May 30, 2012
Facebook launches Offers for business pages
Facebook has always been an advocate for small business. Their newest feature, “Offers,” gives business owners yet another marketing tool to add to their arsenal.
No longer are the days when a business owner should feel the need to post a long status updates about a new special. Now, with Offers, they can make an appealing deal in a matter of minutes.
This is what an offer looks like from mobile, as pictured in the screenshot to the right. When the user clicks “Get Offer” they immediately receive an email, from Facebook, to redeem.
The process of setting up an offer is practically fool-proof, meaning there is very little room for user error. However, these are a few good reminders to consider when setting one up for the very first time.
1) Use the full character limit
Offer text is limited to 90 characters. The message should be clear, concise and also attract the audience’s attention.
2) Include an attractive thumbnail
Facebook suggests that you use a photo with people using your product. Whatever thumbnail you decide to go with, make sure it accurately depicts what the offer is for.
3) Set an expiration date that makes sense
Think about the offer from a customer’s point of view. Give them at least one week to claim and redeem the offer.
4) Cover your terms and conditions
Make 100% certain that your offer will not be misinterpreted. The worst thing that could happen would be to have a bunch of people trying to redeem a misleading coupon.
5) Train your sales staff
This is by far the most important reminder to consider. Your sales staff — the people who will be handling the offer — need to know standard protocol for redeeming the offer. This coupon should be treated just like any other coupon the store promotes.
Filed under Social Media