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So what is the Google+1 button, you may have seen it appearing in the google search results, and on some websites and blogs.  Simply put the button is very similar to a facebook like button, you are essentially 'recommending' a web site or individual page.  Before you can use Google's +1 feature you will have to have a Google account with a profile, then you will be able to plus one something and see other plus one's (you will know if you have to create an account and/or profile when you try to use a +1 button)

The idea is that your +1's will be visible to your friends and contacts through your account, this means that if someone you know has recommended a website you will be able to see it.  This should mean that you will be able to choose sites based on a friends recommendation, making it easier to pick out a single website in the google search.  If you don't want others to see your Google+1's then you can make them private, However your plus one will still be counted as it is regarded as a 'public action' by Google.

As Google is the most used search engine (currently) and many companies rely on traffic from it, most of these sites will probably start using the +1 button.  Unlike the facebook like button it does not directly share the link with you friends but it could prove useful when you are looking for a service online e.g. builder, plumber or estate agent! who has recommended them? if a friend Google +1's a website you may be more likely to visit their site.