Dos and Don'ts on What to Post on a Facebook Business Fan Page

In this article I’m going to focus on Dos and Don’ts to post on your Facebook Fan business page.  We all want more ‘Likes’ on our Fan Page, because with more ‘Likes’ means more people see our content thus our Fan base will grow organically.
 

 Do’s and Don’ts

1.     Don’t treat your Business Facebook Fan Page like your own personal page.

o   Do Create a Facebook content strategy, so you know your themes and topics you will post.  Keep them themed, branded, and always have your consumer in mind.

2.     Don’t persistently post your opinions about controversial topics.  

o   Do Keep your strong opinions off your Business Fan Page, i.e. politics, religion, etc.  Posting content to get your Fans talking, and adding a bit of passion, can increase engagement. Take it too far, and you’re going to lose Likes.

3.     Don’t talk about yourself.  How long do you hang out with people who only talk about themselves?  Not long, right?  Your Fans aren’t going to ‘Like’ you for long if you only talk about your business and products, either.

o   Do get your fans talking about you.  Post informative content.  Educate your consumer with practical tips.

4.     Don’t post one way ‘push’ marketing tactics and overly salesy updates and expect your fans to buy, buy, buy.  You are not printing an ad in a newspaper, you are interacting with your Fans.

o   Do Use engagement tactics, i.e. asking questions, doing surveys, running contests, posting interactive content, etc.

5.     Don’t post long content.  Long, wordy content on Facebook does not get read.   

o   Do Try to make your Facebook updates about the length of a Twitter update.

Limit your word count, and include simple Calls to Action (CTA).  Or use the ‘Notes’ section or write a blog and post a link to your blog post.

6.     Don’t post unrelated content.  Your fans expect to get relevant content from you.  i.e. if you are a coffee shop, don’t start posting beauty tips. 

o   Do Target your content to connect with your genuine customer.
 

7.     Don’t link to the wrong website(s). 

o   Do checkout and research what you are linking to and correct any mistakes ASAP.  Make sure sites you are linking to are trustworthy.  Acknowledge mistakes.

8.     Don’t ignore negative comments.

o   Do monitor your Fan Page and respond to both positive and negative comments.   Respond to the comments in helpful and personable manner – don’t auto-respond, or spew the same script to every comment.  Use comments as an opportunity to show you are a company that listens.

9.     Don’t get in a posting rut  

o   Do integrate how and what you post and the time your post.  Use other types of media.  Change it up with photos, links to articles, videos, etc.

10.  Don’t beg for ‘Likes’ on Facebook.  It is a big no no.  When you first set up your page, it is perfectly acceptable to invite all your friends to ‘Like’ your page.  Or when you’re reaching a milestone, i.e. say you are 10 away from reaching 500 ‘Likes.’

o   Make sure your content is good quality, and keep your target market in mind when posting.  Make your posts engaging and interactive and the ‘Likes’ will come organically.

You’ve worked hard to gain a following.  Pay attention to their Likes and dislikes.  Keep your Facebook posts authentic, engaging, readable and edited!  Review your analytics to see what your Fans respond to and post more of what they Like.  Your Fan page will then get more ‘Likes’ without your having to ask. 

Your feedback and comments are welcomed and appreciated.  Tell us what you would add to the Dos and Don’t list.  

The majority of this article was written by Krista Bunskoek @ Wishpond - Read more at http://www.business2community.com/facebook/9-mistakes-make-facebook-fans-unlike-0635011#CD1Vkm5W28XpXixR.99
 

Want ideas on what to post?  Here is a list of 50 suggestions of things to post on your Facebook Fan Page.  Just remember to keep your posts relevant to your business - http://www.mybusinesspresence.com/what-to-post-on-a-facebook-fan-page/

 Happy posting,

Annette

Painted Lady Enterprises

www.PaintedLadyEnterprises.com

'"Helping You and Your Business Look Good"

 
  

 

What is a Virtual Assistant?

What does a Chiropractor, a Spa, a holistic health consultant, and a hat shop owner have in common?   

Answer:  They use a Virtual Assistant

What is a Virtual Assistant?

Per Wikipedia - A Virtual Assistant (typically abbreviated to VA, also called a virtual office assistant) is generally professional administrative, technical, or creative (social) assistance to clients remotely from a home office.  Because virtual assistants are independent contractors rather than employees, clients are not responsible for any employee-related taxes, insurance or benefits, except in the context that those indirect expenses are included in the VA's fees.  Clients also avoid the logistical problem of providing extra office space, equipment or supplies.  Clients pay for 100% productive work, and can work with Virtual Assistants, individually, or in multi-VA firms to meet their exact needs.  Virtual Assistants usually work for other small businesses, but can also support busy executives.  It is estimated that there are as few as 5,000-10,000 or as many as 25,000 virtual assistants worldwide.  

