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