Why Google+ Is Important For Locals

It appears that Google is now telling searchers how many people in their local area have +1ed a particular piece of content.

This could be an indicator that Google+ will become ever more important for local businesses in South Central Pennsylvania. But the kicker is, in order for Google to see that information, you’ll have to be logged into your Google account. That’s what Google is actually hoping for.

In order for Google to know where you are they’ll have to monitor that in one of two ways – your IP address and your Google account information. My bet is they’re hoping you’ll sign up for a Google account so they can show you specific targeted information in your searches based on your account information data (such as location) and your search query history. They’re already doing this anyway based on your IP address so don’t think you’ll be gaining anything by not having a Google account.

I think it’s clever. But there is a drawback. My business’s service area extends beyond my specific geographic location. Google has me in York Springs, Pa. But how many people in York Springs are going to +1 any content? But if Google had me listed in Adams County, Pa. or South Central Pennsylvania, then that information might be more apt to be catalogued.

Still, if you do business in Harrisburg, that could very well be a great metric for your business. Perform a search and see how many people in Harrisburg have +1ed your content.

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