Google Hangouts – A Win-Win For Everyone, And How They Can Help Your Business

Many of you may be asking the question “Exactly what is Google Hangouts and why do I care?” I mean don’t we all have too much to deal with as it is?

Then there’s Google. We seem to have a love/hate relationship with the big G. They’re constantly making our lives as marketers hell by continually shifting their search algorithm, banning our sites or making their ad platforms so incredibly frustrating.

On the other hand, they still own some 67% of the search market, and ranking on page one of Google is tantamount to winning the lottery in some markets.

So when they come out with software that really rocks, it makes us forget past transgressions and want the t-shirt all over again.

Such is the case with Google Hangouts.

So what are Google Hangouts? 

In a nutshell a Hangout is a video chat that you can stream live with up to nine other people, and many more can watch the live event. However, Google Hangouts are much more that merely a video chat.

Not only can others watch live on your Google+ page or your YouTube channel, Google+ records the entire affair and delivers you a YouTube link when all is said and done. You are free to then use this video as you would any other YouTube video.

The possibilities for marketers and small business are enormous. Let’s look at some of the ways you can use Google Hangouts in your business.

7 Ways to use Google Hangouts In Your Business

google hangouts

1.     A webinar alternative – If either you find the current offerings in webinar software either A) too expensive or clunky to use, or B) you don’t do enough of them to justify the cost and lack of reliability, then Google Hangouts is made for you! The ability to record, stream live and integrate social media within your Google, for FREE, makes this a very attractive option.

2.   Live streaming media – Many small businesses are utilizing Google Hangouts to stream a regular weekly or monthly “TV” show.

3.   Interviews – A perfect medium for conducting interviews on the fly. Scheduling time with someone just got a whole lot easier!

4.   Meetings & Conferences – Conducting employee or customer meetings, as well as broadcasting live from a conference is a snap with Google Hangouts. The app works for both Apple and Android operating systems, and there is a desktop app as well.

5.    Product launches – Using a Google Hangout to create a buzz around your latest product launch is easier to accomplish. That along with the ability to interact personally with viewers and answer questions makes this a more “human” approach than the typical 3-4 pre-shot video series.

6.   Customer hangouts – Google Hangouts can also be used for customer service, keeping your desire to deliver top-notch support directly available to those who purchase your products. This goes a very long way towards building trust, reducing refund rates, promoting back-end sales, and creating positive word of mouth about your business.

7.    Product demonstrations – A live demo of your product or service is extremely valuable social proof that can help to erode any doubts potential buyers may have. It can also be a great tool to use as an affiliate webinar, promoting live with affiliates who have the ability to drive significant traffic your way.

So what is this going to cost me?

That’s one of the more exciting parts. It’s totally free! If you have a Google+ account, you’re already in. You’ll need to have your YouTube account ready to go as well, and perhaps spend a bit of time optimizing and customizing your YouTube Channel page, especially if you have a brand, but otherwise that’s it.

Google Hangouts Summary

Google Hangouts are a wonderful, easy to use solution for utilizing live web media along with the reach and power of YouTube. Don’t pass on this powerful new too and if you are new to this tool, watch out for my coming training on how to do your first Hangout and how to improve your performance after every one of your Google Hangouts.