Do you think that Facebook is just for teenagers wanting to share photos with friends? Think again. Facebook has become a social phenomenon that has changed the way many of us interpret networking. With over 70 million users worldwide, it has become an undeniably important tool for anyone trying to grow a business.

Launched in February 2004 by Harvard student, Mark Zuckerberg, Facebook originally began as a way for students to connect and interact with each other. Yes, it may have seemed like simply a youthful fad at first. But, it’s now popular amongst all demographics and has become “the” place to attract prospects, build customer relationships, and develop brand awareness. In fact, organizations of all sizes are finding Facebook applications to be useful for a whole host of business building tactics.

So, now are you curious about how Facebook could help you and your business? Here’s a list of the latest ways to incorporate the site into your growth strategy:

Brand Development

Simply put, Facebook is a convenient, easy to navigate, online destination where you can communicate your brand to an ever-growing network of potential buyers. Many businesses are currently using Facebook quite successfully to communicate special promotions and events to increase brand awareness. Others are simply posting their product and service offerings, hoping to differentiate themselves from their competitors who have yet to discover Facebook as a marketing tool.

Link to your Website

Once someone has found your business on Facebook, they need to be offered more information. Provide the link to your website and any other online properties. And, don’t forget to provide a link to your Facebook page on your website.

Find New Customers

With the number of Facebook users growing by leaps and bounds, it’s obvious why businesses are using its applications to generate and qualify leads. There are large numbers of potential customers on the site that you wouldn’t have otherwise connected with, and qualifying them can be as easy as reviewing their profiles.

Feedback

Want to learn more about what consumers are thinking? With the sharing of content and commentary, Facebook offers valuable insight that you can apply to your business.

Client Retention

Keep your clients up to date on Facebook. Along with providing the link to your page on your website, include it in your email correspondence and your marketing material. Refresh the content often, and consider the page an online newsletter where you can provide the information and offerings that your customers want and need.