So we’ve decided to use social media marketing. Your business in online. What is Facebook etiquette? Let’s explore some Facebook Do’s and Don’ts in order to extend our reach and gain traction whilst keeping our online reputation intact.
Do:
- Keep your posts short. – Facebook posts with less than 140 characters get more engagement.
- Answer questions and respond to posts – Your Facebook page is not only a place to put information. Ask questions of fans, reply to them and engage in conversation. Facebook is all about being personal.
- Ask questions and ask for feedback – The best posts on Facebook pages tend to be questions. Ask them often and listen to what your users are saying and remember the previous “DO” respond to their replies.
- Participate in the conversation – Customers appreciate business owners who take interest.
- Provide helpful links– Facebook is not only about promotion be helpful and share knowledge.
- Follow thought leaders – Find people in your niche and follow them — and make sure to interact with them and their followers.
- Run promotions – Offer specials, coupons and limited time offers.
- Keep customers informed – Are you closing for a stock take, or closing early let your customers and clients know ahead of time.
- Facebook fans love photos – Have you considered posting pictures of your employes, the local area, your business.
- Don’t’ forget manners – say thank you – Thank your followers and fans often. Remember they are the focus of your page.
Don’t:
- Over-post – This would depend on your page but if your un-likes on you page, increase or your engagement stops, consider if you are over posting.
- Excessively self-promote – there are general rules of thumb to consider. Mine is usually one promote to 3-4 pictures, image, quote or other light hearted engaging material.
- Consider your spelling and grammar
- Stand back and not engage – this is not the time to be shy – This is your opportunity to speak directly to your customers. Be outgoing and engaging.
- Be professional at all times –Do not post rants or moan about employees or customers and consider all replies before posting. This is a public forum.
- Stay away from contentions issues such as politics religion – You may have your opinion but Facebook is not the place to take a stand. This is your business page after all and your customer base is probably varied in their values and beliefs.
- Bad Mouth Competitors – It looks unprofessional.
- Share Secrets- You are promoting yourself in this environment for people to gain trust and confidence in your ability. Be aware of what you are sharing.
Your Facebook page is an extension of your brand. Yes it is more informal but you have your online reputation to consider
The Do’s and Don’t of Facebook – what have you found works or has not worked for your business facebook page? We’d love to hear from you.
For more information please connect with a social media coach.
