Just because you have a Facebook page and are all-around awesome, doesn’t mean people will find and like your page. Building up a network on the popular social network is hard work that is never truly complete as once you get their like you have to work to keep their interest. Much harder some would say. But let’s start at the beginning – how can we get people to find your page in the first place.
Your clients and prospective clients need to be enticed to your salon fan page; they don’t just appear from the mist. There are ways to go about earning your first 500 fans, and here are some great tips to help you:
Set Your Facebook URL
Just like your domain for your website, you need to set your Facebook URL so that it’s easy to remember and also communicate. To do this, go to Edit Page -> Update Page Info. The second option is to set your page URL.
Add your Facebook page name to your email signature.
A great way to promote your personal Facebook page is to add a link to your fan page in each email you send. While you’re at it, make sure your new page URL is added to these places:
- Business website
- Business cards
- Store window
- Shelf talkers
- Service Menu
- Receipt footer
- Phone hold music
- Email newsletter
- Email confirmations
Don’t be afraid to blend business with personal
When you first launch your page, invite all of your personal connections that make sense to have on your business page. Even your family is a good choice as we all assume that they come to you for haircuts, right? They’re probably your biggest advocates as well, referring everyone they know to your business. They’ll likely do the same with your Facebook page. Think of anyone you know, and don’t be afraid to tell them you’re now on Facebook. You can also use the “invite fans” option in the admin taskbar of your business page. However, you may want to talk to mum about any “I’m so proud of you, pumpkin.” comments.
Utilize the share button
The share button – it’s available to everyone on Facebook and it’s very handy. It works when you share on your own profile. On occasion, go to your personal fan page and select the “Share+” button. Think of a strong comment related to your post, changes within your business or specials that are offered at your salon and invite your friends to like your page if they haven’t.
Send out a notice
Do you have a thriving email newsletter? Make sure to send out a notice to your email contacts asking them to join you on Facebook. This will be a great boost early in the process and you can always add breakout notices in subsequent email communications sent to your clients to keep the updated.
Encourage fans to tag photos
Take pictures. ALL THE TIME! If you host an event, take plenty of photos, or even hire a professional photographer for the job. Load the photos to your fan page and have your fans tag themselves. This pushes into their wall and their friends’ News Feeds giving priceless exposure to your business that doesn’t cost you a dime.
Place Facebook ads
Utilize Facebook’s social ad feature. It’s a great way to boost your fan count, even if your budget is small. It’s the most targeted traffic that your dollars can buy.
Run Facebook campaigns
A great way to drum up some awareness is to run a promotion that your clients can only take advantage of if they are connected to you on Facebook. From something as simple as a coupon revealed after they like your page, to a referral campaign that gets the users personal network involved. Lots and lots of creative (and fun) options here. Ask your linkup coach about how to run your own custom campaign on your Facebook page. They’re also great in combination with Facebook Ads.
These tips will help your market your salon business and get your first 500 fans in no time. Do you have any tricks you’ve found handy?
Author Bio: Valorie Reavis
Social Marketer, foodie, closet geekA marketing professional who has focused primarily on the hair and beauty business for of the past decade, Valorie now runs linkup marketing, a digital marketing agency for the hair and beauty professional. Valorie works to engage clients in the marketing process and help them successfully engage with their clients and community. Energetic and passionate about the industry, Valorie focuses on blending traditional and digital media in order to bring salons closer to their clients.
