With over 200 million users Facebook has changed the way that people from around the globe interact and keep in touch. Perhaps one of the most surprising aspects of Facebook is how easy it is for users to setup a profile and begin interacting with friends and family for free on the Facebook website. The vast network facilitated by Facebook and available to users means that Facebook can offer great value to your business. The perfect free marketing tool!

With each visit users are able to conveniently interact with friends from all corners of the globe some of whom they may not have spoken to in decades and others which they may have made through similar interests or shared experiences. If one imagines for a moment how utterly amazing this is it is actually mind blowing.

As a user you can interact with anybody in the world provided that they are a member of Facebook - everyone should be a member of Facebook if they want to live in the age of web 2.0. With a few simple clicks users can upload images, share special occasions and even exchange virtual gifts.

Facebook's News Feed enables users to keep abreast of status changes, updates, share images and generally keep abreast of happenings. This micro-blogging facet allows users to record feelings and messages about what they are thinking and doing. Making it possible for users to keep up-to-date with friend's daily happenings from around the world by simply logging onto their profile.

Although Facebook has taken the world by storm, forcing some companies to ban its use due to its effects on productivity, perhaps one of the most underused aspects of Facebook is the potential for business. Facebook creates the perfect platform for businesses to interact with potential customers, existing customers and in many cases customers who previously may never have been on your radar.

For business networking purposes you can either create a profile for your business and then invite friends and other interested users to join. The second option is to create your personal profile and then disseminate information about your business via your profile. Either way it is amazing to see how quickly your messages infiltrate the Facebook network. Should you be planning an event you also have the option to send out an invitation for the specific event which should include details of the event. Users even have an RSVP option.

While a group in the name of your business or cause would attract like minded individuals, the best thing to do is to consider your long term goals. Information on your personal profile adds a more personal aspect to your messages which lends a certain amount of credibility. This may make your messages more trusted and increase their impact but it may cause confusion if you use your profile for personal messages.  

Depending on the nature of the business and your network of friends it is best to consider your long term goals and the extent to which Facebook can work for you. Factors such as the name of a group and the type of information that you intend uploading should be carefully considered. From there you can begin the process of setting up your profile to be suit your needs.

Facebook is a free privately owned social networking site owned by Facebook Inc. to join Facebook or for more information visit www.facebook.com
 

By Melissa Combrinck - Daheim Communications