Will My Personal Credit Score Hurt My Business?

Entrepreneurs aren't born overnight - one day you have an idea and it builds until you launch your 'dream job.' Your very own start-up small business can be exciting and scary. Figuring out how to fund your business usually falls into the 'scary' category.

A successful small business requires money to sustain it and investment to grow it. Of course, securing investors is difficult so small business owners usually rely on a business loan or line of credit to supplement initial business growth.

This means a bank is going to look at YOU and your Credit to determine if you business is viable. Your credit does not have to be perfect to get a loan or line of credit to start a business but obviously - the better your history the higher your chances are to obtain financing.

Facebook Page Size Guide (for non-techie users)

Find this infographic at www.Pinterest.com/Qlixite

A Word about Pixels...
A pixel is a unit of measurement used in digital imaging. It is the smallest controllable element of a picture represented on a digital screen. Facebook uses pixels to specify image sizes however they will automatically scale an image down to fit. We have given you image sizes in inches as well that are the proper ratio for easy use.

• Cover Photo 851 x 315 pixels
(you could use an image 6.75” x 2.5”)

How to Think Outside the Box as a Small Business

See the Infographic @ http://Pinterest.com/Qlixite

The expression "Think outside the box," is synonymous with creativity, innovation and ideas. Everyone is looking for the next 'big idea' that could take a company from one among the crowd to leading the way to a whole new adventure. But as small business owners - we tend to think that in order to think outside the box - we have to have lots of...everything! We need more employees, more clients, more products and definately more money! Not true! Thinking outside the box is about fresh ideas and branching out from [your] normal mode of operation. You are perfectly primed to get your creative hat on BECAUSE you're a small business.

But here are some steps to get you out of the box.

Step 1 - Identify Opportunites
Opportunities lie everywhere you look in your business. Maybe it's your system of advertising, your style of customer service or the way you display your services. Start paying attention to your business flow and identify areas that are stale or where the 'same old, same old' isn't working like it used to.

5 Ways to Recession-Proof Your Holidays

Photo Credit: shutterstock.com

Worried about funding your holidays because of the recession? Thinking about cutting back? While saving for the rainy day might be smart in a tough economy, it definitely doesn't make for a fun holiday season. Therefore, it's important to take action now and learn how to recession proof your holidays so you can enjoy them.

Tip #1 Potluck your holiday meals
When getting together with family, friends or co-workers for holiday meals and parties, don't take on the burden of paying for the entire meal. Let your guests bring their favorite holiday dish. Make it fun by having a contest or making it a recipe swap.

Tip #2 Raid the Local Dollar Store or Goodwill
You will be surprised by the kinds of holiday items they sell including wrapping paper, wreaths, ornaments, table runners and stocking stuffers. These small items can really add up at major retailers so saving here can allow you to spend more on bigger presents for your loved ones.

Big Name Companies Opt for Simple Logo Designs: Should You Follow the Trend?

EBay recently joined other big names like Microsoft and Apple not for a new release of a mini tablet or operating system but for remodeling their iconic logo. This has many business owners looking at their own brand and wondering if there is merit to this trend.

Deven Wenig, president of eBay, had this to say about the logo:

Our refreshed logo is rooted in our proud history and reflects a dynamic future. It’s eBay today: a global online marketplace that offers a cleaner, more contemporary and consistent experience, with innovation that makes buying and selling easier and more enjoyable. We retained core elements of our logo, including our iconic color palette. Our vibrant eBay colors and touching letters represent our connected and diverse eBay community – more than 100 million active users and 25 million sellers globally and growing.
 

Obviously when a business decides to change their logo - risk is involved as well as re-branding numerous products including everything from websites to sales materials to the sign on the building. However, as most small businesses look to the big names as examples, it's hard to miss the current trend.

Simple...is in!

Learn from the World Series and Super Bowl to Motivate Your Small Business to Win!

Millions of people tune in by radio, television and streaming feed to watch SPORTS. The 'big game' draws more attention than other events such as a politial debate, breaking international news or even a natural disaster. As a country, we're probably not ashamed to say it - we're sports obesessed. We applaud and celebrate the shot, the stop, the drive...the winning play that made history. Some even experience agony when their beloved team does the unthinkable...they lose.

There are critics who argue that sports pay hommage to inflated salaries and offer a distraction from real life but when it comes to business - sports might have a few points worth taking notice.

Goal Oriented Excellence

Every year, thirty-two NFL teams compete for the chance to be in the Super Bowl (one of the most watched televised events ever). Thirty MLB teams take aim at a shot of playing in the World Series. For Basketball, it's all about the Finals and for Hockey, the Stanley Cup reigns supreme. The winners receive praise, parades, record book titles, tons of confetti and possibly a shower from a cooler full of gatorade.

10 Tips to Public Speaking Like a Business Pro

At some point - as an entrepreneur - you will need to speak. You cannot hide in the background forever - whether it's introducing yourself at a business meet up or presenting to your staff - you will need to speak in front of a group of people. Odds are you will need to sell a product or a service or an idea and it all hinges on this one speech. After you read our 10 tips below - you'll be speaking like a pro!

