When using Google to search for a local restaurant or a site to help with algebra homework, would you like Google to give special emphasis to sites recommended by people you know and trust? For example, if your sister-in-law recently visited and loved the new Chinese restaurant that just opened downtown, or if I had recommended a new series of algebra how-to videos?
While this might sound too good to be true, it’s not. Google has actually been doing this for awhile. Let me explain how YOU can take advantage of the power of the people you know and trust to improve your Google searches.
Step One: You must have a Google account, and be signed in when you do your searches. If you do not yet have a free Google account, you can get one here.
Step Two: Fill out the Connected Accounts page in your Google account with your social media accounts at places like Twitter and Facebook.
Step Three: To get my website recommendations in your Google search results, connect with me using one of the connected accounts you told Google about in Step Two. For example: friend me on Twitter, like Surfnetkids on Facebook, subscribe on FriendFeed or add me to a circle at Google+.
Results: One day (I have no idea how long it will take!) after adding me to your social network, you will start seeing my recommendations with a tiny picture of me in your search results. It will look something like this:
I would love your feedback on this post. Was it helpful? Are you going to try it out? Are you already seeing Social Connections in your search results? If anything is not clear, or if you are able to see my recommendations when you Google search for “preschool songs” please let me know by posting a comment here.
I linked a couple of accounts, see what happens.