Google + fans worldwide…rejoice! There finally seems to be a notable growth in the young social network. For a time after the initial launch in mid-2011, sign-ups slowed down considerably, and those of us that had signed up were hearing echoes coming back at us from the stream page. Now it seems we may not have to talk to ourselves much longer!

At the end of January 2012, Google + reported over 65 million users (not bad for 6 months). Whilst 65 million isn’t any comparison to Facebook, it’s still very significant. Growth of this kind only happens for one reason, because they’re doing something right. For who? Short answer: businesses.

The growth of Google + in recent months has been very steady and will keep going this way, so get in there now before your competitors.

Even for seasoned pro’s like Google, this growth is happening at a pretty impressive rate.

Google + is not without its faults, but I’m guessing they’re working on this, it is Google after all. The circles feature can be sluggish and it can be hard work to connect with new individuals. I would be confident that as the network expands, new and improved features will be introduced to keep the audience sweet.

When comparing like with like, it is important to remember that Facebook’s only business is Facebook, the same can not be said for Google +. Google are primarily a search engine who have now broadened their horizons. They have a large clientele, are respected in the industry, and through their search engine capabilities, have a many avenues to grow their user base. Putting it another way: Google are in a strong position to influence growth.

So what started quite sluggishly as a social media identity is now starting to gather some momentum. If you have yet to succumb to the charms Google +, perhaps it’s time you did so.

Matt Beswick runs an SEO agency in London, among his clients he lists Calle Arco.