Google launched people cards, in India
In a limited launch, Google is testing virtual business cards in search results that show up when a person’s name is searched for.
Now rolling out in India, Google’s new ‘people cards’ let individuals highlight themselves in search results like never before.
Gaining a presence in search results as an individual can prove to be challenging, especially for those who aren’t famous or share the same name with many other people.
These India-first cards are similar to the knowledge panels that show up every time you make a google search for a celebrity. Now, with this feature, those panels will be extended to the average Indian citizen, allowing other people to access their details through a simple Google search. Needless to say, Google is trying to get into that LinkedIn territory, by giving you the ability to display your professional prowess to everyone who searches your name.
Google aims to address these challenges with people cards:
“Today, we are solving these challenges with a new feature called people cards. It’s like a virtual visiting card, where you can highlight your existing website or social profiles you want people to visit, plus other information about yourself that you want others to know.”
People cards are designed for business professionals, performers, influencers, entrepreneurs, job hunters, freelancers, or anyone looking to grow their presence online.
A people card can include a website link, links to social profiles, and any other information you want people to know about you. Google is making sure that these cards are secure, and has taken some critical steps to close loopholes that can put user security in jeopardy.
To ensure that only legitimate people make a card, google will allow only one card per account and will require your phone number for the authentication process. Moreover, if someone feels that a card is fake or impersonated then they can give google their feedback. You can also delete or update your google card anytime.
‘People cards’ have already been rolled out in India for all mobile phone users.
How to Create a People Card:
Those who are able to create their own people card can do so by either searching their name, or entering the query “add me to Search.”
Before you do that, make sure you’re signed into the Google account which contains the information you wish to add.
After entering “add me to Search” click on the prompt that appears.
From there you’ll be able to add the following details to your people card:
- The image from your Google account
- A description of yourself
- A website link
- Links to social profiles
- Phone number
- Email address
You can decide how much of the above information you want to include in your people card.
Although, as Google notes: “The more information you provide, the easier it is for people to find you.”
People are not required to display their phone number, but Google does require it for authentication purposes. Google aims to ensure people cards contain reliable information by implementing strict quality control measures.
Not located in India?
People located outside of India have managed to set up their own people card through the use of a VPN using mobile version of Google.
There was no mention in Google’s announcement of when, or if, this feature will make its way stateside.