Before You Speak

1. What do they want? How can you help them specifically?

Most polished public speakers will tell you that the first question you should always ask yourself before taking a speaking job is "Does this audience want what I've got?" Now, you're not exactly a professional public speaker but that doesn't mean you can't learn from the pros. Even when making a presentation to a leads group or Chamber of Commerce - know your audience. What do they need? What do you offer that will make a difference to them. Audiences are self-centered so everything you say needs to be tuned to what they need to hear.

4 Steps to Handling Negative Online Reviews

If you work with small businesses like us you start to recognize the cries for help when a usually spotless reputation shows the dark mark of an almost unspeakable villain...the unhappy customer.

"Yelp! I've Gotten a Bad Review - Now What?"

We understand your plight. Used to be that when you or your employee had a bad day that affected a customer or a product malfunctioned - you only had to worry about who that individual could tell in their circle of friends. Now with the advent of the internet and jumbo review sites like Yelp.com - you have to worry that one bad experience could haunt you for the rest of your career (or worse lead to the end of it)

So what do you do when your business gets a bad review on user sites like Yelp?

5 Reasons to Participate in Small Business Saturday

Small Business Saturday 2012 is November 24th, less than 2 months away! If your a small business you might be teetering on the fence of whether you should participate in this annual "Shop Small" Extravaganza. Maybe you're a new entrepreneur. Perhaps you've heard rumors or noticed the television ads sponsored by American Express.

The time to leap off the fence is here and we've got 5 Reasons you should throw your hat in on Small Business Saturday!

1. Be a part of a Nationwide Campaign

American Express sponsors Small Business Saturday which means (drumroll)....MONEY! This is a huge nationwide marketing campaign pushing consumers (ie: YOUR customers) to shop their local businesses on Saturday, November 24th (Why that Saturday? Black Friday is the day before and Cyber Monday is not far behind). Think of how much it costs to run television ads, direct mail, run social media campaigns and spread the word - now imagine that ALL of that is being done for you. All you have to do is tell all of your customers and clients that you're participating and then be open for business that day.

Creating Landing Pages with Squidoo

According to Squidoo.com...

Squidoo makes it easy to build custom pages about the things you know and love

On Squidoo, you can write a page. A single webpage, focused on a single topic.

Then you can build another page. And another one. And another. Each page on a different interest. Tell a story, recommend a product you love, share an experience you had, teach someone something, pay tribute to a person you admire (an author, band, your mom... ) and so much more.

We call these pages lenses because they snap your point of view into focus. It's simple to write a lens. And of course, it's free. Even if you build 100 of them! You can also start to earn royalties from your writing, when the pages earn their way up in the site and when readers start interacting with them.

So how could this help your business?

Well as much as we like the idea and cool verbiage of a "lens" you could also think of these pages as landing pages that could help bring people to you! A landing page is a page on a website that concentrates on one idea or one product or one service with a push to get the visitor to do something (ie: click a link, visit another page, buy now, become a fan, share etc).

Alt Code Cheat Sheet for Business

Sometimes, when writing a blog or social media post - you need a symbol. It could be the ♂ or Φ or ♥ or maybe even £. Going through your document software to insert the symbol can be annoying or depending on your comfort level - downright impossible. And in cases of social media - you don't get those kind of formatting options.

Cue the Alt Codes

We've all seen a friend or colleague use a little ♫ here or a cute ☼ there or maybe reference the Chinese Yen ¥ easily in an email. Now you can also look cool (and of course, professional) by using alt codes.

Contents:
• How to make an alt code
• Popular alt codes we recommend
• Link to the cheat sheet on Pinterest

Easy Business Answers: How to Create a Business Logo Design?

Welcome to Qlixite answers where we ask the box to go beyond it. We take common questions that business owners have and give you easy, straightforward answers you can actually use!

Today’s we’re asking the box a branding question about logo design.

Do I need a logo?
The truth is, despite the old adage, people DO judge a book by it’s cover. Your logo is the “cover” to your business. It’s the first thing a potential customer sees (whether it’s on your business card, a website or storefront signage). A logo promotes your professionalism and instills trust to your customer that you are a legitimate business.

Easy Business Answers: What is Search Engine Optimization?

Welcome to Qlixite answers where we ask the box to go beyond it. We take common questions that business owners have and give you easy, straightforward answers you can actually use!

Today’s we’re asking the box an internet question about Search Engine Optimization.

So exactly, what is SEO?Search engine optimization (often termed SEO) refers to the techniques you can use to get your site found on internet search engines. Search engines like Google, Yahoo and Bing are independent sites so in order to get that page-one ranking that we all aspire to, we need to understand what they want.

Essentially – there are two parts to optimizing your site – Off page and on page.

Social Media Snapshot: Pinterest for Business

According to Pinterest.com...."Pinterest lets you organize and share all the beautiful things you find on the web. People use pinboards to plan their weddings, decorate their homes, and organize their favorite recipes." Users share visual images from the web by "pinning" them on to a series of virtual PinBoards.

It's All About Visual Connections!

So How to Get Started?
FIRST: Our first suggestion is to RESEARCH what your ideal client is pinning. Search the keywords and categories on the Pinterest Dashboard. Create your business boards with your ideal client in mind.
* Provide answers to their questions
* Feed their inspirations.
* Solve their problems.

