Sourcing and creating web-optimized graphics is no longer limited to expensive desktop-based software that has a tough learning curve.  There are tools available "in the cloud" that make it easy for marketers without any training in Photoshop or Illustrator, to edit images and create what's needed.  This post shows how to create a cover image for us with content distribution to media platforms such as SoundCloud, Scribd, and others.

We've created a list at List.ly and embedded it here - with the top tips we've been able to uncover about what you need to think about when uploading videos to YouTube so they are set up to get maximium exposure.  We also have links to a couple of other killer sources for building and optimizing your YouTube channel.

As social media gets more mature as an industry, and brands have sunk big social media budgets into building presence on Facebook, LinkedIn, Twitter, and Google+ (not to mention the likes of YouTube, Pinterest, and Instagram), the nature of how businesses will be able to engage on those platforms is shifting.   Your social channel strategy may need some major revisions.

Recent research shows that having Google Plus Authorship set up and using it can impact search results in a big way.  If you don't have Google+ Authorship ... then get it set up for anyone posting articles to your blog, and build the authorship reputation.

Google+ is now the 2nd largest social network in the world.  Google is using it to help verify content authority, and it will have a big impact on getting ranked in search engines.  Some are saying those that don't get on board are destined for irrelevance.  We've outlined some very real reasons why you need a Google+ profile and business page to help your online marketing effectiveness.