Google has officially launched a new share button, +1, that allows your website visitors to recommend your content. +1 also works for search results and paid search ads, as well as Google’s other properties like You Tube.
It’s similar to how the Facebook like button works, in that you can see how many people have given the content props and if someone in your Google network has +1ed something (that really doesn’t work that well as a verb :)), you will see their name. It’s yet another way to share and promote content, and since it’s Google’s own, I’m gonna bet that it will make a big difference in search result rankings.
Here’s Google’s explanation of the +1 button:
In order to use +1, you’re going to have to create yet another social media profile, this time a Google one.
And this is where I think the kicker is. It only takes a minute to set up the profile, but will regular folks actually bother? Google has made other forays into social, and they flopped big time.
So on to whether or not you should care about this for your small business…
I say YES if…
- getting good search engine rankings is crucial to your business (ie. your customers find you by searching on Google)
- your target market is techie, internet savvy people that would be more likely to adopt something like this
If the above points don’t apply to your small business, I say don’t worry about it for now. Your to-do list is already long enough. Wait it out and see if this will actually catch on. I will definitely keep you all updated if it becomes a must-have phenomena that is being adopted the web over.
If you’re gonna give the button a go, SocialMouths has some great links for getting it going in WordPress. If you’re not on WordPress, or don’t do the backend stuff yourself, you’ll have to get your web guy or gal to do it for you. If you’re technically inclined and aren’t afraid of website code, here is where you can get the code from Google.
If you’re interested in seeing some of the debate around this new button, check out what Outspoken Media has to say.
As always, any questions or doubts, just let me know!
Comments, likes and tweets are always appreciated! Did I mention that I LOVE your feedback?
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My name is Martina and I’m a 
{ 6 comments… read them below or add one }
Hi Martina,
I actually just activated this on my site last night. I certainly think it’s something worth implementing at this point.
Have a great day!
Jk Allen recently posted..Being the Standard and Creating a Lasting Impression
Hi JK,
Yes, I would say that anyone with a strong online presence, such as yours, with a focus on blogging and creating a large audience, would benefit from the +1 button. I’ve got one going too, so we’ll see how it goes! Thanks for stopping by 🙂
I just added this to my site yesterday, wasn’t real sure about the necessity but I had seen it on other very successful blogs so I thought I would give it a try.
Todd | Channelingmyself recently posted..Obama…Monsanto’s Puppet
Hi Todd,
Yeah, I’m in the same boat as you. Since it’s so easy to get up and running, figured I might as well. I think it makes sense for bloggers to give it a go. And from what I’ve been reading, many industry experts seem to think +1 is here to stay. Thanks for your comment!
Had this article recommended via twitter – assume it’s OK to link to it? Thanks for your thoughts.
Ah, that comes over ridiculously spammy, I’m sorry. I am a real person, really linking from a real post on a real blog. I’ve even pushed the google +1 button on this post too, dunno if there’s anyway you can see who has done that though.
liveotherwise recently posted..Everyone has a story
Hi Jax,
Thanks for the +1! At the moment, it’s not possible to see who has +1ed something unless they are part of your Google network. It’s similar to how you can see who has liked something on Facebook only if they are your friend.
And yes, linking to other posts is always a great idea. It’s a good way to start a relationship with the writer and show your appreciation for their content. Thanks for the link and glad to connect with you!