Understanding the Superstitious is Smart Business

Friday the 13th is associated with many elements of superstition; black cats, spilled salt, broken mirrors...but business performance? Many would say no - but in fact, a reported 9 percent of Americans are superstitious about the ominous calendar day and studies show that $800 million to $900 million in business revenue is lost on days like today.

We know that baseball players are superstitious about their favorite bat or pair of socks but business men and women have their own 'lucky' traditions. Whether it's that favorite suit for an interview or reading their horoscope before selling stock - it may seem irrational but according to Stuart Vyse, professor of psychology at Connecticut College, these actions are understandable, especially in times of economic uncertainty.

Taking a Vacation from Your Business

It's summer time! It's hot and the kids are out of school which means its prime time for a vacation right? If you are a business owner or entrepreneur, taking a vacation from your business might be well deserved but tricky...even downright near impossible. But we believe in vacations and we believe in you so here's 5 ways to get a break from your business without sending it into a downward spiral.

1. Split Week Trips
Many self employed business owners complain that taking a whole week off adds more stress to the vacation because they are constantly checking email and voicemail. The solution might be splitting your time off between two weeks. For example: Taking off Thursday and Friday of one week and then Monday and Tuesday of the next. Most business owners can manage taking two business days off in a week because you have three days to cushion the blow. Use your first set of work days to prepare to be gone and then use the next week to catch up. This 'illusion' will also look better to vendors and clients because it doesn't 'feel' like you were gone very long.

Educate Your Customer - A Failsafe Marketing Strategy

It's a less publicized strategy but educating your customer is an effective marketing tool that should be a part of any business marketing plan. Marketing is an essential element of running a successful business and the key is to do it better than your competition. When creating your marketing strategy - especially for a small business - every dollar spent needs to produce!

Education is Your Foundation

Although many marketing guru's might spout that ROI and target audience are the main focus in your business strategy - educating your customer should be your centerpiece. Educating your client is one of the best ways to increase sales and turn one time sales into long lasting loyal customers. Many times, when people are considering buying a product - they know little about it which makes them less likely to buy on impulse. They don't know if the price is realistic, if the product is reliable, if the quality is an industry standard - this kind of uncertainty makes a customer feel uncomfortable about the purchase.

Social Media Snapshot: Twitter for Business

According to Twitter.com...."It took Twitter three years, two months and one day to reach our first billion Tweets. Today, there are over a billion Tweets sent every three days. These Tweets represent conversations related to almost any topic imaginable."

That's a lot of people talking!

So How will this help you?
• The conversations happening on Twitter offer businesses a wealth of information about current and potential customers.
• You can quickly and easily see what people are saying about your brand, your product, your competitors and industry in a few clicks. It's like having the world's largest focus group at your fingertips!
• It's REAL-TIME interaction - you can watch it happen or you can jump in there and get your brand involved in the marketplace...at NO COST!

What you NEED to KNOW...
There are a couple of things you should familiarize yourself with to safely navigate the Twitter universe...

140 CHARACTERS - its a magic number...and it's the maximum length for all tweets (aka messages)

MENTION - Precede a Twitter username with an @ symbol and they will be notified that you have mentioned them in your tweet. (Example: "We love our new client @susanjones")

RETWEET - When you want to share a tweet - click the retweet button below it to send it out to your followers. Again, people are notified when you retweet which helps establish camaraderie.

MESSAGE - Think of this as something similar to email. Privately tweet a message to a user with a DM or direct message.

HASHTAG - Hashtags (like Mentions with the @ symbol) involve a # symbol before a word or phrase (no spaces). Think of a hashtag as the them of your tweet. Users can click on a hashtag to find other tweets with the SAME hashtag. (Example: " Now offering an #extendedsale of 50% off")

Twitter is on the GO!
You might have noticed a lot of people walking around with these things called smart phones...no? Well mobile technology is a MAJOR craze that is changing how people connect with businesses. This means you NEED to be accessible in the mobile universe. One of the easiest ways is TWITTER!

• Twitter's mobile aplications make it easy for people to connect and read your tweets from their smart phone, tablet or blackberry.
• People can subscribe to INSTANTLY receive your tweets to their phone - very cool!
• Tweet from ANYWHERE - this means you can get your information out without sitting at your desk computer.

Need a Widget?
Twitter offers follow buttons and widgets that allow for live streaming of tweets right on your website. Once you place them on your site - you don't have to do a thing! Visitors will see what is happening right from your site on your twitter feed. This is great if you want to tweet during a live event or sale.

Promote your Tweets, Trends or Yourself
Twitter offers several options for advertising on Twitter. This is recent option for businesses so we recommend getting more familiar with Twitter advertising directly. Click here to check out their site.

Conclusion
If you're still not convinced that Twitter is a viable social media platform for your business - we have one final point to make. Twitter is all about REAL-TIME information which is something that search engines (Like Google, Bing, Yahoo & more) really LOVE! This means search engines will prioritize results from a website like Twitter over normal websites. Don't you want a piece of that action?

Qlixite will setup and manage your Twitter account for you

Should I hide my prices?

