Google is becoming increasingly omnipotent on the internet, being the dominant search engine, a popular email provider, and owner of YouTube. Google has the majority of the market share when it comes to search, which is why it's more than just a social network if you are a business.

Creating a Google+ page for your business is important for your visibility across the web. Google's integration with other platforms make it possible for your company to get out there through many different sources. It can help you build a loyal fan base, drive new business, and connect with your customers.

Your Google+ page is your home on Google. Your page, along with your most recent posts, is eligible to show on the right-hand side of Google search results. The more content you post, the stronger your presence can be on Google.com. Google calls it “a free and easy way to find and connect with your people, wherever you are.”

Creating your Google+ page

• go to your Gmail or Google Apps for Work account and click on the Google+ icon on the top right
• create your personal account or log in
• click on the left top banner and choose the pages option

You will be asked to choose a category that fits with what your company does. Depending on the main category you select, you will be presented with subcategories that go into greater detail. Ensure you choose the correct and relevant categories for your business, as this significantly improves the relevance of your business in searches.

In the about section of your profile you can click edit and insert basic information such as the name of your company, contact information, and an external website. This complements your existing website by giving your business a public identity and presence on Google.

The customisation begins with adding your profile and cover photo. You hover over the pictures to edit and upload. Ensure these are representative of your brand, promotional photographs of products can work well here if applicable. This helps to highlight the best of what you can offer. When you update your introduction to your page, keep in mind important keywords related to your business. You can add links to your other social networks such as Facebook and Twitter, and also other pages that may be related to your business.

You can also find people or companies to follow and connect with on your homepage by clicking. Your followers can use the +1 button to endorse your posts and show their support. This is useful as customers can see where your recommendations have come from, and shares or +1s influence your search rankings. They can +1 your page, as well as specific content that you share. Make sure you share and +1 others' content as well, as every article you share creates a link back to your site.

Google+ Local Pages

Make sure you create a Google+ local page (formally Places). They are indexed into search results and make it easy for customers to find you using Google search and maps. Your customers can show their appreciation for your service using the reviews feature. The more reviews and ratings your company has, the higher it will appear in the search listings. This is a great way for people to share their thoughts and opinions, and can help in driving new business.

If your business has multiple locations you will need to set up Google+ accounts for each of these using individual email addresses.

If you have a business and haven't got a Google+ account set up, then get involved. Stay active on your account and ensure you are following the right people and sharing relevant things. This will get you noticed and puts you in touch with the right people. It's an increasingly popular social network and an excellent way to get your product out there in as many ways as possible. Google is an online giant, and it's integration with so many platforms allows for a much higher visibility on the web.