Common modes of communication and data delivery include the Internet, e-mail, and phone-call conferences, online work spaces, and fax machine. Increasingly Virtual Assistants are utilizing technology such as Skype as well as Google Voice.  Professionals in this business work on a contractual basis and a long-lasting cooperation is standard.    

Virtual Assistants provide a wide range of products and services. The virtual industry has changed substantially as it attracts others new to the field.  Virtual Assistants come from a variety of business backgrounds, but most have several years experience earned in the "real" (non-virtual) business world.

Given the definition above, a Virtual Assistant can take on many tasks for a busy business person so that they can do what they do best.  For example, a Sales person and/or business owner who needs to be networking, prospecting, and making presentations, may not have the time, patience, inclination, skills, etc. to do consistent marketing.  This is the specialty of Painted Lady Enterprises, i.e. Relationship Marketing.  What is Relationship Marketing?  Relationship Marketing is building a relationship with a prospect and/or keeping in touch with a client over time, so that when they need products / services, or would like to make a referral, the business that is  ‘Top of Mind’ will be the one whom they have heard from on a consistent and regular basis.  The means of communication could be through social media, periodic newsletters, videos, email marketing, direct mail, etc. 
So for a struggling business person who trying to do it all themselves, they might want to consider looking into advantages of letting someone else do those tasks that seem to be overwhelming. 

Recently I attended a presentation on productivity, and the example was given from the book, The Four Day Work Week, on the 80/20 rule.  The example given was that businesses only spend 20 percent of their time doing what increases the bottom line, however they spend 80% of the time on all the other tasks pertaining to their business.  The recommendation is to hire those experts who can do that other 80%, thus giving back the time to concentrate on the bottom line.

There are many Virtual Assistants who specialize in many areas.  What is the 80% that you would like someone else to do for your business?  Your comments and feedback are welcomed and appreciated.

In appreciation,
Annette
Painted Lady Enterprises
"Helping You and Your Business Look Good"

Memorable Service

They say that 68% of customers leave due to 'perceived indifference.'  I've been musing over this for the past week.  Yesterday, while sitting in traffic I saw this on a service van, "We make our customer service a memorable experience."  It got me to thinking about the different service experiences I've had lately with the companies, businesses, and people I do business with.  I find that I want to do business with those who show that they genuinely want and care about me and my business.  Not just take it for granted that just because I've always done business with a certain company/business, that I will continue to do so. 

So here are some of my observations of 'Memorable Service:'

• Willing to order a product I want and keep it in stock
• Knowing me by name when I walk in the store and/or a least recognizing me at check out as a frequent customer.
• Offering to be of help.  Going to look for an item if there is none on the shelf, instead' of saying, 'if it's not on the shelf we don't have it.'
• Going beyond what is expected, i.e. taking me to the item I'm looking for, instead of just telling me where it is suppose to be.
• Attention to details.  For example, my husband surprised me with an article of clothing recently, but I needed to send back for a different size.  It was great that I didn't have to pay to ship it back to exchange it, but when the new item came, it was still the wrong size.  So, it took more time to get their mistake corrected.
• Providing little extras.  More than what is expected.  For example my nail salon offers me a beverage.  Gives mini shoulder rubs, hot towels, hand and forearm massage. 
• Showing concern.  Not just asking how are you doing, but engaging in meaningful conversation.
• Enjoy what they do.  If they don't like what they are doing, then more than likely it shows in everything  they do and they are going to do the least amount they can to get by.

So, what it your definition of 'Memorable Service?'  What do you want from those you spend your money with? 

And by all means, please express your gratitude to those who do go the extra mile and provide that 'Memorable Service.'  They need to hear it so that they know that someone appreciates all they do.  Take that extra time to say Thank You, send an email to them and their supervisor, and/or send a Thank You card.  Your Thank You might be the only recognition they receive.

In gratitude,
Annette
www.PaintedLadyEnterprises.com

Summer Business Boosting Tips

How does Summer affect your business?  Do you have a slowdown in sales?   

Some people just assume that business is just not going to be very good during the summer months.  But that doesn't have to be the case.  Like everything else, if you think it's so, it is.

While Summer may be a lazy time for some, we can change our frame of mind to "Let's make hay while the sun shines."   

