So, you think you're using Facebook to it's fullest potential huh? Well, think again. When it comes to using Social Media to promote your business, there are definitely some major rules for success that not many small businesses are following. For instance, if the last thing you posted was self promoting (like a sale) you totally missed the mark. If you are using Facebook (or any other social media for that matter) merely as a billboard to talk about yourself, you're missing out on a whole world of possibilities for business growth.

Would you ever walk into a business networking event and start throwing your business cards at people around the room, just tossing them carelessly right in people's faces without saying a word? And if you did, would you expect a great return? Nope! Think of Facebook in the same way. Every time you post a sales flyer or some self promoting post, nobody cares. Sorry, the truth hurts. And sadly, Facebook knows that nobody cares so they don't let your post show up in many people's news feeds. You could pay for them to show it, but again, nobody even cares so what's the point?

I know that a lot of business owners pay for followers, and pay to promote posts. I truly believe that it's a huge waste of marketing dollars to do so. If you use your social media channels wisely, your followers will be sharing your business with their followers, and promoting your posts for you. Does it all seem too good to be true? Or like too much work? Well, think again. By dedicating a little time and effort into your social media channels, you could be raking in the business.

Let's get down to it. How exactly does one make the most of their Facebook account? Well, they call it 'Social Media" for a reason. The definitions of the two words are - Social : Seeking or enjoying the companionship of others; friendly; sociable; gregarious. Media : The main means of mass communication (especially television, radio, newspapers, and the Internet) regarded collectively. Social Media should be used for socializing. It's as simple as that.

Think of your Facebook page as a relationship building tool. It should be used for engagement, nurturing relationships, sharing ideas and opinions. Facebook is not a soapbox for you to get up on to talk about your business, it's a soapbox for you to get up on and talk about your life! When your followers (current and potential customers) see that you are a real person with interesting things to say, they will engage with you. Your posts will get more likes and more shares.