While typically a chronic sufferer of “shiny object syndrome”, I’ve somehow withstood the draw of Google’s entry into social since Google+ debuted its invitation-only field test in June 2011. Typically they would’ve had me at “invitation only”, but, like many, I overlooked this social platform as “just another social media account”. And, at the time, I felt professionally and personally there was still much to learn and master with Facebook, Twitter and LinkedIn.
However, in the last several months, I’ve experienced a broadening of my perspective on social marketing, specifically the impact that my personal social presence has on my company’s search engine optimization (SEO – our ability to “be found”). The reality is this: I want DMA Solutions to be found and I want us to be a relevant resource to the fresh produce industry. Not only in-person at tradeshows or through industry press coverage, but in the ever-living 24-hour/day presence of a digital world. And the truth is that all social media and search engine optimization are intertwined.
When someone Google searches “Fresh Produce Marketing”, “Certified Inbound Marketer”, “Social Media Speaker”, or “Karaoke Queen”, I want DMA Solutions or my name to be on the first page of results! “Wait Dan’l, can’t you just pay for that?” No, that’s very 2010 thinking. Being relevant and being found today is about contribution, content and consistency. And, I’ve realized, that nothing supports those Three C’s better than optimizing your digital presence through all available platforms so that your company and your name DO appear on page one. Google+ plays one of the most valuable roles because of the weight that it’s given in Google’s search algorithm. Therefore, Google+ cannot be ignored.
Google+, at its roots, IS GOOGLE. And I’ve experienced, in just my short time as an enlightened Google+-er, that participating in Google’s social platform personally will benefit my company on Google, as well. We also feel that the increased SEO alone will be a big benefit for brands and companies who invest time and effort in creating a Google+ presence. Our team is diving into the deep end of Google+, too, and we’ll be reporting on our discoveries, successes and, hopefully few, challenges.
Don’t just take my word for it. Check out these articles from The Wall Street Journal and Fast Company. And then get found and be relevant by empowering someone in your company to contribute consistent content across the web. Or hire a group to help with this effort (shameless plug).