Can You List 10 Ways Facebook Can Help Your Local Small Business?

Image via CrunchBase

Do you think all those “new-fangled” websites like Twitter, Facebook, etc. are just a waste of time?

Here are 10 reasons why Facebook, specifically, can help a local small business owner.

1. Use Facebook for the art of the soft sell.  Sell through engagement.  Invite fans to
   your company blog or website for contests and internet only coupons.
   .
2. Facebook can be used as a brand awareness tool.  Offer something of value, show
   that you care.  This is your chance to make sure they know you, trust you, like you.
   Very powerful.
   .
3. Ask for referrals:  word of mouth advertising.  You already know rave reviews
   from real people is the best form of advertising.  And it’s free advertising.
   .
4. Make it fun for your fans by using the available applications or polls; drive more
   word of mouth referrals.
   .
5. Use the available Facebook widgets and ads.  Build a relationship.  Keep your
   audience in mind.
   .
6. Through your status updates, you can convey information about yourself or your
   business.  “David is in Dallas for a business meeting.  Give him a call if you’re there.”
   or “Congratulate John for his recent promotion.”
   .
7. Are you already using other online tools?  Do you have a blog, Twitter or FriendFeed?
   Do you read other business feeds?  Facebook has built in applications for lots of
   services that you may already be using.  If you’re already using these other tools,
   use them with your Facebook profile?
   .
8. Remember to keep it personal:  focus on the “people” element of your business and
   products/services, and your employees. When potential customers feel they can relate
   personally to a business or product, they feel a stronger connection and tell other people
   about it.
   .
9. Be frequent with your profile updates.  The more often you reach out to your fans,
   the more those future customers will return to learn more about you.
   .
10. Facebook has an application for everybody, but choose wisely.  The free applications
    number in the thousands, but you shouldn’t use every single one on your business page.

Apply yourself, and the sky’s the limit with all the available social media sites and applications.  They’re free to use; all it takes is a little of your time.  Of course, if you don’t want to take the extra time, just hire someone to do it for you.  There are many benefits to be gained.  Don’t put it off any longer.

Tommy Linsley offers internet marketing solutions and advice for small business owners.  Helping make your website a business tool, not just a pretty billboard on a dusty, country road.
http://UserWorthy.com