Is Facebook for you?

Some laud Facebook for building relationships, dialoguing, networking with peers and generating awareness, while others feel its function is solely personal. How do you decide if a Facebook page is right for your business? Here are a few things to consider:

Be ready to target: There are close to 50 million Facebook users out there, two thirds of which are 18-34, with the 35-54 group growing quickly behind. With such a vast audience, make sure your strategy is targeted so you are reaching the right people.

Your page is not an internet highway billboard: A Facebook page is not intended to act as online ad space, generate traffic to your website, or pitch your business. If your intention is to sell, then you may want to consider Facebook’s paid advertising options.

What will you say? Social networking is about building and facilitating a customer community. If you decide to take the leap, be sure to provide relevant content and engage and interact with your audience through conversations.

North Star created a Facebook page for DEM/Division of Agriculture’s Get Fresh. Buy Local. campaign which includes important links, events, and information on local farmers markets and farm stands. The campaign has already built a fan base of 140 people in two weeks, helping to build awareness for RI farms and support for the local economy.