I started doing something about a year ago that really has helped me. I started setting up Google Alerts for a bunch of things.
You can think of Google Alerts like a continuous search for a specific keyword (your choosing) and the results get sent to you automatically via email.
Google allows you to set up lots of these types of searches (up to 1,000) and it can be really useful. And if you’re worried about information overload, don’t worry because Google allows you to manage how many and how often these alerts get sent to you.
I also like Google Alerts because it’s a simple yet powerful tool that is free to use and doesn’t require that you have a gmail account.
Here are just a few ways you can use Google Alerts:
Car recalls
I don’t trust the dealership or car manufacturers to alert me when there is a recall for my car. I just bought a used 2007 Honda Accord and I set up an alert for “2007 Honda Accord recall.” Now, whenever there is a new recall, I’ll know.
Sports
I like hearing about any trade rumors for the sports teams that I root for (Giants, 49ers, and Golden State Warriors). I have an alert for each of these i.e. “Golden State Warriors trade rumors.”
Your own name
Start being proactive in protecting your online presence by creating an alert for your own name.
At the office
If there is a keyword or term used in your industry that you want to track, set up an alert for that. In a short period of time, you’ll be the most knowledgeable person on that in the office.
Video Games
How nice would it be to get “Call of Duty advanced tips” sent to you periodically. Your buddies won’t know what hit them.
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