Sunday, January 12, 2014

Nonplussed: How Google+ affects every blog

Even if you are not on Google+, someone who is can share your blog to his or her G+ circles.

These shares arrive as personal recommendations from the sharer, usually with his or her photo, a link and, if there is one, an image from your blog. Usually the sharer will add a few thoughts about why your blog post is worth reading.

That's great word-of-mouth publicity that can bring you attention and new readers.

The sharing can continue to circles of circles and beyond.

In addition, Google+ readers can "+1" your posts if you have enabled share buttons in your post template. These mini endorsements can improve the placement of your blog in certain kinds of Google search (though the effect is limited).

With or without a Google+ account, you can view the "+1 count" for your posts on your dashboard in the Posts section. If you have any pluses, the count will be between the author name and the comments count in the tabular listing of posts.
Between author and comments count

What does this mean for you?

If you don't mess with Google+, the network of circles is just another channel for people to find your blog. You don't have to do anything and nothing on your blog changes. I've gotten new readers and followers that way.

Of course, if you do mess with G+, you can actively promote your blog there. Here's how to do that without blowing your cover.

No comments:

Post a Comment