Pricing your product or service can be a tricky task for any business owner but once you do decide on that magic number - you have to put on your marketing hat and decide when to show it and when not to.

Reasons you might want to 'HIDE' your prices from initial 'investigators'...
• You want to build an initial strong desire and demonstrate affordability - this is where your marketing is focused on the features of your product or service to dazzle a prospective buyer with everything they'll enjoy from the purchase.
• You want to show how the personal value of the product or service is greater than just the price value - this is where your marketing is focused on the emotional value of the sale and addresses the needs your potential customer has.
• You want to change the potential client's perception of the price - sometimes referred to as 'price conditioning.' - it can be tough but price conditioning is an art companies like Audi, Tiffany and Co. and Ethan Allen have mastered. Customers of these businesses believe that the special nuances of products purchased from them are WORTH the additional cost. It's still a car, a diamond ring and a chair that does the same things as the ones you could get at Kia, Kmart or Walmart but their customers want to pay more because their perception of the price in terms of value is different.

Situations when you should NOT hide your prices...
• If your price is a competitive advantage - For example, if you are cheaper than your competitors, or you have a special offer that can make even the quick-glancer recognize it as a good price, then you might want to do the opposite and make your price more prominent.
• If your price is low enough that it could be considered an 'impulse buy', then you might want to leave it on display as normal.
• If you are unsure what to do - when in doubt, it is always better to show your prices or a price range than to make the mistake of hiding them because you haven't done your research.

Why you want to be careful at playing too much 'keep-away'...
It should be mentioned that hiding your price can be as simple as offering a new client special, a trial period or making a person click to another screen to see the price. In these cases - you are not eliminating the price from view entirely. However, we have come across several businesses who refuse to put any pricing on their websites or marketing.

We want to warn that this can be dangerous because people like to shop before they buy. If you aren't even willing to show a price range - people might overlook you because your competitor does show prices. You are also making it more work for a potential customer to buy from you because they have to contact you to even discern if they can afford you. Shoppers (on every level) want life to be easier - not complicated, and they definately don't want to spend extra time and energy if it isn't worth it.

So..."Should you hide your prices or not?"
There is no right or wrong answer but here's the real questions you should answer first:
• What do my competitors do?
• Why is it important to hide/show my prices?
• What would my customer want?
• What would I want if I was a customer?

Facebook Page Admins - New Roles

Facebook is an ever-changing forum of capabilities for business owners. In a interesting twist of events, admins of Facebook business pages now have tiers with different capabilities for each role. There are five different types of admin roles: Manager, Content Creator, Moderator, Advertiser, and Insights Analyst. Having the option of these different roles and responsibilities can be great tool for you, as an admin, and for your business page. Instead of all admins having the SAME options to create content, remove and invite other admins, and change Page settings - admins can split up the responsibilities. Think of the possibilities – different tasks for different roles.

Managers have the widest range of capabilities for the business page. Not only can they edit and create posts, but they can manage the Business Page’s admins, create ads, edit applications, and view the Business Page’s insights. It’s the most powerful tier of the five apps. All admins will begin as managers untilyou assign a different role.

Content Creators have all the functionalities of the Manager, except for being able to manage admin roles. Content Creators can post as the Page, respond to comments, and view insights.

Moderators are great for managing the business Page’s fan base by responding to Page comments, likes, and messages. Community managers can devote their precious time to interacting with what really drives a Page: its fan base. Interacting with a fan base is key and lending a personal touch to your posts in the form of responses to fans is invaluable in creating your brand as one that fans can really interact with.

Advertisers can create ads which will in turn drive fans to your business Page and hopefully become fans – perfect for a brand’s marketing team.

Insights Analysts are limited to viewing the business Page’s insights and interactions with fans. It’s ideal for someone who needs to learn the ins and outs of FB, such as an intern or a social media volunteer. It can be overwhelming to get thrown into FB’s admin panel, so let’s slowly wade in.

Facebook’s new admin roles allow admins to divide and conquer when it comes to managing the diverse elements of your Facebook Business Page.

Vehicle Advertising: Take Your Business on the Road

Advertising takes on many forms for a small business. You may try postcards, leads groups, ads in magazines or newspapers or of course - online advertising like Facebook or Google Ads. But there is definately an avenue of advertising that is affordable and wildly effective. What are we talking about?

Vehicle Advertising!

Imagine the usual traffic jam - whether it's on the highway or in line to drop of kids at school. Everyone sits, in their cars, trucks and even campers waiting for the car in front of them to move. They are almost begging for something to look at that is more exciting than the license plate cover ahead of them that says "I'd rather be..." Now, you might know exactly what we mean because you have been in this situation. One might think this is not the moment to advertise your business - but you'd be wrong!

Here's 5 Reasons Why

1. Impressions Galore

The Federal Highway Administration reports that a vehicle sporting an advertisement generate up to 23,000 impressions per day in a metro city. Now, maybe you don't live in a metro city but just think about how many cars you pass on your way to work, the grocery store, the bank, soccer practice and even on vacation. All of those trips in your vehicle are advertising oportunities for people to be exposed to your business.

