Recently, Google notified users that custom URLs are available. Google is one of the last to offer this option.
So, instead of something like this: https://plus.google.com/u/0/107464750125536071744/posts
You can now have something like this: https://plus.google.com/+JimDevitt/posts.
If you meet the criteria, you should see a notification on your Google+ page or profile. They will display the approved custom options. Custom? To me, it’s not custom if they provide you with a few selections and you have to pick one. They will let you add a few letters or numbers to make it unique, but you can’t develop your own from scratch.
For most of us, it won’t be a big deal. Mine came in with +JimDevitt which is what I use on other sites anyway. But, it you have some unique URL that you use in Facebook or Twitter such as “Bestauthorever” you probably won’t have that for Google+.
In order to qualify for the custom URL, you need to have three things in place:
1. Ten or more followers.
2. Your account needs to be at least 30 days old.
3. You must have a profile photo.
If you qualify, they will give you a list of options. Just select one and click the box to agree to Terms of Service.
WAIT! Terms of Service? There’s always a catch, isn’t there? Here’s what you need to know.
- They reserve the right to take it away without notice for any reason.
- They are free, but they might charge a fee for them in the future.
WHAT? Did I just read that correctly? Yep. They might charge for them in the future. Should we be concerned? I don’t think so. There would be a tremendous backlash if they ever tried to charge and if so, I’ll just go back to using https://plus.google.com/u/0/107464750125536071744/posts.
Thanks, Jim. I had no idea. Even with the limits it’s still an improvement.
Thanks, Jim! Now if I could only do it without giving them my cell phone number, it could work.
I know. I did it, but wasn’t happy about it. And not all folks have cell phones.
I agree with Lori. I hate the cellphone nag that appears on so many sites.
It’s unfortunate that Google doesn’t allow complete customization like bitly.
Thanks for this information, Jim.
I’m with Lori and Kathy. I received an invitation, and they wanted my cell phone number, which may or may not be cool. My cell is associated with a personal gmail account, and not sure I can associate it with both without linking gmail accounts (which I don’t want to do). It’s an interesting option, however, if this is your primary gmail account.
Thanks for the tip.