Ten social media tips from Weyerhaeuser

Federal Way, Washington-based Weyerhaeuser says its 7,700 “likes” on its company Facebook page didn’t come overnight, and they didn’t come by accident.

Even if big numbers aren’t a goal for your organization, everyone likes to be “liked” on Facebook.

"Facebook is a good platform to reach your customer and your local community," said Josh Dill, digital marketing specialist for Weyerhaeuser Distribution. "Including your employees and their involvement in the community is a home run for everyone involved.”

[While you're at it, check out HBSDealer's Facebook page here.]

Dill points to the following 10 tips:

Tip #1 - Make your page active and engaging. Post strong graphics, good pictures and embed videos into your posts.

Tip #2 - Talk products. Your customers use Facebook to stay informed, so give them fast product insights along with strong product images.

Tip #3 - Keep active on Facebook. You should post at least three times a week.

Tip #4 - Mention your customers in your posts as often as possible. Include pictures of their projects, repost their company announcements and include shout-outs when they celebrate a milestone.

Tip #5 - Shine the spotlight on your company successes. Share positive comments from your customers, showcase your employees and talk about your company news.

Tip #6 - Make sure to put a Facebook icon button on the home page of your company website. Then create a link so that people clicking on the icon are immediately brought to your company's Facebook page.

Tip #7 - Take time to "Like" your customer's Facebook pages ... and invite them to do the same with your page. When your customers see you regularly on Facebook, then your company stays "top of mind" with them for their product needs.

Tip #8 - Create a list of your top 10 or 20 customers. Make sure to visit their Facebook pages on a regular basis and get involved in their postings by liking, replying or reposting their messages when appropriate.

Tip #9 - Don't get political. This is an election year, but companies should steer clear of posting candidate messages or videos.

Tip #10 - Make Facebook work for you. If you're having a store promotion, include the details and reminders to your customers on your Facebook page.