I have joined many groups, even moderated a few, and still do. For the most part, people contribute on a daily basis and the content remains good. When does this change? Most groups have a document called "Guidelines". These are the rules, if you wish to call them that, that you agree to when you join this group. If you do not agree, no one is holding you hostage, you're free to leave the group. So why do you stay?
Based on that statement, why do people find it necessary to cause conflict when they don't follow the guidelines? We are all looking for information that is relevant to our professional industry, whatever that may be. The problem lies here: too many people think that liking their Facebook business page is the only way to drum up business. They couldn't be more wrong. In fact, people can like a post or picture on your page without even becoming a fan! What people fail to see is as an opportunity to promote their business OUTSIDE of Facebook!! Sure, it's great, you have a business page...and? Does that really tell me anything about what exactly it is that you do?
Instead of complaining that you can't do this or can't do that, use the self-promotion days to promote you, your web site, your blog, photos, events you've done, areas that contain information about you & your business but within the guidelines you agreed to when you joined! No one wants to see the constant "Like my page & I'll like yours." What does that get you? Your fan numbers may go up but are those people really interested in you? How do you know? You've probably had no interaction with them since. This is the same reason I prefer to not do "liking ladders". Who are these people joining your page? Are they relevant to your business? Can you make them your client?
The most important thing to remember when you join a Facebook group that someone else created: This is NOT your group! You are simply a member, by choice, and by doing so you agree to follow the guidelines set forth by the group owner(s). Period. It's really not that hard, now, is it?
Dorinda Duclos is the owner of Favors by Dorinda - Personalized Candy Bar Wrappers & Custom Candy Cakes for your wedding & other special occasions!
Join us on Facebook
Follow Us on Twitter
Circle Us on Google+
Copyright 2011 Favors by Dorinda/Dorinda Duclos All Rights Reserved
Unfortunately, there are business people out there, no matter the communications platform, that are missing ethics and professionalism.
ReplyDeleteWith the onset of social media being such a prevalent tool for small business marketing, those that lack proper conduct & professional make networking and information sharing on Facebook groups fairly difficult.
It is important for any group or community online to have at least 1 community manager to moderate all conversations.
Karina Alvela
www.PRForSmallBusinesses.com
Dorinda, I truly agree with you. We should all be grown-ups and understand the RULES of the group. Great article and to the point.
ReplyDeleteBeth