A weekly look at Wyoming business questions from the Wyoming Small Business Development Center, part of WyomingEntrepreneur.Biz, a collection of business assistance programs at the University of Wyoming.
By Debbie Gorski, Small Business Community Director
"Is it easy to create a Facebook page for my business?" Vickie, Sheridan
Actually it is easy, but there are many issues to consider. I will only provide an overview because many resources are available that cover every aspect related to Facebook.
First, creating a Facebook page is free! If you already have a personal account it is simple. Several approaches are available and one of the easiest is to visit a page. Located near the bottom of a page is a link to "Create a Page for My Business." The next decision is to choose a category for your personal business page -- local; brand, product or organization; artist, band or public figure. Consider carefully, because you cannot change your decision later.
Next consider a page name. The name you choose will appear as the title for your page and will appear on all wall posts, comments, etc. Most likely you already understand the importance of a name and logos for branding purposes. Next, check the box that you are the official representative of this business and you have the opportunity to read/review the Facebook terms, which I recommend you read.
Add content to your page. Be sure to add your business logo or photo, complete the "Information" categories, such as your Web site, URL, location, phone number, etc. Simply click "Publish this Page"" when you are ready to go "global." You can always edit information later.
Once your page is live, post a message on your wall and continue to provide activity on a regular basis. If you use Twitter or have a blog, you want these messages to feed into your Facebook page as well. Post information that invites others to comment. Posts should contain intriguing, interesting information. Be sure to respond to comments. The page is your opportunity to build relationships with clients and potential clients.
This is just the beginning. As you get more involved with your page, more questions will arise. For now you should be focusing on getting the word out about the page. Whereas people "friend" your personal account, you want people to "like" your page. For advanced assistance, I recommend using Facebook's Help Center and to "like" their page (http://www.facebook.com/FacebookPages), where helpful information is available. There are numerous books and information on the Internet.
A blog version of this article and an opportunity to post comments is available at
http://www.wyomingentrepreneur.typepad.com/blog/.
The WSBDC is a partnership of the U.S. Small Business Administration, the Wyoming Business Council and the University of Wyoming. To ask a question, call 1-800-348-5194, e-mail wsbdc@uwyo.edu or write 1000 E. University Ave., Dept. 3922, Laramie, Wyo. 82071-3922.
