It should go without saying, but we’ll say it anyway: Facebook can be a big help to small businesses’ marketing efforts. But like anything else, it takes work to get it right. Posting intriguing status updates and sharing relevant news, pictures and videos is great. However, to turn all those posts into sales, you need to give your audience a reason to love you.
Not sure how to do that? Well, you could slip them all love potions…or you could keep reading for some more reasonable (and legal!) Facebook marketing ideas for small businesses.
1. Run Cool Contests
Ask your audience to name your next product, vote on a new logo or decide which color to paint the inside of your CEO’s office. Determine the winner by the comment that has the most Likes.
People are more apt to interact when they feel they have some input. And when they have a personal investment in the outcome, they just may want to give you their money (i.e. buy your products or services) to claim their stake.
2. Offer Exclusive Discounts
It’s an old trick, but it’s a good one: Give your audience something for their troubles. Offer a 15% discount on products or services for anyone who Likes your small business’ Facebook page. To keep them coming back for more, be sure offer deals via Facebook on a regular basis.
3. Host Secret Flash Sales and Giveaways
Interaction is key. It’s not enough to get people to Like your small business on Facebook. They’ve got to love you! Consider hosting secret flash sales for your fans. Offer a deep discount once a week to the first 20 people who comment on a status. Once a month, give things away randomly in return for shares or Likes. Free stuff keeps people coming back every time.
4. Promote Your Posts
We know, we know – Facebook is supposed to be free. But like any other business (big or small), the company has to make its cut, too. Facebook does this in the way of ads and promoted posts.
Secret new algorithms are making your regular posts less visible to a good chunk of your fan base. Paying for placement on the social media giant’s network helps you be seen by everyone.
5. Keep It Short and Sweet
Posting often is a must. You don’t want to be forgotten. Be consistent with your updates, but don’t be too wordy. Your audience wants to know what you’re doing, but they won’t spend 5 minutes reading a Facebook post. Make sure each post has value to your fans and company, and that you’re sharing new information, not the same old stuff.
Remember, there’s a very fine line between successful and spammy.
Facebook is a fantastic tool for small business marketing. But if you’re not doing it right, you’re wasting your time. Fortunately, Mischa Communications has some social media geniuses on staff to lend a hand if you’re a social media rookie. We can show you how to turn all those Likes into genuine customer love!