Google Profiles have been around for a few years now but many people don't understand what they are and why they should create one. Here's how Google defines Profiles: "Your profile is the way you present yourself on Google products and across the web. With your profile, you can manage the information that people see--such as your bio, contact details, and links to other sites about you or created by you."
1. Google Profiles were designed so that you could better manage your online identity and control how you turned up in Search. Rather than let the broader Web determine how you're seen in Search results, Google Profiles give you the option to control your information, pictures, contact information and any URL's you own. Think of it as an abbreviated LinkedIn Profile but with broader implications.
2. Google Profiles are integrated with Google+. Google Profiles were originally integrated with Google Buzz but essentially, Buzz bombed. Now Google+ uses your Google Profile to complete, well your Profile. From there you can build out your network of contacts and explore other functionality offered by Google +.
Note, Google+ is still in demo but email me if you'd like an invitation.
3.Google Profiles boost your SEO. Yes, it would make sense that Google ranks a Google Profile higher than other online vehicles. Case in point, my Google Profile usually appears at the top or near the top of my own name search. Profiles also factor in any URL's you provide so if you're blogging, Tweeting, Facebooking, Linking and have a website, you can publish those URL's in your Profile.
Search for my name and see what bubbles up:
Good idea? If you're actively living your life online, then I strongly recommend setting up a Google Profile. It's simple! Login to Google and set up a Profile today.