Google has added a new G+ feature today that some will love. The feature is called 'Live Q&A,' and it's exactly what you think it is: a way to answer questions live during a Google Plus broadcast. Here's a closer look.
Answering Questions Live
Picture this: you're in the middle of your webcam broadcast when suddenly a small screen pops up in front of you. The screen is filled with questions from viewers. You can sort through those questions as you talk, and choose a few of them to answer. For every answer, you can then cross that question off as complete.
This is how Google's new Live Q&A will work, and it's one great way to show viewers that you are paying attention. Not only can you answer questions as they roll in, but viewers can also vote on the questions that are asked. So, if a question becomes popular, I'm guessing that you'll have to answer it! This new feature has tons of possibilities for video broadcasters and companies alike.
The Marketing Potential
I can think of few better ways to ward off bad PR than to hold a Google Plus press conference. Viewers have to be logged in to a Google Plus account in order to ask questions, and your PR person can handle those questions as they roll in. Not a bad idea, right? Or, how about a new product launch?
If your company just introduced a new product, you might want to go on Google Plus to answer questions about that product. You can even create a video and answer some live questions if you just want to establish yourself as an expert in your field - there are so many options here. But, first, let's look at how it all works.
Setting Up Your Q&A Session
First, you have to log into Google Plus. So, you'll need an account (not hard to set up). Next, you will have to start a hangout, and invite people to join in your fun. After that, just set up your webcam and you're ready to go. When tested, the Google Plus Q&A feature worked rather well, and it all went off without a hitch.
So far, Google has managed to attract plenty of famous people to Hangouts, and this new feature is sure to attract more of those sorts - but you don't need to be famous in order to start up a conversation. All you really need is an opinion, and a few people that are willing to watch you.
More Coming Soon
Google has told press that the company is working on adding more broadcasting features to the Google Plus site. What can you expect to see in the future? Plenty of great Google broadcasting things that are more news room and less casual chat.
Could it be true? Is Google finally starting to carve out a social media niche? It's really starting to look that way. Do you use G+? Will you check out the Q&A feature?
Image from Mat Hampel via Flickr Creative Commons