Unlike social media networks such as Facebook and Twitter, Google+ can be classified as a “social platform”.  It is slightly different because it is invitation only and relies heavily upon exclusive networks. Not too many people know much about Google+ because it is still so new but critics argue that the marketing possibilities of Google+ should not be taken for granted.

Google+ Marketing

So why use Google+? For starters, it is always important to stay up to date with current media trends.  You never know what site will suddenly become the next big thing so it is a good idea to know your way around every aspect of social media.  If you want to generate buzz and evoke curiosity about your product, Google+ is the place to be.  Because of the limited networks, your product will only be available for viewing to exclusive members, who can then invite friends, family, and colleagues to join the network.. All of this buzz and invitation networking will draw in curious outsider to your product.

Google+ Getting Started

The first step to use Google+ is to get an invite from a friend or someone you know currently using Google+.  You will need a Gmail account to do this.  As with other marketing strategies, you should then decide on your target audience and who or what influences and is connected to your audience.  You should now create Circles, which are like the various groups you have different relationships with. Include the following: High Priority, Raving Fans, Target Audience, Influencers, Buyers, and Interactors.

Google+ Profile

Once your account has been created, you can fill in the About Me section and upload a professional photo. When writing your About Me section, keep in mind your target audience and how you want to be perceived.  You can talk about your previous employment, education, achievements, and any other information that will get your audience interested in networking with you.  Make your profile even better by uploading a few more professional photos and filling in links to other networks so viewers can find you online.

It’s time to start posting! Start with a few personal and generic posts to the public to give your profile a less “businessy” feel. After, drive traffic to your website by inviting others to take an action.  Post a message that shares a tip or other exclusive information that is valuable to your target audience.  If a viewer likes what they see, they will add you to one of their Google+  Circles and also be driven to check out your product.

Scraping with Google+

“Scraping” in Google+ is like finding new friends or followers on other social media sites.  To scrape, go to one of your Influencer’s profiles and locate the section that shows all that people that “Have (Influencer’s Name) in their circles.” After you press “View All,” you can go through the list of names and add them into your Target Audience every day.  Instant networking! Aim for about 200 scrapes every day and your network will gain immense popularity and stature.

Check in on your Google+ profile periodically.  Interacting with your audience is key so make sure to keep posting updates and answering any questions other may have posted for you.  The more interaction with your audience, the more traffic to your Google+ profile and the more business to your product!