Why You Should Be Using Google Alerts
If you’re not using Google Alerts, you’re making a big mistake. It’s not about being ego-driven, it’s about knowing what’s being said online about you, issues you deal with, or aspects of who you are. It’s almost like a free, personal PR service. It’s easy to set up, and this is the place to start. Here’s the secrets to making them work for you:
Start with your name and the name of your organization, books you’ve written, projects you’ve led, initiatives you’ve started, products you’re involved in, etc… Then simply create the alert, and you’ll be notified via email whenever that word or words come up online. Google Alerts have notified me of sites that were downloading my books illegally, comments people said about me or family members, and news about my projects and clients. They allowed me to respond, correct errors, and know what people are thinking. In many cases, it alerts me to international media coverage about our work at Cooke Media Group.
In today’s digital, hyper-connected world, you need to know what perceptions, attitudes, and ideas people have about you, your organization, and your projects. Set up a list of Google Alerts today. You won’t be sorry.
Anyone out there had a good experience with alerts? If so, please share any additional ideas.
Phil Cooke, PhD. has been called “one of the most innovative communicators of our generation.” As a media producer, writer, speaker, and consultant, his client list includes major film studios and TV networks as well as major Christian organizations like Voice of the Martyrs, The Museum of the Bible, The Salvation Army, and others. He’s also coached and consulted with many of the most influential churches and nonprofit organizations in the world, helping them use media to tell their story. You can hear his podcast here.
