Google has launched a new feature called Google +1 (plus one). This new feature is very similar to a Facebook ‘Like’ except that it appears on the search results page in Google. There has been a lot of talk about this feature, and questions coming our way here at eCarList. So, let me touch on what Google +1 is and how it may affect your business.
First of all, be aware that as of now +1 is not a ranking factor in organic or paid results. Google has said that it ‘may’ use this in the future, as with other social indicators. However, Google said it will not have a factor in quality scoring on the PPC side – though CTR could increase which could help you.
Right now what we do know is that +1 will have a social impact on your website traffic which could (and probably will) have an impact with online leads. However, the only people who can use the +1 feature are those who have Google profiles. Those who do not, well, they will have to either create a profile or just not use this feature. This will help alleviate those who try to scam the system. A competitor will not be able to go to their own listing and +1 it all day, as they will need a profile and, with that profile, can only vote once. This keeps the black hat SEO games to a minimum, though I suspect as this plays out there will be ways found to exploit the feature.
Currently the only way to participate in this feature is to turn it on within your profile. The link can be hard to find, but try this to turn on your Google +1 feature ( http://www.google.com/experimental/index.html). Once turned on, you will start seeing the icons next to listings when doing your search in Google. Just simply click the +1 button, and your done! You, as well as those in your network, will see your recommendation next time the website comes up in a search by those users.
You may be wondering how this new feature can be utilized within your dealership. We here at eCarList are examining the possibilities, but we do see that with the option of the button being implemented on dealer websites (www.ecarlist.com) as well, this will be a great way to get that positive feedback from your customers. Imagine having a customer, who is waiting on financing, go online and log into Google. You can have them +1 your site if they feel that their experience was a positive one. This certainly does not take away from Google reviews, but it will help with those that do not have the time or desire to fill out a review. The Google +1 website feature is not available as of yet, but you can sign up for it so that you will be notified when it’s available ( https://services.google.com/fb/forms/plusonesignup/).
So, do you think that this new feature is a plus or not? Let us know in the comments section what your thoughts are on this.
Written by Patrick Prestriedge
eCarList SEO & Social Marketing Strategist
The post Will you be my +1? appeared first on Dealertrack Interactive and Inventory Blog.
