Chapter 1. Joining Plus and What to Do First

Ever wish you could completely start over? Begin an entirely new online life? Well, as far as social media goes, that time is now.

And the time could not be better! Everything from interaction with your friends, to communications with coworkers and clients, professional contacts and development, meeting those who share your hobbies, and so much more now depends on social networking. Google+ is the fastest growing and, arguably, the easiest to learn.

If you're already using Facebook, for example, then one of the big attractions of Plus is starting out fresh. Creating your friends lists in a controllable manner, making online interaction more manageable, and enjoying the power of a completely new software. All free, by the way.

Google+ or (as most of us seem to be calling it) Google Plus gives us all of the above and more.

This chapter introduces that excitement and shows how to join Plus. It also gives you the kind of painless initial setup that guarantees a successful and fun-filled experience for years to come.

So let's:

  • Learn what Google Plus is and does
  • Take a look at the advantages of Plus
  • See how to join
  • Discuss privacy concerns
  • Set up our profiles
  • And above all, learn just why Google+ is the place to be!

We begin with just exactly what Google Plus is.