Your essential guide to Google Plus

Google+ is Google's latest foray into the social networking world. Since its invitation-only launch on June 28, 2011 and public launch on September 20, 2011, it has taken off at a fast pace. Now with more than 62 million users, and growing at an average rate of 625,000 new users per day, Google+ has the potential to grow to over 400 million users in 2012 (source). With numbers like that, it is no doubt that if you haven't paid attention to Google+ by now, you should.

One of the reasons many people are wary of jumping on board with Google+ is because of Google's track history with social networks. Orkut, Google Buzz, and Google Wave are examples of Google's attempts at social networking that never fully panned out, although Orkut is still going strong Brazil, India, and Japan (source). So how can you tell that Google+ is the real deal and ready for the long haul?

The answer is in how much Google has already embedded Google+ into their network. If you are signed into your Google account, you are greeted by your latest notifications within Gmail, Google Docs, Google Calendar, and other Google products. You can also see Google+ popping up in search results, whether or not you are signed in to Google.

If you are not quite sure whether you are ready to jump into Google+, stay tuned. We will be looking into the pros of having both a Google+ personal profile and page. For those who are ready to start building their personal and professional brand on Google+, or those just looking for best practices, we will share a step by step setup guide and tips on how to use Google+.

  1. Illustration for Why have a Google Plus personal page?

    Why have a Google Plus personal page? Posted by Kristi Hines on 20 January 2012

    Before you jump into creating a Google+ page for your business, you will need a Google+ personal profile. Aside from the ability to create and administer Google+ pages, there are several other great reasons to have a Google+ personal profile. Kristi Hines explains what those reasons are.

  2. Illustration for How to set up a Google Plus personal profile

    How to set up a Google Plus personal profile Posted by Kristi Hines on 20 January 2012

    Ready to get started with Google+? The following guide by blogging expert Kristi Hines will help you set up your Google+ personal profile.

  3. Illustration for Why have a Google Plus business page?

    Why have a Google Plus business page? Posted by Kristi Hines on 20 January 2012

    After reading about all of the advantages of Google+ personal profiles, you might be asking yourself why you would need a Google+ page in addition to your personal profile. While much of the design and functionality of the Google+ page is similar to personal profiles, there are some additional benefits to having a Google+ page. Kristi Hines explains what they are.

  4. Illustration for How to set up a Google Plus business page

    How to set up a Google Plus business page Posted by Kristi Hines on 20 January 2012

    Ready to get started with Google+ pages? The following guide by professional blogger Kristi Hines will help you set up a Google+ page for your business.

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