PRs ponder: how will Google+ stand up against the social media heavyweights?

PRs ponder: how will Google+ stand up against the social media heavyweights?

Matt Bazley

Matt Bazley

Google+ is most certainly the buzz of the Firefly office and, as usual, has us all delving in to see where its PR potential lies. Though many of its core characteristics and features are unfortunately yesterday’s news to social media enthusiasts, some of its more developed and business-tailored features look set to be something we’ll want to shout about to our clients.

But how will it stand up against the other already highly successful social media platforms? Michael Nardis, Head of YouGov Investment Products, argues that “Google+ is tracing a path similar to Facebook's initial growth,” supported by study figures that forecast 22% of US web-using adults will activate a Google+ account within the next year. This is predicted to surpass Twitter by this point and so is a force not to be taken lightly.

In the meantime, a bigger debate has arisen around how people will use Google+ versus other social media platforms already in place. LinkedIn, Twitter and Facebook have each found their groove, but where will Google+ fit in amongst the top players? One of the more discerning arguments that has cropped up is how the media shapes society’s uptake of social media.

Fearful of tagged photos, "NSFW" comments and globally viewable tweets, as well as being hyper-aware of tone (e.g. LinkedIn professionalism bordering on the bland), social media consumers have become quite adaptable and aware of online etiquette. Armed with this knowledge and understanding (and scepticism), we anticipate Google+ will invite a much bolder and more open online community - a place where users could start afresh.

It will be intriguing to see how Google+ will unfold from a social and public relations perspective, and where social media understanding amongst users has greatly improved through trial-and-error. Thanks to the media, we believe this should instil confidence in online consumers, spring-boarding a hugely creative, sociable and intelligible online community. We’re already signed up...are you?

Share this story:

Read more from the blog

Blog

Is AI compromising our curiosity?

As AI becomes increasingly prominent in our lives, it is time for comms professionals to consider the impact on creativity and curiosity. ...Read more

Selina Jardim
Selina Jardim
Technology

Cracking the communication code in technology

Often, when communicating about technology, conversations can become quite technical. How can brands cut through the noise and communicate effectively? ...Read more

Sameer Jama
Sameer Jama
Blog

How Barbie’s reputational overhaul painted the world pink

Barbie's reputation hasn't always been positive, but this year's Barbie film has changed the tides. What can this teach us about reputation shaping? ...Read more

Alexandra Kourakis
Alexandra Kourakis

Add a comment

This site uses Akismet to reduce spam. Learn how your comment data is processed.

Is it time to shape your reputation?

We operate in London, Paris and Munich, and have a network of like-minded partners across the globe.

Get in touch

Sign up to Spark, our newsletter

Receive thought pieces from our leadership team, views on the news, tool of the month and light relief for comms folk

You can unsubscribe at any time, please read our privacy policy for more information