What is a Facebook group?
A Facebook group is different from a Facebook page. Indeed, when a business wishes to be present on this social media, they often decide to create a page instead of a group because it seems more official. Then, what is the purpose of a Facebook group?
A group is a gathering of users. The goal here is to create a community of people who have shared interests. It is not unusual to see Facebook groups associated with a family, city, association, or school. It is a more private place for sharing and exchanging. According to recent statistics, approximately 10% of all Facebook users have subscribed to groups. Therefore, it represents several million people. You might even be a member of many Facebook groups! There is also a growing interest in these groups. Moreover, unlike general Facebook pages, users can publish content on a group. There are consequently more exchanges and involvement most of the time. You can also decide to create an open to all or private group.
How can a Facebook group be relevant for my business? There are many reasons. After you create an official Facebook page for your business, add a group related to your activity. For example, if you provide courses, it could be interesting to your students to have a place where they can discuss and help each other. If you sell specific products and you want to fight for a cause you care about (for example, the zero-waste movement), you could create a group on this topic for the people in your area. Potential customers could then notice your involvement and discover your products. Nonetheless, we suggest you take a look at the existing Facebook groups before creating a new one. Be unique.
How can I create a Facebook group?
Is it very complicated to create a Facebook group? No, it is quite simple. On Facebook’s home page, click on the Group tab located on the left. Then, click on Create a group. Choose a name and define confidentiality (public or private). For example, only members can see who is part of the group and have access to the content on private groups. Next, think about adding a cover (Canva can help you with that) and start inviting potential members.
If you already have a Facebook page, you can create and link a group to it. To do so, go on your page as an administrator and then click on Groups and on Create a group. Your group will then appear on your official page. If you do not have time to manage a group, you can always subscribe to some of them.
Share your content
As we mentioned earlier, there is an organic reach decrease on Facebook. Every year, fewer people see your content, even if they like your page. Since there is a significant increase of published content on this social media and people still have only 24 hours per day, Facebook must choose what content will be seen with the help of algorithms. Of course, paid content is prioritized. There is then less space for organic content, free content.
The content is king, but how you spread it is queen. When you publish content on your Facebook page, it is recommended to share it on Facebook groups to increase your visibility and your organic reach. Indeed, it must be groups related to your activity, or it will not work. You must keep in mind to respect the theme of the groups. The word to remember here is relevance. Start by finding groups related to your activity. For example, if you are an accountant specializing in self-employed workers’ accounting, it would be relevant to be on groups with self-employed workers. Earn the trust and respect of other members by involving yourself. Answer questions, comment, participate. Then, you will be able to share your content on these groups and increase your organic reach. It indeed requires some effort, but it is an efficient way to communicate with potential customers and partners.
Monitor trends on Facebook groups
Facebook groups are also the ideal place to do some monitoring. Indeed, you can find potential customers, but also their questions and worries. This will allow you to understand and answer their needs better. You will see how your brand is viewed, and you can offer your products or services when it is relevant. For example, if someone is looking for a gift for Mother’s Day, and you make fancy candles, it might be a business opportunity. Once more, it needs to be relevant. It is then essential to find the right groups for your business.
In conclusion, do not underestimate Facebook groups. Whether it is a group for your business or one related to your interests, they are often not used to their full potential by entrepreneurs. It is no longer enough to publish content from time to time; you need to build a community!