Social Media Networks Part 3: Facebook
When it comes to Social Media Networking, the first outlet that comes to my mind (and presumably most others’ too) is Facebook - the Social Media Godfather. Why has Facebook become such a popular choice for people of all ages, races and places? Well, it certainly isn’t only due to the fun factor. Through Facebook you can keep in touch with friends and relatives, connect with new people to share your ideas and business interests, or even discover and join various groups of like-minded users – be it for real estate, or some personal endeavour. With over 400 million active users, and with those over the age of 35 being the fastest growing demographic, there is a vast market waiting to be tapped.
So the real question is… what are you doing to make your presence known?
For Agents: Fan Pages - Worth an Hour a Week of My Time?
If you want to build an online presence, the answer is a resounding yes. Facebook is one of the best places to start gaining virtual ground on your competitors. You may already have a personal profile; if so, you’re already a step ahead of the game. If not, don’t worry, but don’t wait another day! Head on over to the sign up page and complete the registration – it’s free and easy! Now that you’ve got a personal profile, it is time to setup a Fan page. What is a Fan page? Well it is the only authorized means through Facebook which you can advertise a business, or more specifically, your services as a Realtor. So let’s get started on making one!
First, login to your Facebook account. Next visit the Create a Facebook Page. Here is an example of a filled out sign-up sheet:
After you’ve created your Fan page, you may notice that it is nearly identical to a Personal Page; so if you already have firsthand experience using Facebook on a personal level, you’ll already be versed with the same tools and options that a Fan page has available. Your Wall will be the primary section for sharing information, photos, videos, links, and also the latest news on upcoming events (open house dates and times!).
Want to see some completed Fan pages?
Check Out The Human Project
Become a true Facebook Fan
What can you do after creating a profile?
Use the Publisher - to post photos, videos, events, links – this will be one of your primary tools for posting content.
Add your listings – create photo albums that showcase your listings, be sure to include the same pictures as on the MLS. Include descriptions that will engage your audience. Refer back to the listing page on your website.
Get Fans – although the purpose of a Fan page is to differentiate between your business and personal lives on Facebook, there is usually a significant amount of crossover. Typically family and friends will also join your Fan page, helping you build that ever-important base level of followers. From there it is vital to branch out, networking and engaging in conversations with others so as to show why you are ‘worthy’ of being followed.
Always ask yourself, “Why would someone be my Fan?” If you cannot justify an answer, than you should be rethinking your approach and purpose. Have a definite major purpose; set goals and deadlines to meet that will help you work toward accomplishing that end result of being “Fan-worthy”.
Post Notifications – got a new listing? Notify your followers! Keep them alert and up-to-date with important details on your latest listings. A wandering eye might be the one to eventually buy the property. You can also post notifications about open houses, new building developments, or even recent sales to showcase that you’re a tried-and-true Realtor.
Use Apps! – There are literally hundreds of applications that you can use to enhance your Fan page to make it more interactive and user-friendly. Remember that by adding a personal touch, it can go a long way in creating ‘online curb appeal’ for your viewers. Now these services usually come at an additional fee, but can be worth the cost if used correctly. By using services such as Wildfire’s Promotion Builder app, you can setup promotional campaigns – sweepstakes, voting contests, favourite picks, etc. that will attract viewers by offering them a chance to win something; in return you will gain their ever-important contact information.
Other useful Apps to check out - Testimonials, Constant Contact
Facebook Ads - Another convenient way to appeal to your target market is through Facebook’s Pay per Click (PPC) program. Creating an ad is easy to do, and can be completed in less than 10 minutes. By establishing predefined criteria such as location and age range, or level of education and languages spoken, you are target marketing; create a niche market for yourself that will increase results and save on advertising costs. You can even define connections – targeting users who or who do not follow specific pages, groups or events.
Looking for ways to improve your ads? Be sure to include a captivating image and tagline. This will help draw-in a wondering eye while they are checking the latest status updates. Want more information? Visit Facebook’s Advertising Page – be sure to checkout the Step by Step section for a detailed walkthrough on how to create an ad.
Connect Blog – Recently posted a fascinating article on how to properly stage a house for quick sale? Time to share it! By posting a Status update with an enticing message about the article and link back to it, you’ll help draw traffic back to your blog site. Don’t have time to be posting Status updates for each new blog entry? Not a problem! Take advantage of the free RSS (really simple syndication) applications such as SocialRSS and RSS Graffiti.
Stayed Tuned - More to Come on... Facebook Fan Page vs. a Personal Page - Which Should You Use?
Authored By: Bryan Coughlin, Client Relations