Google Isnt Ashamed of Its Growth

 

5. Google is creating jobs

During his prepared testimony discussing the virtues of his company, Schmidt used the economy to help bolster his argument. He noted that since 2002, Google has created more than 23,000 jobs, and the company expects to have its biggest hiring year in 2011. Playing the jobs game is something that Google has obviously clung to. But whether or not it will work remains to be seen.

6. Google really can't stand Microsoft

Even with Google's back against the wall, Schmidt couldn't help but take shots at Microsoft. In both the prepared testimony and during questioning, Schmidt alluded to Microsoft's antitrust suit from the late-1990s, saying in coded language that Google is no Microsoft. It was an interesting move and seemed to indicate that Google's issues with Microsoft run deep.

7. Google is ready to face more inquiries

Schmidt came prepared to face the slings and arrows of the Senate subcommittee. He provided Google's side of the story, answered inquiries quite convincingly and generally proved that the company's strength goes beyond the Web. The company is prepared to face more inquiries and overcome them. Schmidt is a smart person with a battery of high-powered lawyers to help him out. Expect those two components to play a crucial role in Google's strategy with future government inquiries.

8. Google search is just the tip of the iceberg

When the subcommittee had the chance to pelt Schmidt with questions about Google, it was clear that search was just the tip of the iceberg. Schmidt seemed ready to field any questions outside of the company's core platform. From Google's troubles with the United States over Canadian prescription drug ads to Yelp, the company seemed to have ready answers for any questions the senators might want to ask. And that could help it in the long run.

9. Google doesn't think its size is a problem

Let's face it: Google is a huge company with an immense amount of power in the marketplace. But during Schmidt's testimony, it quickly became clear that Google doesn't see a problem with that. Schmidt touted the search company's growth, discussed its prominence in search results and even mentioned its bid to be the most influential company in the mobile space. Typically, companies facing FTC inquiries want to play down their size and strength. But it appears that Google doesn't plan to use that tactic.

10. Schmidt will be the public face of Google

Going forward, it appears that Schmidt will be the public face of Google, leaving CEO Larry Page free to run the company. With Microsoft, it was a different story: Bill Gates was forced to field the inquiries. But by putting Schmidt, Google's executive chairman, out in front of the people to talk about Google's size and influence, the search giant made an incredibly smart move. Now, the public can look to Page as the "product" person and Schmidt-someone who isn't involved in day-to-day operations-as the "legal" person. It was a brilliant PR move that will benefit Google greatly.

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