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New Google+ Communities

What are Google+ Communities?

Early this month, Google+ rolled out Google communities, to allow people to join discussion groups about their personal interests. Google + communities can be created as private or public, depending on who you want to join, and they work in a similar way to Facebook groups. Google +, however, offers the facility to virtually 'hang out' with people in your community. This means that you can have a video conference with them on your screen.  For example, if you love Greenday and join the Greenday Community, you can Google 'hangout' with other members of the community to discuss their new releases!

Three key ways to use Google+ Communities

1. Gather people together -  It could be for for your family, your local club or people around the world who share your interests.  Google+ communities allows you together people together in an online group. 
2. Have rich and focussed conversations - You can post photos and videos to the community to share with other members. You can also plan events and have face-to-face discussions in a Google 'hangout'.
3. Research and Explore your interests
By joining a Google + community you can find out the latest news and new ideas from others in your community. Whether you are a food junkie, a football fanatic or a volunteer for a particular charity, you will be constantly updated.  You might even meet some new people with similar interests!




Ideas for using Google+ Communities for Business
  1. Create a community for your fans to discuss your business. This will work better for some businesses than others, for example if you have a band or a label that people want to talk about.
  2. Join communities related to your product or sevice and join in discussions. For example, if you work in social media, you might want to join the Social Media Marketing Community. Don't be too pushy, simply give positive and educated opinion to enhance your profile, and people will find your brand through you. Basically, become a thought leader in your business area.
  3. Use Google+ communities for market research. What does your target market want?  What are they interested in?
  4. Social Media Listening - listen to what people are saying about your brand or product, and act on feedback. Consider people's opinions when developing a new product or service. Listen to what people are saying about your competitors.
  5. Refer traffic to your website - but only when appropriate! Don't overdo it or SPAM.

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