Google places has recently transformed; bettered itself if you like. As with most changes however, there can be a few slight hiccups. In Google’s case, the new look Google Places now also automatically creates a Google Plus account for your business … and if you already have one, and have worked on that account, you can’t merge the two – which is a little frustrating.
However, if you are a business that is yet to set up a Google Plus account, this does all the work for you.
The question on many people’s lips – should you keep the old Google+ which has all your circles and posts, or do you have to start all over again?
The short answer is to keep both and maintain one of them, with the other pointing to the other one. Let us explain …
Google Plus Linked to Google Places is Local
The Google Plus account connected to your Google Places is more of a local listing – and will show predominantly in the local searches.
For instance, if you are an audio production company based on the Gold Coast, when someone on the Gold Coast (Google picks up the IP of your computer, which helps them identify your location) or if someone types in “Audio Production Gold Coast” you have a good chance of coming up in the top listings – providing you have a verified listing on Google Places. You will also further better your chances and optimise your listing, by setting up your Google Plus linked to your Google Places.
National Google Plus Accounts
National companies, who already have a Google Plus account it is in your best interest to keep both accounts. Dress up your Google Plus account linked to your Google Places with a company profile, contact information, cover photo and profile picture, but then put a post directing your customers to your national Google Plus account – which will be more likely to show up in searches all over the country.
Unique URLs
With both accounts you can get a unique url, for instance +google.com.au/corporatesoundAustralia, however, on the Google Plus linked to your Google places you may not be able to choose, Google may pre-approve a URL based on your location (though this is not always the case)
Artwork Dimensions
Branding your Google Plus account just looks so much more professional than keeping it with the generic theme as applied by Google; plus by branding your Google+ page, you will more likely be followed by other people, which will help optimise your listing and get you higher in the rankings. To brand your Google Plus account you will need a profile pic and a cover pic. The dimensions are as follows:
Profile Picture
Square – at least 250 pixels x 250 pixels
Cover Picture
- Recommended size: 1080 x 608
- Minimum size: 480 x 270
- Maximum size: 2120 x 1192
