Monday, February 15, 2010

Google Buzz and Your Business


If you use Gmail, you've probably been invited to use, or have already started using, Google Buzz. This new feature piggybacks on Gmail users' already-established contacts and allows them to share comments, pictures, video, etc., for your Buzz followers to see—similar to status updates on Facebook. Google Buzz's capabilities for mobile users are so popular that reviewers have already created a buzz of their own. Here's what some tech writers are saying about it so far.

Mike Elgan of Computerworld notes the powerful way Google Buzz can be used to promote business among mobile users. Utilizing mobile devices' GPS capabilities and Google Maps, Buzz allows mobile users to see Buzz posts made by those in their near geographic area. What's more, anyone in the area can see the posts—they don't need to be following you, as they do using Facebook or Twitter.

“If you own a small business that relies on foot traffic, embrace Buzz immediately,” writes Elgan. “You can broadcast the availability of specials or sales. You can even use the real-time nature of Buzz to implement flex pricing. Too many loaves of bread, empty theater seats or other perishable items? Cut the price and broadcast the sale. People nearby will see it and come running. In addition to selling to existing customers, you'll win new ones.”

Kevin Getch, president of Portland, Oregon-based web design and SEO firm Evolve 24/7, speculates on the potential for businesses to gain attention from mobile users Buzzing about them. “You can Buzz about a business you like, you don't like, etc.,” he writes. “This is an area where Google is leagues a head of Facebook or Twitter as people who are using Google Maps to search for local businesses will be able to see what other people are saying about this business, much like a review.”

Mashable's Ben Parr called Buzz a “nuclear bomb whose fallout will permanently alter the social media landscape.” He noted that the ease of getting started with the feature—a click of a button for all Gmail users—has contributed to its already strong popularity. Google launched Buzz to an already huge user base and utilizes already-developed social media features that can be integrated into the Buzz experience.

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2 comments:

  1. Its a great review of Google Buzz that has started recently with all the experts views.Thanks for sharing

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  2. Hi.Impressive article..I am excited for your another post..and I was eager to read it!

    ReplyDelete