Google’s latest Penguin update, which changed the algorithms used to determine the rankings of websites on Google’s search listings, placed a greater emphasis on authorship and visibility. One way to increase search engine optimization is to post content on your Google+ account, and encourage readers to comment and share the post. Here are 5 key tactics for writing an effective Google+ post which can increase your online presence, attract a loyal customer base, and boost business.

1. Make Use of Images

The last update of Google+ allowed users to incorporate large images which can stretch across the screen, particularly effective if you have a product you want to promote and show off. An image can speak louder than words and will often be the first thing that your readers will notice when you write a new Google+ post. Choose an image that is colorful, eye-catching and shows your product in the best light, and write a brief and interesting caption to go alongside it. You can link images from a number of different websites, including Tumblr, StumbleUpon, Instagram, and Flickr.

2. Create an Eye-Catching Headline

Make your headline unique and specific to the rest of the content within the Google+ post. Alliteration is a great way to attract readers, such as in the headline, “Deals and Discounts on Designer Dresses”. Your headline should be short, and should contain no more than 10 words. Refer to the product or service that you are trying to promote and use the correct punctuation at all times. Capitalize the name of your brand or company, and use capitals to emphasize a key word or phrase.

3. Write a Google+ Post for Your Audience

Know your audience well and create fresh and engaging content that will attract new readers. For example, if you specialize in graphic design, use key words and phrases that your audience will understand, and don’t dumb down any content. The first sentence of the main body of text should make your audience want to read on, so try and summarize the rest of the article in the first line. A good opening line will make your audience want to read on, and can lead to more shares and comments. You can even encourage readers to comment on your article by posing a question and asking your audience to give their opinions after they have read your article. Sentences like, “So, what do you think?” or “Do you agree?” can provoke discussion and debate and get your Google+ post noticed by more people. Also consider incorporating a recent news story into your Google+ post which is relevant to the services and goods that you are trying to sell. For example, if you run a clothing website, post a photo of a famous celebrity wearing clothing similar to what you sell, such as a famous actress wearing a particular type of dress at a red carpet event.

4. Write Original and Fresh Content

In order to attract new readers, you will need to conceive a well-written Google+ post with new and fresh content. Perhaps conduct some original research or create an article which incorporates a list, such as “Top 10 reasons to dry-clean clothes” if you run a dry cleaning business. Incorporate formatting into the text to make it look more interesting, such as emboldening key words or using italics to convey a particular point. Bullet points are also extremely effective as they will allow you to list the benefits of a particular product in a clear and concise way. Finally, always use language that is easy-to-read so you can engage a large audience, and make sure you proof-read your content for spelling and punctuation mistakes. Don’t worry if you do make a mistake. Google+ allows you to edit posts at any time.

5. Make the Most Out of Google+ Circles

Google+ Circles allows your customer base to share content with their friends, which can be an effective promotional tool in getting your brand or company noticed by a wider audience. When content is shared in a Google+ Circle, it will either be made public, or shared among friends and family members only. You will need to create content which will provoke debate and will be shared by your readers so do your research and make your language engaging and exciting. Use popular key words and phrases in the body of the article which are specific to any goods and services that you offer.

Author Bio:

Derek Fraser is an online manager for Havahart Traps. He likes blogging about online strategies that are related to SEO, Content, PPC & Lead generation.