Here are some tips to boost Summer business:

1. Keep in Touch - This could not be more important than now.  Touch base with all your client power base, i.e. those clients that continue to use your services and refer you.  See how you can be of help to them during the summer months.   

2.  Follow up - Target those that aren't slowing down either during the summer.  Schedule appointments with prospective customers.   

3.  Focus on Marketing efforts - Attend networking meetings, distribute flyers, updating website / blog, post on social media, etc.

4.  Appreciation Marketing - Send a Thank You card to those long time customers.  Let them know how much you appreciate their business.  Perhaps sending a gift or offering a discount on their next order.    

5.  Go Beyond the call of duty - While other competitors relax during the summer months, ensure that your customer service is 'Top Notch' and above the norm.  Let your clients and prospects know that you are willing to make things happen and handle special needs.   

Make Summer Time your opportunity to shine.  By using these tips you are staying 'Top of Mind' with your clients and prospects.  You are letting them know, that even though it's Summer, you are still Open for Business. 

I hope this has been helpful.  Please share your Summer Business tips with us.  Your comments and suggestions are welcomed and appreciated.

Happy Summer Sales,
Annette

www.PaintedLadyEnterprises.com

Why Email Marketing?

Because personal one-to-one communication with your customers that's targeted and inspires conversions is hard to beat.

•  It's more personal than social media

• 66% of online consumers check their email account multiple times per day, with 13% of online consumers actually checking their email hourly or more frequently

• Makes it quick and easy to follow up, send newsletters, special offers, etc. 

• Email provides you the most direct line of communication for conversion to sales

• It's also amazingly cost-effective

• Good email content deepens your relationship with your audience, builds loyalty, & referrals

• Email inspires action - conversion rate for email was 3.19 percent, compared to 1.95 percent for search, and just .71 percent for social media

Keep in mind that people buy when they have a perceived need or want.  By continuously keeping in touch, you and your business will be 'Top of Mind' when they need your products or services or perhaps refer you to someone.

www.EmailMarketingMadeEZ.com

Why Constant Contact:

- The Leader in the industry
- Easy customizable templates
- Individualized training, help, support, & coaching
- Integration tools of social media, surveys, event
- Easy to use.  No Technical experience necessary
- Image editing & Storage
- Managing all your contacts in one place
- Easily import contacts from other databases
- Keeps lists current with automatic duplicate checks & unsubscribe removal
- Autoresponder
- Spam checker
- Tools to automate & grow your permission based list
- Real-time Reporting, tracking, & integration with Google Analytics

I am a Business Partner with Constant Contact.  I would be happy to help you get started using this amazing tool.  Contact me today and get signed up to try it for FREE for 60 days. 

www.EMailMarketingMadeEZ.com

Happy Emailing,

Annette
www.PaintedLadyEnterprises.com
"Helping You and Your Business Look Good" 

Staying Organized

I recently took part in a discussion with a group of other ladies on tips that help us stay organized.  

Here are the highlights of our discussion on Organization.  

• Use apps that are available for smart phones and IPad, i.e. check lists, To Do lists, etc.  Great for repetitive lists like groceries, packing, weekly reminders, etc.

• Use color coded bags or monogrammed bags for different businesses, meetings, crafts, projects, etc.

• Use color coded file folders.  I like to use Red for Urgent/Priority, Green for money matters, etc.

• Toodledo app was suggested to use as a task and note manager.  There is a free version.  It will organize your to-do list and notes, and make you more productive. You can use Toodledo as a standalone application, or you can synchronize with Toodledo.com, one of the most popular online task managers.  I have started using this and it is wonderful.  I have it synced to my IPhone and IPad.  The image used here is from the IPad app.  Here is the website - http://www.toodledo.com/info/iphone.php. 

• Book suggested – ‘Getting Things Done’ – available on Amazon - http://tinyurl.com/p5ml7gw

• Make a schedule.  Make an appointment with yourself.

• Work with Vertical files and stand up papers that you are working on.  Makes papers more visible and easier to find until completed.

• Hire someone to do the things that are not our strengths.  It was also suggested to contact NAPO, The National Association of Professional Organizers, they have people who are working on their accreditation and would be willing to do work with you for free.  Here is their website - www.napo.net

•  Speaking of NAPO, each of their Professional Organizers usually have their own speciality.  I subscribe to two newsletters from NAPO POs and get great tips from both.  You can find local organizers in your area on their website - www.napo.net

• I also subscribe to a daily ezine from Unclutterer.com, which provides great organizational tips. 

