Are You A “Facebook Fail”?

• December 29th

  In 2012 Social Media’s rise will continue and as a consultant to several businesses – large and small, I’m always intrigued as what business owners and marketers want to “offer” through social mediums.

  The temptation to sell is always there and up front, in a buyers market, we have to be thinking more about “relationships”, “value”, “positioning” and “offers” when we think about social media.  Once you have these four pillars bedded down, then the odd bit of promotion is far more acceptable to your fans and connections.

  This week I read a great article from Steve Olenski from SocialMediaToday and he presented research on what it is that consumers actually expect to receive when they engage with business or brands through Facebook (and social media).  The results are shown below.

  Marketers and business owners, utilising Facebook were asked “Why do you think fans engage with your Facebook Business Page?”

  
  

  Then consumers were asked “Why do you connect with Facebook and other social mediums” – the answers were surprising…. to marketers and business owners…. they got a big fat FAIL on THEIR understanding of reasons for fan engagement!

  

  Finally, consumers were asked “how will you continue to use social media in 2012” and the results were as follows:

  

  So what does all this mean to You?  Social media is an important cog in your marketing strategy for 2012 and it also means that you need to be thinking about your offering.  Maybe it will be some sort of a “(Facebook) Friends with Benefits” program or incentives that are only offered to fans engaged on Facebook with your business.

  Whatever it is, ensure you have a plan and for many clients with whom we work we will be encouraging them to develop new offerings that are ONLY for Facebook (and social media) Fans – this in itself is enticing to your market, when you are closing your marketing loop and ensuring that the business’ on and offline marketing drive each other forward.

  May 2012 be socially prosperous for you and that you are completely compliant and do not violate Facebook’s onerous Terms and Conditions, when it comes to offering Facebook Specials and programs!

  Turning social media into business profits.

  Meredith

  Share