2. It's Never NOT on Duty

Vehicle advertising works for you around the clock, every single day and night, 365 days a year for as long as you have it on your car. Whether you are driving or parked in a parking lot - your vehicle advertisement is a non-stop marketing machine working for you!

3. Stats Speak for Themselves

• 98% of Vehicle Advertising creates a positve image for the advertiser
• 97% of customers remember seeing a specific vehicle advertisiment of a business they buy from
• 96% of drivers and pedestrians say they notice words and pictures displayed on vehicles

4. Reach a Wide Demographic

Most American's (96%) spend time in a vehicle as either the driver or passenger at least 2-3 times per week. Many of us drive or ride in a car every day! This isn't an age, wealth or interest specific type of advertising. You can reach a vast number of people - all who could potentially be your next customer.

5. Cost Effective for You

Many kinds of advertising charge you for the length of time an ad runs and the quantity of people it (might) reach. While you pay for a vehicle advertisment in the beginning, you don't pay again! Many vehicle decals last for 2-5 years which means this initial cost spread out over this long span of time rates as a cost effective method of advertising.

There are many different kinds of vehicle advertising options - from decals to window graphics and more! While some are permanent (perfect for commercial vehicles) - others are easily removable and work great for your own personal car, truck or RV. Take the lead that even the big businesses employ and take your business on the road with vehicle advertising!

Online vs Traditional Advertising Methods

As the saying goes, "Nothing changes if nothing changes." However, if everything out there is changing except you - you can be you're getting left behind. The growth of online information technology has changed the landscape of business marketing. The internet has replaced or vastly altered traditional advertising mediums such as magazines, newspaper, radio and television. All of these once "print only" mediums have online versions. With a good strategy and market awareness; businesses can utilize the internet to achieve effective and cost efficient marketing. Below are a few comparisons drawn between online and traditional advertising.

Online Advertising is Targeted

Instead of wasting time and effort (as well as lots of money) to send out mass mailings and junk mail with low return on investment, businesses can allocate their money smarter and more efficiently with online advertising by targeting specific audiences who are actually searching for your business, product or service.

Tracking and Conversion

Here’s the big question - How many people have been exposed to your ads? It’s very difficult to measure the effectiveness of direct mail, newspaper and TV advertisements. Online advertising however, empowers businesses with powerful tracking tools that can measure the smallest details such as impressions, conversions and Return on Investment.

Entry-level and Ongoing Fees

Yellow page ads or a magazine ad placement can be very costly. Internet advertising has yet again empowered the users to control their budget by allowing various bidding methods and low initial fees. Due to the targeted nature of online advertising and the ability to track the effectiveness of ads, making instant adjustments to campaigns is much cheaper than non internet advertising mediums.

Internet Gives Businesses Control

The biggest advantage of Internet advertising is that it is the most powerful communication tool available. It can reach households and other businesses via computers, mobile phones and tablets. Rather than allocating your efforts on finding different mediums for various regions and audiences; you can focus on what you do best and let your clients come and find you by setting up targeted campaigns.

Better Branding

Any form of advertising helps in improving the branding, but online advertising stands a notch higher in effectiveness. Internet advertising can expose a small business to potential customers all over the world. When used for the right products and in the right way, it has the potential to reach more customers for less money than any other form of advertising.
Online advertising is a powerful tool for businesses to have in their marketing strategy to effectively get the word out and achieve their marketing goals.

Facebook in 5 Minutes - Go Viral

Today's Tip is centered on promoting your Facebook Business Page by creating posts that have the potential to 'go viral.' Social Media, especially Facebook, is like a party - you hear great gossip, interesting facts and funny stories.  Think about the items that go "viral" on the internet and they fall into these categories. When creating content for your FanPage use these same ideas. Rotate the posts so that they are changing. Your goal is always to "Connect."
 

Why Do People 'Share'?
People share stories on Facebook for the same reasons they gossip and talk in real life. It may sound daunting to consider what makes people promote a story or post but here are some reasons people click that infamous 'share' button...

• It helps us connect - we are always looking to strengthen relationships with people.
• It's useful - we all love to share a good deal or insight.
• It starts a conversation - people like knowing how others feel or think about a complicated or controversial topic (it helps them decide how they feel).
• It strikes an emotional chord - if you feel something deeply, its hard not to talk about it.
• It helps define us - this is like broadcasting all the layers of our identity to find others like us.
• It's funny - who doesn't want to share a good laugh?
• It makes us look smart - who doesn't want to look smart? Provide a benefit and people will pass it on.
• It makes us feel part of something bigger - this is especially important for philanthropic groups and causes.
• It's Juicy - If the information is surprising, interesting and cool - it's too good not to share. Pay attention within your niche to unique stuff that is being shared and use it to great your own viral opportunity.  

Time for Action

Check out your favorite forum for news, topics, videos, pictures and more and start a conversation on something going on right now. You may also want to subscribe to a blog or two to see what others are talking about. Share a post and then keep your ear to the ground for content that can help your posts go viral. This takes just a few minutes but it can improve your fan interaction tremendously.

Facebook in 5 Minutes in April from Qlixite

Everyday we will be posting fast and easy (& Free) ways to get more out of your Facebook Business page. Become a Fan so you don't miss out!