• Pinterest is another great place for organizing tips.  You can use the search feature to find specific ideas for organizing and you can subscribe to different boards.  Here is a link to my board on organizing -   Pinterest.com/paintedladyent/organization/

I hope this has been helpful.  Please share your organizing tips.

Happy Organizing,

Annette
www.PaintedLadyEnterprises.com
"Helping You and Your Business Look Good"

Social Media - 'It's about being social'

As I meet with small business owners about their social media, I'm often asked, 'How often should I post?'   To me there are no clear cut answers to that question.

Here is Wikipedia's definition of the word 'Social' -

The Wikipedia definition of Social - The term social refers to a characteristic of living organisms as applied to populations of humans and other animals. It always refers to the interaction of organisms with other organisms and to their collective co-existence, irrespective of whether they are aware of it or not, and irrespective of whether the interaction is voluntary or involuntary.

So, to me, being social means interacting with others.  It's not all about how often we post.  When planning a social media strategy for business, I advise the following:

1.  Post relevant information about your industry, i.e. links to articles, stats, humor, etc.  People crave information and if you are perceived as the person who is helpful and knows their industry they are more apt to turn to you when they need your services or to refer you.
2.  Plan time to read and interact with others, both individuals and businesses.  Like their posts.  Comment on their posts.  Share what is relevant.  It shows others that you are paying attention and you care.  This is important to developing the relationship.
3.  Limit direct posts about your business to 1 of about 4 to 5 informational posts.  Posting to much direct information about your business comes across as being a pushy sales person.
4.  Be conversational.  Ask questions.  Do a survey.  Get your readers/fans involved.
5.  To gain loyalty, build relationships, and to gain more followers, if appropriate, offer specials from time to time.  However, use caution.  Make it about your followers/fans and less about you and your business.

I like to think of 'Social Media' as an online networking.  We go to networking events to meet people, get to know them, build the relationship, and hopefully eventually do business with them.  So, it's not about how often we post, it's also about the interaction and relationship building.

I hope that you find this helpful.  Your views, comments, and insights are welcomed and appreciated.

In appreciation,
Annette

Getting and Keeping Loyal Customers

 

In order to build a relationship it’s important to stay in touch. This applies in our personal lives as well as business.  Just like we nurture a relationship with a new friend we want to nurture our relationship with prospects so they will become our new client.   In order to nurture that relationship, contact is necessary.   And What's more important the value that contact brings the prospect.

Not everyone we meet wants or needs our products or service….now.  But, if we stay in touch and offer value in our communication, perhaps that will change and/or the prospect will refer us when asked, ‘who do you know who sells…..’

Sometimes people just don’t respond to our time table. People are busy.  Life happens.  People forget. Our priorities are not their priorities.  Building relationships with people and trying to establish a helpful giving attitude will come back tenfold.

We can expand the ways we keep in touch which might include:  phone calls, one on ones,  post cards, letters, greeting cards, emails, audios, videos, etc.  Then mix up the forms of contact creating interest and anticipation and offering value.  Although we may have a lot of information of interest about our business, it is important in building a relationship that we take into consideration the interest of our prospect.  By notating their interests and following up with them with information shows that we do truly care about building the relationship.

Every business and sales person can benefit from relationship marketing.  By building the relationship and keeping in touch with clients is a great referral source. I refer to these clients as a “Golden Referral Source.”  If the sales person builds a solid relationship with their client, found them the perfect, home, car, etc., AND stays in touch with them over the years, they will receive referrals and more business from that client for years to come.

Some companies are cutting their prices to keep clients in today's economy.  If a company has a quality product, outstanding service, is dependable, and has built a solid relationship by staying in touch, then that customer is not going to stray just because they might save a few dollars. They realize that the relationship and service they have received is a better value.  

Here are some ways to stay in front of your clients.

• ·        Follow up with a phone call, offer industry information on a periodic basis   

•       Mailing them something personal not bulk or junk mail.

• ·        Personal visit to their place of business and not necessarily to make a sale

• ·        Be their business partner. Take a personal interest in their success.

• ·        Willingness to help even if there is no monetary gain now

Zig Ziglar says that if you help enough people to get what they want, you’ll get what you want.

Remember that it is more costly to find a new customer than it is to maintain and keep the ones we currently have.   If we maintain 5% of our current clientele we can double our business.  Because they will come back to us time and time again and will refer others to us.  

68% of clients leave because of perceived indifference.

Success is the sum of small efforts, repeated day in and day out.  ~ Robert Collier

In appreciation,

The Painted Lady