With Jonathan Christian (follow on Twitter: @jdgem)
We just spent an amazing five days in what they call the “Happiest place of Earth.” We were entertained, soaked, baked and stimulated by the power of one man’s dream. I read an article on how sad it was that Walt Disney didn’t live to see the opening of Epcot Park – but the profound response to the reporter was – “Oh but he did – he’s seen this for years.” I have nothing but respect for Walt’s powerful imagination, and his determination to see things through with excellence. I wonder what we would have achieved in our Social Media Generation? (Would Walt Disney have used Facebook?).
What? We’re in an era like none before. We have endless knowledge at our fingertips – any time of the day or night. But for those of us in business (whether we run a theme park or a shoe store), the real challenge these days lies in making sure that prospective customers can find our products and services in this new information maze.
Why? While visiting Epcot Park, all I had with me was my Blackberry, which I turned on twice a day to keep in touch with email. When we returned to our hotel we were back in free Wifi land and the children were busy posting photographs on Facebook and updating their status, and I got to thinking about the Facebook phenomenon (“is it really just for kids?”). Our Social Media Challenge has been all about how we can use Social Media for business development, and here’s what I now know for sure – one of the best ways to get your message out and grow your business is by receiving a trusted referral – and there’s no better platform than Facebook. I have also learned that the more platforms we use – Twitter, blogging, Meetup, LinkedIn and (of course) your website and email – the better.
How? Facebook has recently made it much easier to create a business page for your products and services. I probably create a couple every week for clients. All you need is your own personal page to start with – then follow these steps:
1. Go to the Account tab and click on the help centre
2. Click on the flag symbol – Pages for businesses
3. Click on the “How can I create a Page” and then click the here button
4. Then recommend to your friends and followers that they “like” your page (which they do by clicking on the
Thumbs-up symbol).
Tipzntrix: If you haven’t done this already – why not start today! You can leave the page unpublished until you’re ready with photographs and details for a day or so. I’m going to create a page for the beach house we’re staying in as an example. My friend Tom (one of the owners), runs their website and handles bookings – and has just asked me how he could best let people know about this wonderful place. “Facebook,” I told him – and you’ll love his response. “Facebook? I’m on Facebook,” he said, “but I don’t get it – and I hardly ever use it.” He said that when people ask to be his friend, he adds them – but that’s it. Does this sound familiar? If it does, stay tuned. Because, on Wednesday I’ll show you what’s possible on Facebook – with very little time and effort, and no money! Until then, have a Happy Marketing Monday!
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