Everybody wants more friends, likes, and followers in social media…and whatever Google is calling theirs…for their businesses, campaigns, and efforts. And that is great.

One common call to action I see repeatedly in print and even local television advertising is the icon below:

It doesn’t work like that. Not well at least.

With that call to action, a customer may find you on Facebook if you are the only business with your name on the platform. They may just as well find a similar-named firm in Manitoba, they may find nothing, or they may find a sneaky competitor of yours.

What is the proper way to promote your Facebook presence IRL? It’s by using your full URL. For example, mine is Facebook.com/RocketGroup.

What are some other common things customers might find if they do find you on Facebook?
· The last time you updated your Page was over two months ago.
· You have a Facebook Profile instead of a Facebook Page. (A Cardinal Sin.)
· The purpose of interaction, engagement and developing your brand in your Fan’s eyes has been lost.

What we see a lot is businesses are not engaging with their customers. If someone responds to a post, asks a question, or posts to your wall…interact in the appropriate manner.

It’s the right thing to do.

Here is some more food for thought:

• If you want to be serious with your audience, empower someone dedicated to Social Media to manage your account.
• Unlink your twitter tweets and your Facebook posts. They are two different audiences. And your ‘more than #140’ tweets are getting lost. Share the same info, just in different ways.
• If you are going to schedule, which is ok to do, schedule at minimum Two Posts A Day. Just like Raisin Bran it will do you good. Don’t lump them all at one time, or on one day. You will be wasting your time.
• Ask questions. Customers will become accustomed to answering your questions. And when they do your brand is shared with their audiences as well.
• And remember, even if you aren’t on social media and aren’t paying attention to it several times a day, your customers and prospects are and they are talking about you and your efforts. Pay attention and interact. Just like everything else in your business life, Social Media is a commitment. You must commit to it and become involved or you are going to be losing out very soon.

Need help? We’re here.

Thanks for the time –

Gus