Businesses don’t know why they want a Facebook page

Some businesses don’t know why they want a Facebook page.

Stan is one of my newest clients. He’s really old school. He’s not “low-tech,” he’s “no-tech.” His desk is devoid of any computer. Funny, he has an iPhone. He totally relies on his assistant, Liz, to do all his on-line chores.

Still, he insists he needs a Facebook page for his business. Why I asked him. “Because everyone expects me to have one” he defiantly states. “I’ll have Liz run it for me.” Liz butts in, “But I can’t speak for you. I’m not licensed to give insurance advice.” Stan says, “just call me when you need help.”

This is no way to run a Business Page on Facebook. Facebook is Social Media. “Social” is the operative word. What’s the point of having an assistant faking for you? People aren’t that stupid. Then can tell when you’re not real. All you will accomplish is alienating your fans and losing the whole reason for having a business presence on Facebook in the first place.

Business owners have to unlearn the old ways of "one-way," or "out-bound," 
marketing. Facebook is not a billboard or a glossy brochure. It’s not a web site either.

Let me explain further…Billboards and brochures serve to spark initial interest; they move people to learn more about your business. Your website serves as a place with detailed information. People go there to learn more in depth information of your goods and/or services. Their purpose is to motivate a potential customer to convert to a real customer. Information flows outward from these things. This isn’t always enough to close the deal.

Now lets give the potential customers a tool to engage with us, ask us questions, chat with your “raving fans.” Give them a place to know, like, and trust you. People ultimately buy from people they like and trust. That’s the power of the Social aspect of Facebook! You see, the static’ness of billboards, brochures, and web sites can’t replace human interaction.

I go to several networking club meetings each week. I go to make friends with other small business owners and reps. There we learn each other’s business, and usually buy from our club friends because we have a personal relationship with them. And also recommend them to our other personal friends. It’s the oldest viral marketing system. Facebook simply does this on the net. That’s it. Facebook is people connecting with people.


Be real everyone... Joel

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Joel Lukacher’s is a Facebook specialist for business. His MO is "LikeCatcher" as in LikeCatcher Social Media Marketing of Fort Lauderdale, FL. He’s available for speaking engagements and consults. Give Joel a call you’re disappointed with your results from social media, are curious about it, or are ready to dive in. You can find Joel at Facebook, Twitter, and LinkedIn.