Google recently made waves in the internet world with the much anticipated launch of its new +1 (Plus One) button. Already hailed by many as an imitation of the Facebook Like button, it is essentially a feature that allows users to endorse the results and advertisements that appear on the search page. Whether or not Google’s button can match the impact of Facebook’s Like is something we can debate for days, but either way you look at it, this update is huge. Read on to find out how it could impact your online marketing efforts.

Inside Google +1

A while back, technology circles were hyped about a speculated social offering being concocted behind the scenes by the search company. Well, from the looks of it, Google +1 appears to be what we were waiting on. Not necessarily what some of us were expecting, but the update definitely has a social element to it. Not only does it let people “like” (for a lack of better terminology) search listings, but also see how many of their connections have endorsed the same results. For now, users can view the +1 actions of their connections in Gmail and Google Chat. Word is going around that Google could update the feature to include connections from Twitter and other social networks in the future.  

While it may not sound like much, Google +1 could actually have a major impact from a marketing standpoint. Just think – when internet searchers see that one or multiple people have approved of your page, they will be far more likely to click the link and pay you a visit. Why wouldn’t they? The page is already somehow relevant to what they’re looking for, and the fact that it is endorsed by others only makes it more attractive. In short, Google +1 can potentially help you get more traffic from general users, as well as those you are connected with through your Google accounts.

Is it a Game Changer?

It seems like we’ve been talking about the Google +1 button forever, especially since rumors were running wild before the official launch, but it is important to keep in mind that this is a very new offering. Right now, it is far too early to tell if it will be something marketers can truly rely on to generate traffic and improve business performance. In the end, its longevity will ultimately be determined by the user base, the people who do all the searching online. If people use the feature for what it was intended for, it will probably have an impact on several fronts. If people ignore it, then it won’t be worthy of your time. Since Google +1 is designed for users, its value is pretty much as simple as that.

Although the future isn’t certain, Google +1 is here and already has plans of enhancements in its sights. According to reports, Google is planning on making it more like the Facebook Like button by allowing users to embed the function on their website. If you consider yourself an opportunistic marketer, you will want to keep up with the developments to learn more about how you can benefit from this potentially revolutionary feature.