Facebooking Your Business

January 14, 2010

As of Nov. 2009, the social networking site, Facebook, had 350 million active users and they get more and more every day. Many businesses want to get in on the action, but are unsure of how they should use it. Facebook is an especially good tool for small businesses because it provides an opportunity to get into the same space as “Big Guys”.

When we heard about Hubspot’s Webinar “How Businesses are Using Facebook”, we knew it was something that our blog readers would want to know about. The webinar was full, but they graciously sent everyone who could not attend a link so we could download it.

Hubspot was founded in 2006 and they sell inbound marketing software. The goal of the presentation was to show marketers how Facebook could be useful in generating leads.

Most businesses use Fan Pages to connect with their customers. They are easy to create, but you need to let your customer’s know that it is there. Try posting a link on your homepage and encouraging customer’s to become a Fan. Also, post an announcement on your company’s blog. Once you have followers, it’s important to post regularly so you don’t fall off of your customers’ radars.

According to Hubspot, a successful Facebook Fan Page has the following:

Product Passion
Products and brands that already have a loyal fan base will do well on Facebook. Especially if you have a product that people like to discuss.

Useful and educational content
When you make a post on Facebook Fan Page, you should always ask yourself WHY the customer would want/need to know this information.

Fun!
Let your customer’s know that there is a human element behind your business. An example they provided in the webinar was of a business that posted pictures of their staff in ugly Christmas sweaters.

Practical information
Give general information about your businesses, such your location, what services you offer new products, etc.

A Facebook page is best used to establish trust and relationships with your customers. By keeping in constant touch with your customer base, your company will be the first they think of when they require your product or your service.

If you want to watch Hubspot’s webinar, you can download it here.