Google+’s Extras

• Questions and Answers: While Yahoo Answers may be a top rated site for questions and answers, the LinkedIn Q&A section actually is taken far more seriously, and thus has better quality answers to pertinent questions. These are questions asked by professionals and answered by professionals, all parties eager to represent their brand with class and intelligence. By showcasing your knowledge, in this rare instance, a case where people actually DO want to talk about business concepts, you can draw people to your profile which contains all of your social media links and website URL. Another idea to consider: carefully choose the questions you answer, knowing that “big name” company spokespersons will be among the first to reply. Rest assured, they all read the comments, and will notice your name (and company representation) if you impress them. LinkedIn is special in that it’s a great place to meet new customers and new clients at the same time. Just be sure to avoid giving the same answers to all new questions.

• Profile Stats: You can actually see trends and statistics on who viewed your profile, a great way of finding potential new business links or customers.

• Find Jobs: You can search for jobs directly using the jobs tab and can post jobs, apply for jobs or post a resume online, which could lead searches to you.

• Find Companies: You can search for individuals as well as company-grouped profiles, or follow companies you find relevant to your industry.

• See News: Check out the latest news from the “news” section and see how various companies relate to it. Follow influential people and their actions. You may even link with them, which will work wonders for your traffic if a big name ever blurbs you.

Google+’s Extras

Google Plus, to some, seems like a bit of overkill—or at least it did when it first debuted. It’s not as sociable as Facebook or as simple to use as Twitter. However, some of the newest features of Google + are making the site extremely competitive—perhaps even