This document provides 5 tips for using Google+ Hangouts on Air for businesses:
1. Plan Hangouts 6 to 8 weeks in advance to build an audience of 100 or more through marketing.
2. Don't rely solely on RSVP functionality; use tools like Eventbrite to collect leads for follow up and analytics.
3. Use adequate lighting and an external microphone to ensure good video and audio quality.
4. Connect via Ethernet instead of WiFi to avoid connection issues during live events.
5. Start with a private Hangout to test connections before enabling the public live stream.
2. Google+ Hangouts & Your Biz
Google+ Hangouts are being
used by big to small brands to
easily create video content and
real-time engagement
The content is authentic, low-
cost and requires minimal effort
to produce
Minimal Requirements:
Google+ Page for your business
aYouTube account to link your
account to
Computer with camera & mic
#hangoutsonair
3. Market
event via
email,
web and
social
Find and
confirm
interviewee
Draft copy
and get it
approved
Prep
interviewee
Host event Post-event
marketing
&
Recap
Report w/
Analytics
6 to 8 weeks
Tip #1: Plan 6 to 8 weeks out
Getting an audience of 100 or more requires lead-time,
resources, content and a marketing strategy
#hangoutsonair
4. Tip #2: Don’t Rely on RSVP Functionality
If you want to follow-up with
your leads they need to be in
your database.
Use a tool like eventbrite,
Marketo or Eloqua to get
people to RSVP to the event ,
automate email reminders and
get access to campaign
analytics
5. Tip #3: Use a Mic & Lighting
Worse thing that you can do in
a video conference is not
enough light or have a really
bright background which
makes you dark
Build and test a setup that
lights your face appropriately
and have an external USB mic
#hangoutsonair
6. Tip #4: Be connected via Ethernet
Last thing you want is
awkward silence when you
or your guest panelists lose
(or have a bad) wi-fi
connection.
Ethernet is recommended
and better for any type of
video conferencing
including screen sharing
Photos from Flickr FreedoomHouseDC and pfly
#hangoutsonair
7. Tip #5: Create a Private Hangout 1st
Only invite panelists and
pre-screened members of
the community
Once you start the
Hangout, enable it to go
ON AIR for the public to
view
Photos from Flickr Richard Holt
#hangoutsonair
8. Want more Hangout tips?
Find Randy Ksar on Google+
or
Tweet @djksar #hangoutsonair