Introduction. The best way to think about your Introduction is to view it like your About Page.  Share a little bit about you, but mostly, share how you can help others. Use bullets and lists to make this section easier to read.  Sprinkle in relevant keywords (for good SEO juice!) but don’t be obvious or list off buzzwords that have no meaning.  Use natural language.  Don’t forget to highlight the topics you love to cover the most and link to several places on your site.
• Bragging Rights. It may be wise to skip this section altogether.  You don’t want to come across as arrogant or caring only about titles, awards, and labels.   You can use this section to highlight random, fun, personal facts about yourself, but make sure it fits into your persona or your business’ brand.  We’re laid-back, approachable, real people, and easy to get to know.
• Connect other Social Profiles. Add your social profiles and you may gain a few new followers on other social platforms.
• Education, Work History, & Other Personal Details. Many of the big brands on Google plus just leave these sections completely blank. You should include it however as a way that more people can find and connect with you. Down the road as our site and brand grows, we may delete these sections.

Introduction – 6 Things to Know

1. Your Site.  What it’s all about & how you help others
2. Main Topics covered on your site, with links.
3. Email List. Include an invitation to join your email list.  Make it compelling.  Again, offer a benefit to the reader.
4. Your favorite blog posts.
5. Include suggestions for what circles you’d be a great fit for.
6. Products you sell.  Highlight and link to these.  Do this in a natural way, again, highlighting how they can help the reader.

 Brownie Communication Concepts