Without a doubt, unless you have been sleeping under a rock, you know about the popularity of social networking sites. About 70% of individuals aged 18 to 21 years old, almost half of all teens, and 20% of adults have a profile on social networking sites – according to Forrester Research. As a result it is no surprise that companies increasingly flock to Facebook to market their brands. A recent study by Rosetta Marketing found that 5% of the top 100 online retailers had a fan page on this popular website. Conversely, in May of 2008, just 30 of the top 100 retailers had a fan site. Who are these retailers you ask? Well, Wal-Mart, Best Buy, and Toys “R” Us are some of the major retailers that created a website since May of 2008.
What Exactly Are Fan Pages?
Fan pages allow businesses to directly interact with their customers on Facebook. “Fans” can upload photos and actively engage with other users on a fan page. Organizations have the opportunity to upload interactive videos and other types of multimedia on the fan page. Businesses can also send messages to their fans whenever the mood strikes them – thus, this format is an excellent way to keep customers informed about special events and offers that are related to the company.
Why is this format beneficial?
This form of advertising is free. Hey … who said that there was no such thing as a free lunch? Further, this fan page is public – and not private like much of Facebook. As a result search engines can index this fan page. In turn, your company may just get increased traffic to your website.
Also, this form of advertising is viral. When users become a fan of your site, it is advertised on all of their friends’ news feeds. Even if people have this news feed feature turned off, the fan page does show up on profiles and therefore your brand will be visible. Great extra exposure for brands!
Facebook Fan Page Advertising Advice
- Do not put up any “old thing” on a fan page. You must remember to cater to and actively work to engage your customer base. After all, if you do not engage your audience they will quickly lose interest in your product/business. Not quite the result you want!
- Users are more likely to interact with a brand that they feel passionate about. However, if your brand is not one that customers are likely to feel a great affinity for, all is not lost. You can offer certain rewards or incentives so that users will be more likely to engage with your brand.
- Remember to keep your fan page advertising consistent with your other online advertising efforts.
Overall then, if you are looking for an excellent – and free way – to market on Facebook, a fan page is definitely the way to go.
Written By: Larisa Redins
Tags: Fan Page on Facebook
