So we had our first Google Hangout and as expected it was rather surreal with everyone wondering what might happen.
Invited: 20
Responded: 5
Attending: 4
Actual: 1
I think that is rather indicative about all marking… you can expect a percentage success rate in the low part of 10%. It’s pretty dire. So here’s what happened.
- TuesdayGoogle launches Events on their Google+ system… I set up an event inviting people to experience a Google Hangout and make the subject Google Hangouts for the following Tuesday.
- ThursdayI market things a bit, Tweet, Facebook and generally push it – this is when most people responded. Response came in the form of email, Google+ notifications and Twitter – the lesson here is let people respond how they want to – at least until you’ve reach capacity.
- FridayI followed up a few people who might come, I also try to open things out allowing my invitees to invite their connections.
- SaturdayA bit more marketing
- MondayI sent out my reminders the event is tomorrow!
- TuesdayA final push to persuade last minuters that if they are around it would be great to have them on board.
The Hangout/Event
Luckily the only person to ‘come’ had already experienced Google Hangouts and was relatively used to the experience, actually I was depending on his sharing his experience to everyone else if they had come.
Hangouts do require you to step through a few hurdles – you need to download the ‘plugin/software’ and you of course need a webcam and speakers or headset and microphone. I just used my laptop, hands free it has the speakers and mic all built in.
Justin Wheeler – http://www.justinwheeler.net/ – and I are old friends and we had a great chat, talking about Google, Google+ and Hangouts, the time was well spent.
What was learned
Like most things Planning is essential, and while I probably did not do enough, the planning was adequate given the circumstantial. But the formula for success is going to be similar to other forms of advertising. You tell people about it and a certain number will respond.
Short list:
- Be inclusive, I limited my invite list to people I knew well – it would probably pay to be more daring and invite people I don’t know so well
- Plan the Hangout – you need to have a road map for the subject matter to keep it rolling
- Plan for 30 minutes max – don’t take up peoples valuable time
- Be regular – do it again and make it a set time but different subject
- Focus on your audience – build up some regulars and then let others join in
- Follow up – write about the experience afterwards
- Practice may well make perfect.
Conclusion
Will I do it again – I have to… be ready I am now planning a whole schedule of events based on Google Hangouts and how they can help your business.
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