How to Set Up a Google+ Brand Page

1. Getting Started

To get started, sign in to your Google account and then head tohttp://www.google.com/+/business/. You can watch the video, but it's just a glossy marketing blurb with no how-to info.

2. Pick a Category

You now have to select which category your business fits into. The categories are as follows:
Local Business or Place
Suitable for: hotels, restaurants, places, stores, services
Product or Brand
Suitable for: apparel, cars, electronics, financial services

3. Add Info

Next up is entering your business name and website.
After this, you have to select an additional category that suits your business.
These sub-categories are dependent on the main category you choose.
For example, for "product or brand" you can choose from the likes of food and drink, arts and entertainment, fashion and beauty, home and garden, etc.

4. Tagline and Photo

If you thought Twitter's bio space was tight, Google+'s is even tighter. You have just 10 words to summarize your business.
After you've done this, you can add an image.

5. Get the Word Out

In the next step Google offers you the ability to tell your personal Google+ circles about your new business page.

6. Your Google+ Brand Page

And you're done! From here you're good to go with your brand new Google+ business page.
On your new welcome page, Google generates a link to your Plus page (sadly a string of random characters, rather than a vanity URL). You can also get a Google+ button for your site.
It's now up to you to start adding people to circles (different to personal pages, the defaults include "team members," "customers," and "VIPs") and get posting. Enjoy!

Using Google+? Add Mashable to your circles. You’ll get the latest about new Google+ features and tips and tricks for using the platform as well as top social media and technology news.
It’s been a long time coming, but Google has finally given the official go-ahead for businesses to create profileson the Google+ social network.
We have gone hands-on with the new option to offer you a simple walkthrough, demoing just how quick and easy it is to get set up on the service.
Take a look through our image gallery above for our no-nonsense how-to. Once you’ve got yours set up, link us in the comments to your brand’s Google+ page.
If you’re looking for inspiration, then take a look at what other brands have created in the gallery below.

Examples of Top Google+ Brand Pages

1. Angry Birds

The popular game welcomes Google+ followers with an excited "Ca-caww!"

2. Barcelona Football Club

FC Barcelona is the first team from the Professional Football League to launch a Google+ page.

3. Breaking News

The worldwide news source is already updating its followers on breaking events.

4. Burberry

The British brand's Google+ page is introduced by chief creative officer Christopher Baily.

5. Cadbury

In spirit of the company's Google+ launch, Cadbury has announced the special addition "Dairy +1 bar," the chocolate bar "that's perfect for sharing."
Stay tuned for Cadbury's page to launch.

6. Dallas Cowboys

Jerry Jones, Dallas Cowboys owner and general manager, welcomes followers to its Google+ page.

7. Fox News

Fox News is also celebrating its 15th anniversary, sharing a video flashback in celebration.

8. Good Morning America

The morning news source is already using its page to break stories.

9. Macy’s

Although Macy's has yet to post anything, judging by the photos, the page will likely be filled with updates as the holiday season nears.

10. Pepsi

Pepsi has shared a little history on the company's commercial music for its followers.