A. Gibson

Google rules when it comes to mobile and search — but the one thing it just can’t seem to master is social.

In a memo to all staff earlier this week, Larry Page mandated employees get social with Google’s suite of tools (Google +1); 25% of their yearly bonus will depend upon it.

Over the last few weeks, several social elements have been integrated into Google Places:

• Google hotpot’s recommendation engine for Google Places
• Latitude’s social check-in and loyalty status program for Google Places
• Popular products are available at specific Google Places

This comes on the heels of Bing launching their Bing Business Portal (BETA) — its equivalent to Google Places. Local is still heating up; There is certainly much more to come.

Here’s a good overview of each new Google Places social element by 360i. Take a look for yourself at how Google Places is going social. More on the NEW Bing Business Portal next week. Enjoy.

Have a great, Good Friday and a very Happy Easter.