Facebook Vs Websites
Posted on Oct 7, 2011 by Valerie Touchstone
An interesting debate regarding Facebook and websites is emerging. The core issue is if a small business needs both a website and a Facebook account. I’m hearing from businesses who are opting for a Facebook only path who think perhaps it is redundant to have both, more expensive to have both and that it takes more work to keep both updated.
From a marketing perspective, my perspective is that there is not a cookie-cutter answer. I do think in the case of a small retail start up, for example, beginning with Facebook only might be a cost-effective way to have an online presence…with the caveat that someone takes the time to understand how to set up a business on FB and how to effectively. There are a lot resources and guidelines to help and taking the time to understand the best ways to interact in this medium will allow you to maximize your efforts.
However, there are core differences between FB and websites that are important to understand. People seeking information about the kinds of services offered by a company are typically either going to conduct a search using key words if they don’t know your company’s name; depending upon the industry,they may use the company name, brand name and location or a staff person’s name. The best way to reach people and provide them with the information they are seeking is via a website. And, with the advent of really great template sites, small businesses can afford to have a nice site with the basics plus a good bit more such as photo galleries, videos and a blog.
In addition to basic information, Facebook is very useful for consumer engagement, creating two-way communication and building loyalty. Keeping customers interested and engaged is always important – and in our current economy, it is critical. However, even active users can miss a post from your business; so just because you post something doesn’t mean everyone will see the post, the coupon, the fun survey or nifty special alert. I know on my personal FB account, I go from interacting frequently to periods of inactivity simply based on my schedule. And, I don’t think Facebook is a solution for every business; in fact, there are small businesses in certain industries that won’t derive enough benefit from a Facebook account to allocate the required time and resources to its upkeep.
Understanding the function of each tool, how your audience interacts with both tools, how potential customers find your business and having specific reasons for having either a website or Facebook are first steps in determining if you need just one option or if both tools will help you communicate with your audiences.
Tagged: website, web site, website design, social media, facebook, marketing
Comments
Yeah, that's the tkicet, sir or ma'am
Kncoekd my socks off with knowledge!
CRmFbX <a href="http://ptllecgfnjbr.com/">ptllecgfnjbr</a>
LvQ9NW , [url=http://sxmquixejcbx.com/]sxmquixejcbx[/url], [link=http://eoiryzwpaqwd.com/]eoiryzwpaqwd[/link], http://zgpvandxsskv.com/