Having second thoughts about social media marketing? The whistleblower’s testimony on Capitol Hill may have you reevaluating Facebook as a marketing tool. If you missed the news flash, here’s the super-simplified version. Former Facebook employee Frances Haugen testified that Facebook values profits over safety. She said that the social media platform made choices that allow hateful, polarizing content on its site. Facebook denied the accusations, saying it continues to balance the right for people to express themselves while keeping Facebook safe and positive. Overall, the testimony painted an unsavory picture of the ubiquitous social media company.
Should We Continue Facebook Marketing?
Does the whistleblower testimony mean that companies should stop posting on Facebook? Plus, what about Instagram and YouTube? Facebook owns these platforms, too. Despite the brouhaha, the answer is no. Granted, these social media networks should be carefully monitored for misconduct. We’re right to question their integrity.
Despite its defects, Facebook continues to be an effective way to connect with customers. Companies build their brand by engaging with their audience online. Organizations that spent time and resources to attract a following on social media would be unwise to throw it all away. However, social media marketing shouldn’t rank as the be-all and end-all of a marketing plan.
Who Controls Facebook & Social Media?
Customers who solely rely on social media run the risk of putting all of their eggs in one basket. What happens, if for some reason beyond their control, the basket flips. Realistically, what control does a small business have over social media platforms? In comparison, what control does a small business have over its own website? Hopefully, you see the difference.
Who Controls My Website?
Businesses typically own their own websites. A website is company property. Thus, company executives control the brand message and how it’s presented. Additionally, a website is an organization’s No. 1 salesperson working 24/7. Facebook is chock-full of distractions, and company posts oftentimes go unnoticed. However, a business website is a single-focus, streamlined marketing tool. Websites educate the audience and inspire the audience to take action. A call to action, for example, might be “Contact us,” “Schedule a consultation,” or “Request a quote.”
What’s the Best Marketing Strategy?
When determining a marketing strategy, organizations should rank their websites higher than social media. Marketing materials and brand messaging should direct people to a company website, not Facebook, YouTube or Instagram. While directing customers to social media pages is an important marketing strategy, it shouldn’t be the main goal. Instead, a business website is the No. 1 place to send clients.
For assistance developing a website as a powerful marketing tool, contact us today. Packerland Websites creates websites that convert leads into sales, so businesses prosper.