Be Better at Everything: How to use Google+
August 17, 2011 by admin
Filed under Lingerie Events
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jessica@dmjuice.com
08/16/2011 email this print this
Google+ is the new kid on the social network block, combining elements of Facebook and Twitter with new features like “hangouts,” “huddles” and “circles.” Nathan Wright, founder of social media consulting firm Lava Row, explains the best ways to use the new network.
Circles: Circles are a way to categorize people. It’s the first thing you’ll want to set up. “On Facebook, you have your mom, grandma, friend, boss — everyone in one spot,” Wright said. “Creating circles gives you a more private space to post things and see only a select group of people’s updates.”
You can have several different circles — one for family, one for friends, one for following other network users whom you think post valuable updates, and so on. It means your buddies can see your Monday morning status of “Too many tequila shots, worthless at work today.” And your boss won’t.
Hangouts: Hangouts allow you to have a face-to-face-to-face conversation with up to 10 people in a circle. “You can see multiple people on a ‘Brady Bunch’-style grid,” Wright said. “It’s like Skype, but with several people at once.”
The beauty of the hangout? You only meet who you want to meet. Kinda like the man cave, there are no random, uninvited guests in the hangout. “It’s one of the most unique features it offers,” he said.
To start a hangout, click the “welcome” button on the home page. It will prompt you to start a hangout and invite individuals or entire circles.
Huddles: Huddles are group conversations. Like group texting, but without the fees from a wireless carrier. “A lot of communication takes place in texts,” Wright said. “These social networks want a piece of that.” Planning Thursday night’s potluck just got a lot simpler.
Why you should try it: “Google has tried to make a move in the social networking field, and to date, this has been the most successful,” Wright said. “Plus it is stripped down, lightweight and easy to use. It’s design and interface is smarter.”
Wright said while some people view Google+ as just another social network, many see it as a refreshing change since it is more private to use. “There is no more sidestepping awkward acquaintances. Plus, it keeps separate worlds from colliding.”