We are not affiliated with Facebook in anyway. All of these tips are based on our own knowledge and research of public resources

Facebook in 5 Minutes - Timely Posting

Today's Tip is centered on promoting your Facebook Business Page by creating posts that relate to what's happening in the world. Remember social media started as a way to share and be social. What do people like to talk about? The time honored and easy conversation starter if you have nothing else in common...the weather. Why is this? It's happening right now and everyone is affected by it. Now you don't have to always post about the weather - unless you really like to and I'm sure there are some meteorologist who would love these kinds of posts. So what else is going on in your world - in your fans' world?
 

What is Happening Yesterday, Today & Tomorrow?
You want people to visit your page and check back often because what you are posting is applicable to their lives NOW. Yes, we've talked about posting specials, coupons and blogs but there are also moments when you want to share and discuss items with more personality.

Here are some ideas:
• Hot news item - great especially if its local (if your fans are local too)
• Thought provoking picture - perfect way to get people talking (be sure to ask their thoughts)
• Trending viral video - people love to watch stuff
• An event or location - going somewhere this weekend? Ask people if they've gone or have any suggestions.
• Holidays and Observances

Don't Be Late!
There is a fine line when posting timely information. Basically, the line is this...if it's not happening "yesterday, today or tomorrow" consider WHY you are posting it. If you have an update or a new take on something old - that's great. You want people to believe your page and its content is updated and current. You don't want to arrive to the conversation late or run a topic into the ground.  

Time for Action

Check out your favorite forum for news, topics, videos, pictures and more and start a conversation on something going on right now. If you don't have time - upload a pic representative of Earth Day (coming up on Sunday) and create a post about appreciating the environment. This takes just a few minutes but it can improve your fan interaction.

Facebook in 5 Minutes in April from Qlixite

Everyday we will be posting fast and easy (& Free) ways to get more out of your Facebook Business page. Become a Fan so you don't miss out!

We are not affiliated with Facebook in anyway. All of these tips are based on our own knowledge and research of public resources

Facebook in 5 Minutes - Custom URL Username

Today's Tip is centered on promoting your Facebook Business Page by creating a Facebook custom URL- sometimes also known as a username. Having a specific username allows you to easily direct people to your page.
 

What is a Username?
Once you have 25 fans/likes - Facebook will allow you to specify a username.

Example: www.Facebook.com/Qlixite (This is the username for our page.)

Before we had 25 fans it was: http://www.facebook.com/pages/Qlixite/205650412815061

Can you see the difference? The first one is much easier to print on media and websites. Plus it's easier for people to remember and type in.

How to Set A Username?
This is really easy but remember - Facebook will not allow you to set your name until you have 25 fans. PLUS!!! You can NOT change it once you set it - so be sure you have spelled it correctly.
• Go to your admin panel of your Facebook business page
• Click on 'Manage'
• Click 'Edit Page'
• From the left side menu - click 'Basic Information'
• The 4th item from the top is username. If you have at least 25 fans, click 'Create Username'
• Type in the Name you want and check the availability. If you have a common name, it might be taken. Try a variation.

Tips:
• Remember to keep it short and easy to read/remember
• Capital letters are okay (It will not make a difference whether people actually type it with capitals) 
• Letters, Numbers or Periods (".") are allowed
• Username must contain at least one letter
• Usernames are NOT transferrable & cannot be changed
• Check out Facebook guidelines here

Time for Action

Go to your Facebook business page and if you have at least 25 fans - create a username. Then post it on your page so everyone knows how easy it is to find your page. This will be important for your branding materials and storefront displays.

If you don't have 25 fans - ask for help! Create a post that asks your fans to encourage their friends to 'Like' your page. You could also send an email out to your database telling them. This takes just a few minutes but it can improve your presence tremendously.

Facebook in 5 Minutes in April from Qlixite

Everyday we will be posting fast and easy (& Free) ways to get more out of your Facebook Business page. Become a Fan so you don't miss out!

We are not affiliated with Facebook in anyway. All of these tips are based on our own knowledge and research of public resources

Facebook in 5 Mintures - Get Recommended

Today's Tip is centered on promoting your Facebook Business Page by encouraging past customers to write a recommendation on your Facebook Business page.
 

What is a Recommendation?
When new people become fans of your page, Facebook will automatically ask if they want to write a recommendation however, this is a great venue to have past clients share their story. Recommendations are posted near the top of your timeline posts under 'Friends Who Like' & 'Recent Posts by Others'. These are short snippets that can offer valuable feedback to fans and potential fans.

How to Get Recommendations?
This is not rocket science. Most of the time it comes down to a cold, hard, fact - YOU HAVE TO ASK. Now, maybe you haven't asked because you are worried about what people will say. If you think there are areas that could be improved - improve them! If someone gives you negative feedback - listen! Follow up with them and implement changes. But more than likely people will have nice things to say and giving them a nudge is perfectly okay.

Time for Action

Go to your Facebook business page and create a post that asks for people to write a recommendation. You don't have to be pushy - just ask them to be honest. You might be surprised the things that people point out which will also give you insight into what is important to your fans. When someone does write a recommendation, be sure to say thank you! It only takes 5 minutes a day to improve your Facebook Business Presence.

