introducing . google friend connect

Google Friend Connect is a feature that allows bloggers to engage even more with their readers (and vice versa). As you can see, I’ve added it to my site, in the sidebar. As a reader, you can simply:
. sign in with your Google, Yahoo, AIM or OpenID account
. join my site
. sign in and out
. see pictures of other site members
. see pictures of their friends
. explore other members’ profiles
. invite other people to join my site
. and, interact with other visitors by making friends, sharing media, posting comments, etc

Below is a brief YouTube video overview of the feature:

Generally speaking, I’m very wary of new applications and features. I like to keep my blog easy to use and relevant to my readers. Not to mention, apps can be riddled with bugs. There are thousands to choose from, but selecting the ones that will enrich your blog’s experience is paramount.

If you’re a blogger and you’re interested in adding Google Friend Connect to your blog, a few things to consider:
. there are a few more social applications that you can choose from – one of which is Facebook Connect. Find out what will work best with the content of your blog and your target market.
. there are a few ‘add on’ gadgets that you can also add to your blog such as wall gadget (which allows guests to post comments), a review & rate gadget (which allows guests to…you guessed it…review and rate your blog), as well as a custom gadget (if you’re great at writing code)
. you can run reports, moderate comments and manage members
. this is still in beta, so there may be a few glitches. But overall, it looks like a fantastic app with a ton of possibilities in the near future

I look forward to seeing your profiles very soon!