Why facebook still matters for small businesses
If you’re running a small business, your Facebook page remains one of the most valuable digital tools you have. Facebook has effectively become a search engine like Google, with your Facebook page like a second website. With strong community features, a reliable reach, and customers who check in daily to find out about your business. When you apply an intentional approach to Facebook, it becomes a platform that builds loyalty, visibility, and trust.
Is Facebook still the kingpin?
Facebook remains one of the most widely used platforms, especially for adults over 30. We’re using it for keeping in touch with friends and family, following local updates, joining community groups, selling our stuff, and contacting businesses. And as for the way businesses use it, it’s a platform for reaching new audiences, keeping our customers up to date, storytelling, community building and customer support.
Trades and service industries like mechanics, cleaners, locksmiths and landscapers perform well because people use Facebook to really get to know the business and understand how credible they are. Hospitality, retail and health providers also see strong results, as customers look for updates, opening hours and helpful information. Community groups, schools, clubs and not-for-profits thrive thanks to Facebook’s focus on local engagement, while professional services such as brokers, accountants and real estate agents use it to build trust and stay visible. If your business serves everyday people in a local area, Facebook remains one of the most effective platforms to connect and communicate, not to mention it’s the cheapest way to advertise.
How to use your Business Facebook Page effectively
1. Post with purpose
Purposeful content performs better, attracts comments, and builds engagement. Before publishing anything, ask yourself:
Is it helpful?
Does it inspire?
Does it start a conversation?
Does it encourage an action?
2. Keep your tone human and approachable
Facebook users respond best to genuine, friendly messaging. Share real stories, everyday moments, and content that shows the people behind your brand. Use real photos and videos from your business and of your staff, if possible. Smartphones and apps can do the heavy lifting and help you make something look professional to the majority of your market.
3. Focus on consistency, not volume
You don’t need to post every day, let's be honest, you’ll do it for a week, and then you’ll forget, or it’ll end up in the too hard basket. Two or three high quality posts each week are enough to keep your presence active without overwhelming your audience. Not all of these posts need to involve a photograph, it could be a quote, a hint or a tip that is delivered in an on-brand slide. This really helps to take away some of the legwork and time involved.
4. Use video and imagery
Words can only get you so far, and we all know that people need visuals to capture their attention. Keeping your imagery consistently on brand is probably the most important thing you can do.
5. Encourage conversation
Ask questions, reply to comments and start meaningful discussions, or fun debates. Facebook rewards pages that spark interaction and build engagement with their followers. I would go as far as to say Facebook looks after smaller businesses more than bigger faceless corporations. A smaller local run business has the opportunity to really leverage the community feel that Facebook can generate.
Final thoughts, be intentional
Your business Facebook page is not just a marketing tool, it’s a digital gathering place for your community. When you show up with intention, clarity and consistency, you build a brand that people return to and trust.
If you want help shaping your Facebook content, creating a content calendar or refreshing your online messaging, I’d be more than happy to talk things through with you. Get in touch.