This 1-minute video from Google shows its new real-time search feature announced last week. This is big – even for B2B marketers!  Now, ”tweets” from social networking site Twitter will show up in search results as conversation bubbles.  Here’s the kicker. Not only will they show up, they will show up ABOVE traditional search results.

This change on Google’s part is essentially forcing B2B companies to make a choice – use these social mediums or lose their page rank.

I can’t help but wonder how this will affect the transparent nature of Twitter, since companies now have to think of their tweets in terms of keywords. This reminds me of the 1990s, when corporations were forced (also by Google) to consider their web site as way more than an information library. They needed to incorporate SEO tactics or lose their competitive edge.  Now, social media will also have to be a part of companies’ marketing mix. Companies that don’t “tweet” could easily find themselves in a situation where buyers find their competitors instead of them.

http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=WRkYmx4A9Do

Related posts:

1. Google on the ropes? I don’t think so…
2. Twitter me this!
3. What came first, the Budget or the Plan?
4. Take Me Out to the Blog Game, Part I
5. What’s in Your Marketing Fall Line-up?

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About the author:

Chris Henneghan is one of Schubert’s longest-standing employees, starting with the agency in 1987. She now serves as the Social Media & Public Relations and Client Services Director. Chris is a Notre Dame grad and enjoys tennis, golf, hiking, and reading.

Follow Chris on Twitter: @chrishenneghan