Facebook - Is it a powerful free marketing tool or a waste of time?
That was the question asked, and answered, at a seminar sponsored jointly by Bruce Martin and Associates, a local accounting firm, and Clearwater and District Chamber of Commerce.
Presenter Shane Jensen, grandson of former pioneers to the area James and Isobel MacLennan of Clearwater, enlightened the group of over 20 interested business owners attending the seminar on Tuesday, March 29, at the Wells Gray Inn Convention Room.
He asked, “Have you ever considered marketing your business through social networking such as Facebook?” A show of hands told him that most were not aware that Facebook could do this. Most thought it was just a social thing to keep in contact with family and friends. Some thought it was for wimps and previously had no interest.
Jensen said that millions of people log into Facebook every morning to check for messages from family and friends. He explained if you add friends to your page, then these friends add more friends and soon you have possibly 500 to 1,000 or more people who could be your prime contacts through this social networking for the product you may be selling or providing.
He explained that Facebook could be a powerful tool, in addition to your personal website, for creating value for you and your business. People get to know you on Facebook, become your friend, and recommend you and your business to others. The ripple effect could be and usually is amazing.
With some 500 million users, Facebook represents a massive audience, both locally and beyond, for your business. It has a greater value in a small community if you stay open and creative. Even if your marketing dollars are few, it moves your momentum from “Push to Pull.”
Businesses wishing to harness the power of “Pull” need to build and deepen customer relationships and engage in the art of meaningful conversation. This can be done through the social networking media of Facebook.
To sell your service or product, the customer needs to “know you, like you and finally trust you.” This will “Pull” customers to you.
A follow up seminar will be held at a time and place to be determined.
– Submitted by Ann Krawec
