Here’s a quick overview on how to use Facebook to help your business.
If you’re unsure of whether to create a Group or Page, here’s a quick definition. “Groups” are really for a community of people w/a common cause or interest. A “Page” represents a brand or identity.
It’s good to have both a personal profile and a page. Your personal profile allows people to connect with you on a different level and you can easily connect with people in a local network or business network that you either work within or are interested in.
Then create a Page, publish it and become a fan. Why? Pages rank both in Facebook AND public search results. That’s great for visibility in the search engines. If you want to attract local clients, use your local geo info in your description when you create your page.
Many people are concerned about the fact that Facebook claims to own the photos we share. How can you grow your Page without adding actual photos? Create events, attend events that interest you, add videos with tips that are helpful to your clients/customers, participate in discussions, post your blog articles. I recommend that you add some photos, because it helps people to connect with you and your business. With that said, you can be very selective and add only the photos you are comfortable sharing.
Now post a link or badge to your FB Page on your blog or website. This is a great way to add traffic and “fans”.
Click on “Friends” and import your contact list.
Share information! Get involved, and participate in discussions and attend events.
Every time a fan engages with your page it is published to their news feed, and seen by all their friends. It’s a great way to gain exposure to groups, people and companies outside your normal sphere of influence.
Another key – make sure your Page is publicly search-able. Go to “Edit Page”, “Settings” and make sure it says “Published (publicly…).
Connect with local networks and find the companies you want to work for by searching for them and request them to be your friend. Companies are all about increasing their “friends”, customers and influence. Then get involved in their discussions. Don’t sell. Just get involved, offer tips or advice if that’s appropriate, and they’ll notice you.
ADVERTISE! It’s very inexpensive on FB, very effective, and you can target who sees the ad by location, age, gender, keywords, etc. (Go with PPC, not views.)
Facebook is growing by millions. It is worth it to your business to be involved there.
Let me know if you have questions in the discussion/comment section below. I’d love to know your thoughts, and what would be helpful to you in your business.
~Kate
