Do I need to have a Google+ Page?

I get asked the question “Do I need a Google+ page?” a lot, and the answer I give people is “Yes, you do. Google+ may not be your primary social media channel, but it is a Google property, and as such, should not be ignored.

What are the basic elements for your Google+ page?

1. A good image of you, especially if you are going to be online in any professional capacity. If it’s a company business page, then your logo is fine.
2. Put in a new header image, replace the default profile image with one of your personalized images. Anything, just be original. A square logo is fine.
3. Fill in all the information, including adding links to your primary social media channels.
4. Complete your description. If you are a Chiropractor, make sure that term is in your description including the town name where your practice is located.
5. Images, include at least 10 images. For a business page, include images of your business, your team, your products if possible.
6. Verify your profile if it is a local page. You can do this in a number of ways, I prefer calling, then verifying by email, and last using the snail mail.
   

   The check mark next to the logo means the page is verified.

7. Verify your domain email address.
8. Include your contact info including phone if desired.

Those are the basics.

How often do I have to update my Google+ page or profile.

I suggest that my clients update their Google+ page at a minimum monthly, but like any other social media channel, you are going to get more from it if you invest more time.

What can I post to my Google+ Page?

1. Blog updates or updates to your website.
2. Share updates to your other social media channels.
3. Public service announcements
4. For local pages, share current events like concerts, plays, fairs, etc.
5. Share reviews of restaurants.
6. Share YouTube videos related to your business.

Okay, that is enough of the basics of Google+, for the company or person that wants to set up a Google+ page, and pretty much set it and forget it.

About the author

Adam is the Social Media Director at Baldy Dog Search Strategies, and is also the lead on all local SEO at BaldyDog.