An events function is now available on Google+ which brings it into line with Facebook and LinkedIn which have had this feature for some time. You can set up an Event from the new Events tab. As well as the basic details of when, where and who’s invited, there are some innovative features.
A big plus is that you can invite guests even if they’re not on Google+. After you’ve created an it’s immediately added to your Google Calendar.
Those invited view your Event on a dedicated page where they can check to see if they’re available using a ‘check availability’ button which launches a pop-up displaying events in their Google Calendar around the time of the event. If there’s a conflict, the Events function lets you know. The new Events Page can be themed with ‘cinemagraphic themes’ which are a big gimmicky but look great – think super-charged high res animated gifs.
The most innovative feature which is unique to Google+ is ‘Party Mode’. This enables attendees to upload photos directly to an Events page as the event is happening. A great way to get people involved and to create buzz at an event. A slideshow is displayed live for those that can’t make it and remains in place for those that want to view photos after the event.
Here’s the #wearesocialclub Summer Special Events page.
You can learn more about Google+ at my regular Google+ workshops. Next one is Wednesday 18 July – booking and info here.