Facebook in 5 Minutes in April from Qlixite

Everyday we will be posting fast and easy (& Free) ways to get more out of your Facebook Business page. Become a Fan so you don't miss out!

We are not affiliated with Facebook in anyway. All of these tips are based on our own knowledge and research of public resources

Facebook in 5 Minutes - Cover Pic 101

Today's Tip is centered on promoting your Facebook Business Page by creating a compelling cover pic that represents your business and meets Facebook's new Timeline guidelines.
 

What is a Cover Pic?
When Facebook changed all business pages to the new Timeline format, all pages now have the option for a large rectangle picture to display at the top the page. If you have not uploaded or chosen a picture as your cover - you probably see a blank space.

Dimensions - 851 x 315 pixels
Not sure what a pixel is? If you don't have a graphic artist who understands this form of measurement (you won't find it on any ruler), it measures about 2.75" x 1.0". This will seem very small so as long as you create a picture with this proportions, Facebook will shrink it when you up load the image.

Format - Its an Image
This should be a flattened graphic in a jpeg, png or tiff format. Text formats like MS Word are not going to be compatible. Click here if you need help.

New Policies - the Don'ts
Cover photos cannot include:
A. Price or purchase information , such as "40% Off" or "Download at our Website"
B. Contact information such as website address, email or other info that should be located in the "About" section
C. References to Facebook features or actions such as "Like" or "Share" or an arrow pointing from the cover photo to any of these features.
D. Calls to action such as "Get it now" or "Tell your friends."
Failure to adhere to these new policies could result in Facebook's removal of your page.

These are some big changes since many people used their profile pic to push visitors to 'like' them as well as promote sales. These functions can now be handled through a tab.

How to Make a Cover Pic Work for You?
This picture will represent your business in a large way. This is not the time to upload a pic of your dog or grandchild. This is the opportunity to BRAND your business or product. Most people will decide in 7 seconds whether they want to stay on a webpage. Your cover is your chance to HOOK them in.

Examples:
• Picture of your storefront or inside your store - take a GOOD pic. Not one that shows dirty floors and paint peeling. Draw attention to the assets of your business.
• Portfolio of Work - If you create, produce or build something, show it off!
• Behind the Scenes - Remember your fans want to believe that they get the inside scoop by being a fan of your business so let them in on the secrets. For example, if I was a chocolatier, I might show a pic of someone making an intricate piece of chocolate.
• Something that appeals to your fan's inner desires - If I owned an auto repair shop, I might show a pic of a winding open road with a statment because I know my fans would rather be driving carefree than having their wheels in the shop. My statement plays into the idea that my business will get them back on the road.
• An image and statment reflecting your company mission - If you excel at service, broadcast it here. How can you sum up your business in a compelling sentence and picture that makes people take notice?

Time for Action

Take a moment to creat your cover picture. This is not set in stone. You can change it every day if you want though we recommend once a quarter or monthly as needed when timely. When you have your image, go to your business page and hover on your cover pic  - a box will pop up that says 'Change Cover'. Most of the time you will choose to 'Upload Photo'. You may have to reposition your image but one you save it - you're done! It only takes 5 minutes but the impressions can last much longer!

Facebook in 5 Minutes in April from Qlixite

Everyday we will be posting fast and easy (& Free) ways to get more out of your Facebook Business page. Become a Fan so you don't miss out!

We are not affiliated with Facebook in anyway. All of these tips are based on our own knowledge and research of public resources

Facebook in 5 Minutes - Post an Event

Today's Tip is centered on promoting your Facebook Business Page by creating a formal 'Event' using Facebook's create an Event tool. By utilizing this tool (as opposed to just listing the event date in your post), you can select guests, add a picture and allow people to RSVP.
 

What Qualifies as An Event?
Events can really be anything you want! If it is date and time specific, you could make an event to draw attention from fans.
Examples:
• Open House
• Product Debut
• Office Party
• Friends and Family Savings
• Local Event or Trade Show

How to Create an Event?
• Go to your business facebook page
• In the Status bar (where you normally create a post - click on 'Event, Milestone +'
• Click on 'Event' - a new screen will open
• Type an Event Name - make it clear, catchy and memorable
• Specify date, start and end times
• Type a location - you can add a street address
• Type details to explain more about the event. Remember you are 'selling' why someone would want to attend or tune in to your event so be brief but answer the questions attendees might have.
• You can select guests - you fans will automatically be notified of your event so this allows you the option to select personal friends who might not yet be a fan of your page.
• Choose whether you want the guest list to be shown on your event page. This can be positive if you believe your fans know one another but it can be detrimental if people decide not to attend because they're aren't sure if they will know anyone at the event.
• Allowing non-admins to write on the wall means people can post on this event wall specifically. This is a great option in case people have questions about this event. If this is a reoccuring event, you can encourage people to post their thoughts on the last event to incentivise more attendance this year.
• Finally - add a picture to promote your event. Three words...People-love-pictures. Again, this is all about incentivising people to attend - so give them what they want!

