Google+ has now surpassed Twitter as the world’s 2nd largest social media networking site.  Part of what makes them such a great site is Google+ Hangouts, where users can meet up and chat about a specific topic or just “hangout.”  Since Hangouts are essentially web-based video and text conference rooms, it is no longer necessary to fly in business members from around the world for meetings, nor do you have to exclude your international friends from a group discussion.  Plus it’s FREE!  Thanks Google+!

You can even save your Hangout sessions and have it set-up to auto-post them to YouTube afterwards.  This is helpful to people who aren’t able to make it, or, as is our case, in such a different time zone that in order to make it you have to wake up 2-3 hours early than you normally would.

Another interesting aspect of Google+’s Hangouts is what some companies have been using them for.  For instance The U.S. Small Business Administration (SBA) is having Q & A sessions on topics from “How a Mentor Can Help Your Business” to “Getting Started with Social Media” using Hangouts.

The SBA is devoted to helping small businesses succeed and is a valuable resource for any sized business.  They use the Hangouts to reach wider audiences, especially those heavily involved in social media marketing. These forums are set-up to help small businesses get the information they need quickly and easily.

Check out the SBA “Google+ Page” and previous Hangouts to see if you or your company could find some useful hints and tips on ways to make your small business even more successful!

While you’re at it, don’t forget to check out AS Design’s Google+ Page and previous Hangout sessions too!

Learn more about Google Hangouts >>