As Google+ has grown substantially in the social-sphere since it’s original launch, it still hasn’t hit the bullseye for social networking. However, Google+ Hangouts may be one of the network’s saving graces. Brands are using Google+ Hangouts to network with customers, collaborate with staff, and now, with Google+ Hangouts On Air, it has the potential to change the way of the webinar.
Let’s look at Google+ Hangouts first, then we’ll dive into the effect Google+ Hangouts On Air may have on webinars.
Brands have been finding that through using Google+ Hangouts, they have the opportunity to network with their audience virtually, similar to how they would at live events. It allows for open conversation and focused Q&A sessions that reaffirm a company’s branding, allowing for more humanized brands to surface. People want relationships with the companies they are doing business with; automation and impersonal communication is becoming more outdated. We’ve already begun seeing a trend in customer service turning to platforms like Google+ to reach customers, and it’s my opinion that Google+ Hangouts has the opportunity to take them to a whole new level.
Businesses are even turning to Google+ Hangouts for internal development purposes. Many companies separated by physical location spend time, money, and other resources on traveling and other expensive video-conferencing platforms. Yet, Google+ Hangouts is a great alternative to fee-based platforms like GoToMeeting. The companies that are finding new technologies to connect with their team are successfully cutting costs and improving team morale.
Google+ offers an array of tools that have been extremely helpful to companies using the platform for meetings. Features like screensharing are hugely beneficial when discussing presentations, projects, or other tools that need visual aides. Virtual trainings have turned to Google+ Hangouts to enhance audience interaction. And this is where Google+ Hangouts On Air sweeps the webinar world’s feet out from under it.
Google+ Hangouts On Air gives webinars a new angle. Instead of the traditional webinar with slides and screensharing, these mock a presentation style with a more live feeling. This could be great for business training or presentations as well as traditional instruction and hosting guest speakers.
There is a lot of potential with the video tool Google+ has rolled out and continues to expand upon. How are you using it?