Time for Action

This can be tough because you might not have an event coming up...then again, maybe you do! Will you attend any expos, fairs or trade shows as your business? Is there a big sale coming up? Take a moment to think about what you could broadcast to your fans. If you don't have anything yet - post "Happy Monday!" on your wall and take your five minutes to brainstorm an event for your fans. Be sure to give people a couple of weeks notice of an event. Too far in advance, unless reservations are required, will result in people forgetting about your event. Events are a great way to reinforce that it pays to be a fan of your page. It only takes 5 minutes!

Facebook in 5 Minutes in April from Qlixite

Everyday we will be posting fast and easy (& Free) ways to get more out of your Facebook Business page. Become a Fan so you don't miss out!

We are not affiliated with Facebook in anyway. All of these tips are based on our own knowledge and research of public resources

Facebook in 5 Minutes - Fan of the Month

Today's Tip is centered on promoting your Facebook Business Page by rewarding your most active fans by declaring a Fan of the Month. We mentioned in one of our earlier tips, that fans of your Facebook business page want to feel special. They get first notice of coupons or even exclusive discounts by being a fan of your business. But today we're suggesting you take it a step further. Reward your most loyal and interactive fans by declaring them 'Fan of the Month'.
 

Why Do It?
You want people to interact on your Facebook business page by posting comments, recommending your page to friends and writing referrals. Social media is about sharing - so you want your fans to do some of the leg-work of getting your name out to people they know. (Hint: Most people trust a referral by a friend versus a commercial or advertisment)

Why Will My Fans Care?
Because you are going to give your fan of the month a super great deal. It's just for them - no one else. Obviously the better the deal is - the more likely people will want to earn it. Again, make sure you think about what all of your fans might be interested in - not just what you want to sell.
Examples of Super Great Deals:
• $10, $25 or $50 Gift card - whatever fits in your budget
• Movie tickets
• Free choice of select items from your store - give them variety
• Gas Card
• Use your imagination! 

Who Do I Pick?
Create a checklist for what you will look for in your Fan of the Month...Here's an example.
• How many comments have they posted?
• Have they written a referral?
• Did they share any of my posts?
• Have they purchased from me? (be careful not to make this the sole factor of who you pick) Remember, I might not be a customer but I have friends who could be.

When you choose a winner - make a BIG DEAL about it on your page. You could create a tab that features the winner's profile picture and what they won. (You will need web help if you don't know how to create a tab - it must be hosted on a website. Call us if you have questions 800-596-6218). A tab is visible all the time, so it would continue to show off how your reward your fans. Choose your Fan of the Month on the same day each month so people know when to look for it.

Time for Action

Now is the time - don't put it off until later - take 5 minutes or less to create a post announcing your "Fan of the Month" offer. Be sure to tell people what you are looking for (ie: items from the check list) and tell them what the lucky fan will win. Then Pin it to the top of your business page. Be sure to repeat this post every month or every other week so that fans get a reminder and new fans know about the offer. It only takes 5 minutes!

Facebook in 5 Minutes in April from Qlixite

Everyday we will be posting fast and easy (& Free) ways to get more out of your Facebook Business page. Become a Fan so you don't miss out!

We are not affiliated with Facebook in anyway. All of these tips are based on our own knowledge and research of public resources

Facebook in 5 Minutes - Post with Personality

Today's Tip is centered on promoting your Facebook Business Page by including your own personality into your posting. Social media started as a venue to share personal experiences and preferences. Being a small business owner, much of your business depends on you so if your posts are sterile and solely sales related - your fans never develop a relationship with you.
 

Getting Personal
Most business pages post about products and services as well as helpful information. We encourage you to include a picture or quote that integrates personality into your page. This will also help stimulate your fans to interact with your posts.
Examples:
• Picture of your staff - could even be a goofy pose
• Picture from a local event you attended personally or as a business.
• Favorite quote
• Reiterate your mission statement (keep it to just a sentence or two)
• Personal success or milestone (ie: Finished a marathon, turned 50 or caught a huge fish)

Beware of TMI (Too Much Information)
Occasionally, we see businesses get too personal on their business page. It's okay to post 25 pictures of your new grandkid on your personal Facebook page but not so professional on your fan page. It's okay to mention that you will be traveling but refrain from telling everyone that your sick and contageous. Remember, everything you do is 'Sales'. Always take a mental accounting of how a new or current client could interpret your post. Will it make you look good or bad?

We recommend avoiding posts that...
• Are political or overly religions - your fans may not agree with you and this could alienate them.
• Reference bodily functions - aside from mentioning how you spit out your soda when you won the lottery, most of us don't want these kinds of details.
• Are long 'journal-type' entries - if it relates to business, then write a blog and post a link. If it's about what you did that day, keep it on your personal page. 
• Are depressing - Yes, the economy is tough and business might be slow but this will NOT help your business. Always make your fans believe your products and services are in demand.

Time for Action

Now is the time - don't put it off until later - take 5 minutes or less to post a picture, mission statement or quote that adds personality to your business page. It only takes 5 minutes!

Facebook in 5 Minutes in April from Qlixite

Everyday we will be posting fast and easy (& Free) ways to get more out of your Facebook Business page. Become a Fan so you don't miss out!

We are not affiliated with Facebook in anyway. All of these tips are based on our own knowledge and research of public resources