How To Represent Your Business On Facebook
Facebook currently has nearly 3 billion active users. And while many come to share a picture with friends or update their status, others use Facebook to check out a local business, read reviews, and even shop. Facebook is a must-have online presence for businesses wanting to grow their audience and attract new customers. How you choose to show up on Facebook will shape your success.
Why Have a Facebook Presence
Over 200 million businesses use Facebook today to promote their business. Having a Facebook presence provides exposure, builds trust and a sense of community. But before you jump all in and start posting, there’s one question you may be asking: should I use my Facebook profile to start posting for my business or create a Facebook page? Which one is best to use as a business?
Can You Use Your Facebook Profile?
Facebook profiles are created for one individual for personal use. This is where you connect with friends and family, share photos and status updates with Facebook friends, and follow other businesses or join Facebook groups. You may be tempted to use your Facebook profile to introduce and promote your new business. After all, you already have hundreds of friends to share with. But this is not the most effective use of the platform, nor will it be appreciated by friends and family who follow you for you, not necessarily for your business.
The purpose in having a social media presence as a business is to grow your following and sales. You simply can’t do that with a Facebook profile. Luckily, Facebook has a solution.
The Facebook Business Page
In contrast, a Facebook page can be used by anyone who wants to connect with fans or customers. This could be any business small or large, any artist or celebrity figure. Anyone who wants to build a following and share their business or passion. If you are a business, a Facebook page is for you. And it comes with a lot of great features.
Running a Facebook Page
A Facebook business page is part mini website, part social media sharing and strategy. As a mini website, it’s important to have the following elements on your Facebook page:
Business name, type of business, and about summary
Business profile picture and cover photo
All contact information (phone number, email, website, other social handles)
A call to action (Facebook will give you options to choose such as contact, shop, or start your order; choose which option works best for your goals)
Physical location if applicable
Begin to add applicable promotional photos, videos, etc.
After you have these elements setup on your Facebook page, you can begin to share regular content and build your social media strategy. People can leave reviews of your business, comment on your post, and even message you directly on Facebook. You’re well on your way to building a following and becoming a successful business on Facebook.
Facebook Marketing
Due to the vast number of active users on Facebook and their solid business page setup, having a Facebook presence is a valuable asset for any business. From the start, the page can act as an extension of your website with all contact information, visuals, and reviews easily seen. As people discover your page, the activity helps build your reputation as a business and trust from new customers. This results in, of course, more sales and business for you.
