Yesterday, we created an optimized profile as a base for future online business development. Today, we will focus on the development and management of groups.
To the left is a screenshot of the group I created for my organic vegetable gardening blog, Gardener to Farmer. If you click on the picture, it will take you to the group. There are examples of all of the tactics I describe in this post, in this group.
Before starting a group on Facebook, it is important to engage in a bit of market research by exploring existing groups. Are their similar groups that are really popular? What kind of content are they providing? What kind of questions are being asked? How many members are there? This kind of information can help you create a group that has a special niche rather than duplicating topics and content. Be sure to join all similar communities. The members of these groups are likely to become members of yours.
Once you have decided on a topic, create a solid description and name that actually tells people what the group is about...you would be surprised at how many groups are obscurely named. That's fine if it is a personal, for fun kind of group...not so great if you want someone to find your group. And if you have a solid list of keywords, even better. Remember, keywords are most effective when used consistently across the net.
A quick tip: add the Memorable Web Address application to your profile. With it, you can generate easy web addresses for your profile and groups. This is really helpful for promoting your group...the addresses that Facebook assigns are a yard long, full of numbers and letters and other strange characters.
Next, add some great content to get the group started. Discussion points, photos, videos...create value so people joining your group will see the benefit of membership right away.
Now, start inviting people from your existing friends with the invitation feature. You can also click the share button and invite your friends by promoting the group in your information stream.
You can also promote your group on other groups. Be sure not to do it in an obnoxious, spammy way. Most groups are fine with a topic related post and link on the wall...not so much in the discussion groups.
Another way to build both your group membership and your overall reach is to start friending members of similar groups. Remember that your friends will see your activity stream, and their friends will see their interactions with you. Though it may take a bit to get going, this is a great way to build viral messaging capability.
Now that we have the basics in place, we will talk about advanced engagement by combining other social media tools and Facebook in our final post.
