Social media marketing has become an essential part of any successful business strategy. With over 3 billion monthly active users, Facebook is the largest and most influential social network out there. Effectively using Facebook can help small businesses build brand awareness, engage with customers and drive sales.
However, with so many features and options available, it can be daunting for small businesses to know where to start. That’s why we’ve put together this guide covering 10 simple Facebook marketing tips to help your small business succeed.
1. Focus on High-Quality Visual Content
High-quality images and videos tend to get more engagement on Facebook than plain text updates. When sharing content, include relevant photos, infographics, illustrations or short video clips. This visual content will catch the eye and get more people clicking, commenting and sharing your posts.
For example, an update announcing a new product could include a photo of the product being used along with a caption highlighting the key features and benefits. A short 15-30 second video demoing the product would also work well. You should also make sure to use business banners for your cover photo highlighting exactly what it is you sell.
2. Leverage Hashtags Strategically
Using targeted hashtags makes it easy for people to find your content and join in the conversation. Research popular hashtags related to your industry along with trending topics and current events. Then incorporate relevant hashtags into your updates to increase visibility.
For example, a cafe could include hashtags like #coffee, #barista and #coffeelover. Just be sure not to overdo it by cramming lots of unrelated hashtags into each post. Stick to 2-5 well-chosen hashtags per update.
3. Run Engaging Contests and Giveaways
Running contests and giveaways is an excellent way to grow your Facebook audience and increase engagement. Offer an appealing prize like your products/services, gift certificates or fun branded merchandise. Then ask people to like, share or comment on your post to enter.
Make the requirements simple with only 1-2 steps to complete. Publish a series of contest posts over the course of a campaign to keep it top of mind. Use contest apps like Rafflecopter to easily collect entries and pick random winners.
4. Leverage Facebook Groups
Joining relevant Facebook Groups allows you to connect with your target audience in a more conversational way. Look for established groups focused on topics related to your business. Be an active participant by commenting on discussions, offering advice and sharing helpful resources.
You can also create your own branded Facebook Group as a space for customers to interact. Offer exclusive deals, facilitate discussions and build a community around your brand. Just be sure to have some rules in place and moderate actively.
5. Use Facebook Live Video
Facebook Live video is an easy way to create engaging content that feels organic and authentic. Go live to give product demos, host Q&As, share behind-the-scenes footage or announce sales.
The video automatically gets published to your Page for replay after the live broadcast. Facebook also gives live videos more visibility in the algorithm, so more people will likely see your content.
6. Create Lead Ads
Lead ads make it easy to turn Facebook engagement into sales leads. You can create customised forms like contact request, newsletter sign up, contest entry or appointment booking. These lead gen forms appear right in your ads so people can fill them out without leaving Facebook.
For example, a personal trainer could run a lead ad with a form for scheduling a free intro session. This allows capturing leads while people are already engaged.
7. Retarget Website Visitors
The Facebook pixel allows retargeting website visitors with relevant ads across Facebook apps. Install the pixel on your site, then build custom audiences of site visitors. Now you can serve them targeted ads, like an ebook they left in their cart or a coupon code for their next purchase.
For example, an online boutique could retarget customers who browsed dresses with an ad featuring that product category. Retargeting helps turn site traffic into sales.
8. Analyse Results and Refine
Take advantage of Facebook’s detailed analytics to see what type of content works best and which ads get the most clicks. Look at engagement, reach, website traffic and conversions for your posts. For ads, analyse CTR, CPM, impressions and return on ad spend.
Based on the results, double down on what’s working well. Cut back on or eliminate what’s not generating clicks and conversions. This allows refining your strategy over time for optimal results.
9. Encourage Sharing
Make it easy for fans to share your Facebook content with their own networks. At the end of key posts, prompt them to like, comment or share. You can even offer incentives for social sharing like exclusive content or discounts.
Buttons to easily share content should also be prominent on your website and blog. This expands your reach as happy customers pass your content along to their friends.
10. Respond to Comments and Messages
Stay on top of activity in your Facebook notifications. Be responsive to comments on your Page posts, photos and videos. Quickly replying shows customers you care. It also keeps them engaged with your brand.
The same goes for Facebook Messenger. Many users now prefer messaging businesses instead of calling customer service. So, be ready to have real conversations that build relationships.
Being active in these public discussions and private messages humanises your brand and strengthens ties with your audience.
These 10 tips cover the fundamentals of an effective Facebook marketing strategy for small businesses. Focus on visual content, smart hashtag use, engaging contests, Facebook Groups activity, live video broadcasting, lead ads, retargeting, analytics, encouraging sharing and consistent posting. Hire content marketing agencies for help if you need it.