| Some business owners ask, why is it important to establish online presence through social networking sites particularly Facebook even when you already have an official website?
Simple, because Facebook is more accessible and to most, more user-friendly than any traditional website will ever be. It gives a sense of friendliness to business that puts prospects at ease and lends a sense of credibility to businesses who have no website to speak of.
Aside from this, a Facebook page allows a business to be more interactive with present and potential customers, getting their feedback for everything from product reviews to testimonials. While it may seem scary because you can be given both positive and negative feedback, businesses should not be afraid because with Facebook it can be easily moderated.
If you have a mind to you can retain the best feedback and hide the rest. This way, most potential customers will be able to read the positive testimonials of previous customers. Such feedback adds a touch of authenticity to your business, and can entice the potential customer reading it.
Furthermore, customers who are tired of traditional online marketing such as email, newsletters and online ads will look to the Facebook page to have their questions answered. Having a Facebook page will give your business access to over 500 Million users without even having to buy e-mail addresses like what traditional email marketing resort to.
Interaction isn't limited to Facebook updates and wall posts though. You can also use Apps to provide photos, notes and videos. When using a Fanpage which is the recommended page for businesses (instead of the more personal profile page), you can change the posting ability of fans which allow them to post photos, videos and links to the page. This way, potential customers will be able to see how other customers use the product or service.
Again, this can engage the community to be more interactive as was successfully executed by the Pampers? Facebook Fanpage. Other companies like Ben & Jerry?s go as far as polling customers. This gives customers a sense of power with regards to their products, which in turn will give them a sense of ownership and acceptance.
Facebook is also a great tool to gain audience to promos, special prices and discounts as in the case of the company rushIMPRINT, who use their page to feature their products for sale.
The site easily leads back to their official website as well as their toll free number. Some even use Facebook to give exclusive deals to their customers. This is a good way to gauge the effectively of your page.Various incentives can be given exclusively to Facebook users which aren't accessible by those who follow you through e-mail, Twitter or your official website.
Other companies such as Baskin Robbins develop and use a Facebook application to make their Facebook page more interactive and enticing to customers. Through their account, they?re giving out a very enticing deal, a Buy One, get one promo that most enthusiasts will not surpass.
Facebook is an easy tool to master and can add just the right sense of fun, differentiating you and your business from the rest in the market. |