Over 1.5 million local businesses have created a FREE presence on Facebook.  Everyday, over 20,000,000 Facebook users become fans of pages.  What a great way for you to spread the word about your service specialties and find new customers.  So what are you waiting for?  Create your business Facebook page today!

How to Create a Facebook Page for Your Business

Before creating a business page you need a personal Facebook account.  No worries, though, because your personal account will be completely separate from your business page.  So the first step is to create an account by going to www.Facebook.com.

Once you have an account and are logged in you will find yourself on your home page. Look for the button titled “Ads and Pages”. After clicking on the link you simply click on “Create a Page” and follow the steps. 

You are nearly ready to go, but let’s snazz up your business page.  To start, click on “edit page” under the big question mark.  Here you will be able to adjust your settings like whether or not you will allow your fans to post to your page.  You will also be able to set up discussion boards, create events, add photos and videos and other applications. 

Be sure to give people a reason to become a fan of your site.  To entice new fans, let them know that you will be posting specials on your page or interesting information that will benefit them.  Utilize tidbits from your monthly newsletter to intrigue people.  Also, announce promotions and events promptly for the largest impact.  The discussion board can be used to offer advice on specific topics.  If the question gets too big it’s your chance to set up an appointment and get a new client.

Do you have a Constant Contact Account?       

If you have a Constant Contact account, take advantage of the free application they created for Facebook that captures prospects emails without having to send them to your website.  This is an easy way to add more people to your monthly email list that could become your next customer.  This link gives you detailed instructions on how to set it up.

Scream It from the Rooftops

Now its time to let the world know you are on Facebook.  Facebook provides FREE widgets that will help you get the word out to those that visit your website.  You may decide to choose the Fan Box found at http://www.facebook.com/facebook-widgets/.  Choose your business page and click “other” for general websites.  Html code is generated for you to simply copy and paste into your website.

Invite your personal Facebook friends to become a fan of your new business page.  Use your Constant Contact account monthly newsletter or other regular email campaign to alert your customers that you have a page on Facebook.  When you speak to your customers in person and on the phone, also tell them about your new page.

Now you are set to go.  May your new Facebook business page bring you many new customers and entertain your existing ones.

Checklist

• Don’t disclose personal information on your business page

• Add a picture or logo for your business profile picture

• Type a catchy “About Us Bio”

• Add information about your services to be displayed on the “Info” tab

• Define contact information and business operation times clearly

• If you have business related videos or pictures upload these

• Update content regularly with tidbits from your monthly newsletter

• Offer discount, promotions and other incentives to encourage new fans

• Utilize the discussion board to answer questions and get new business

• Post events promptly