Facebook Graph Search and What to Make of It

We are all only too familiar with the constant changes on Facebook. A more recent one, Facebook Graph Search is still in Beta and made available only to select Facebook users in the US. In anticipation of graph search being made available to all this summer, I thought that I might share how this new way of searching might help the small businesses.

What is Facebook Graph Search?

Facebook Graph Search is a search model where you are served up results based not on any keyword you typed in, but rather results determined by your social spheres. For instance, your search will reveal people who share your interests, photos and videos they've liked, and connections you share. In other words, the search results are unique to you as they're based on you and your friend's interests.

How can you use Graph Search in your marketing?

One of the key benefits gained from the launch of Graph Search is that it will go a long way towards weeding out pages that are trying to game the system. Fake Likes and Fans, originating from strange locations, will likely not show in the search results. So say goodbye to the "I will get you 30,000 Facebook Likes" industry, where often people found all sorts of new friends and fans from Bangladesh and such!

If your business is seriously interested in social media, you are in position to reap the benefits of this, as you will become more visible on Facebook.

Tips on how to prepare for Facebook Graph Search:

• Be sure your business page profile is entirely filled out, so that users can find you.
• Make sure to engage, not sell your visitors.
• Be careful of what is posted online, especially on Facebook itself, as this may come back to embarrass your business greatly!
• Clean up your timeline if necessary :)

Facebook, when utilized correctly can be a valuable tool to drive traffic to your website, build your brand, client retention as well as connecting and market to new prospects.  Use it well and your business with thrive. 

When I ask business owners, what is your Facebook strategy they either laugh and admit they don't have one, or they give me a blank stare.  As is with all aspects of marketing, having a strategy goes a long way toward eliminating time or money lost.  We offer a free social media marketing strategy session to help you on your way.  You can submit your request here.

Wishing you much success with your social media marketing,

Birgit