Google recently rolled out Google+ Business Pages but what are they and how do they work? Here we take a look at some of the features of Google+ Business Pages.What Exactly Are Google+ Business Pages?

Much the same as Facebook business Pages, Google+ Business Pages are a profile for a business, company, organisation or celebrity. You can update information, share blogs, post updates and show photos and videos to others but they have to be in your ‘Circles’ to view what you are sharing.What Are Circles?Circles are groups of people, companies and organisations that have followed you. In much the same way as Twitter, people are able to ‘follow’ you on Google+ by putting you in to their Circles. You will be notified of the add but this is not something you have to accept or reject as it automatically happens.Adding businesses, companies and relevant people to your Circles is one of the best ways to gain followers on Google+. Similar to other social media sites, the more people you follow and the more following you, the more you build your business’ brand awareness.What are Hangouts?Hangouts are a webcam enabled feature where you can have conversations over the internet with your followers. This is a great way to demonstrate to customers and clients how your product works and answer any questions they may have. The Muppets recently did a hangout on their Google+ Business Page that was extremely successful, with fans being able to have real time conversations with all their favourite characters. To have a look at The Muppets video invitation for the hangout session, have a look here.So, should I get it?Google+ Business Pages are not for all businesses. If you regularly share information on Facebook and Twitter, having a Google+ Business Page can be a great new medium to share information through. But you have to be mindful not to repeat yourself on social media sites as followers on Twitter are most likely fans of your Facebook Page as well and vice versa. It can be a good idea to break your social media information into groups or formats of news. For example, using Twitter for immediate updates about your business, use Facebook for conversational and casual communications, and use Google+ for more formal and informative news. You can always have a look at Bang Online’s Google+ Page for inspiration.Remember you can always contact Bang Online if you would like a Google+ Business Page setup for your business or organisation or want more information about them.