Have you heard the hype? Google is out to change the world—or at least the online part of it. Chances are, if you’re connected at all, you've heard the rumblings that have marked Google’s entry into the social networking arena with Google Plus.
I’m a small player in a big world, but I’m loving the view from the sideline. I’m observing the polarizing effect this is having as the big dogs take sides. I, for one, am cautiously impressed. After a short time of experimentation I’ve found Google + a big improvement on many of the other options out there.
Here are the things I particularly like:
- Privacy settings. For me, they were easier to navigate and gave me more options than those I've been able to decipher on Facebook. It’s not perfect, although I can choose from more options, once I share a post with someone they have the option to share it and I can’t stop them.
- Circle concept. I like being about to separate my conversations. Many writers (and other professionals) have had to decide whether or not to enter the social networking arena for friends, family or profession. The circles allow me to have ONE account and still keep my private life private.
- Post editing. I can’t help it—I’m an editor at heart—and I like to edit. In Facebook or even Twitter, once I put something out there it either stands or falls . . . as is. With Google + I have the option to edit things I've already posted and decide whether or not to allow comments.
Granted Google + is still in beta mode, but I’m enjoying this new universe. I recommend you find a way to wangle an invitation and begin to test the water. Many thanks to my new friend, Nolan Webb, for my invitation! Let me know what you think.
Don’t forget to join the conversation!
Blessings,
Edie
Edie, do you think this means we have to add ANOTHER social networking plank to our platform? Ugh.
ReplyDeleteRight now, I'm trying to build my social media outlets. I started with Twitter figuring I could handle that a bit easier. Now I'm trying to decide between Facebook and Google+.
ReplyDeleteI'm with Vonda. Do we need both, Edie? Do you know if Google+ will drop the "invitation only" after their trials are over and how long that will be?
I'm on Google plus, but haven't tinkered with it. Grateful to see your thoughts on it. I plan to delve into it more after the summer. Lots of stuff going on, so I'll focus on it during the fall.
ReplyDeleteI'm with Vonda on this one. How much is necessary in this social media world?
ReplyDeleteIs this an invitation only deal? You said you were invited. If that is the case will the scope be as broad as FB and be as useful as a social network?
ReplyDeleteVonda and Sandra, I totally feel your pain! For a while we'll have to deal with both. In your situations I'd take a wait and see attitude. But I think the future is bright and there's a time coming when we'll only have one network to deal with!
ReplyDeleteStacy, I'm glad you've got an invitation and can try it out.
ReplyDeleteEllen, I think you're like Vonda and should take a wait and see attitude.
Linda, The beta version is by invitation only. When they work out an potential bugs it will be open to everyone - and I'm hearing rumors that it will come soon.
Blessings - E
Edie,I just stuck my toe in FB, and don't even have my pic on it yet, so I'm not in too deep to look at something that may prove better in the long run.
ReplyDeleteI like all the points you've made, and appreciate anything that allows for more privacy. I just got an invite, and think I'll check it out.
Thanks for your insights.
I was just wondering this morning if you were familiar with Google + and how one gets to tinker with it...
ReplyDeleteSo, how does someone like me get an invitation? Are only select people allowed to invite people? I'd love to try it out!