Facebook has millions of users, including individuals, families, groups, and companies around the globe.
The massive web community of Facebook offers possibilities for business owners. Because Facebook is a proven networking tool, businesses should consider reaching out to new customers through this application. In a sense, Facebook is the business owner’s vehicle for free online marketing because anyone can obtain a free profile and business page.
As a member of the Facebook community, a business uses the Facebook Page to develop a “face” on the web. Business owners should exercise caution in establishing the company’s online presence. The new online “face” of the company must not undermine or contradict the brand that the company has already created through conventional marketing strategies. It should go without saying that your Facebook Page should compliment your website, and is never meant to be a substitute for one. Your website and blog continue to be your primary online marketing tools.
The Facebook page is also a way to allow customers to access easy-to-read information about the company, including updates and photos. However, customers will also have the ability to make comments on a publicly viewable Facebook profile. Customers who type in a search engine query such as “ABC Company” can find the company’s Facebook profile in the search results. When customers land on a corporate Facebook page, they should be encouraged to stay and join the contacts of the company with engaging content that you post on the page.
Above all, Facebook is a social marketing tool. The messages you post onto your Facebook pages reflect your company. Do not write content that reads like a marketing brochure or a press release. As a business owner, remember to use a web-user-friendly style in all text. Two phrases that describe this communication style are “abbreviated” and “conversational.” But what makes online text conversational? Look at the two examples below.
Sentence #1: ABC Company is pleased to announce that the third line of its eco-friendly t-shirts will be available for sale online on December 1.
Sentence #2: ABC Company launches our third line of T-shirts on December 1! Check back on Facebook for a link to our order page. Get a T-shirt of your own for a great price.
After reading the two sentences above, which one would you select as more conversational and appealing to a Facebook reader?
The second sentence offers all of the same information as the first sentence; however, the second sentence is more casual. The informal tone of the second sentence ensures that many Facebook readers will feel like ABC Company is talking directly to them.
Remember that Facebook and other social networks create new business marketing buzz. If you want to unlock the potential of Facebook, begin by conducting research on how social media marketing works. Your exploration of social media marketing strategies will give you a better understanding of how to use Facebook for online marketing.
Written by Andrea Kalli
EMAIL Andrea.
Andrea Kalli is the owner of Andrea Kalli Virtual Trainer and Assistant, LLC, the Outlook, SharePoint, and Business Technology Podcast, and the Small Business Podcast Directory.
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