It is incredible how popular social networking has become in such a short time, and increasing numbers of businesses have discovered ways to utilize these social websites as successful promotional tools for their products and services.

Facebook is a very popular social networking website that launched in 2004. In 2010, their membership base boasts over 500 million active users and continues to grow. It isn’t hard to see why business owners choose to use this resource as a part of their marketing campaign efforts. The traffic is there; business owners just need to target it specifically for their products and services.

So how do businesses go about using a social network site to promote their company? Here are a few pointers regarding the use of Facebook as a promotional tool for your business enterprise.

#1 – It is a good idea to keep your business Facebook account separate from your personal account. Each of these accounts serves a different purpose. The initial steps you’ll need to take are to first create an account and then create a profile. Take time to create an eye catching profile and be sure to include your website link.

#2 – Take advantage of viral opportunities by integrating Facebook into your website. It makes it easier for your website visitors to interact because they can comment on Facebook from your web portal and share your links with others.

#3 – While many businesses tend to use the free marketing tools that Facebook provides, some others also utilize Facebook Ads. These ads are another form of pay per click advertising and are targeted based on what people enter in their profiles, so more of your ads reach individuals who are most likely interested in your product or service.

#4 – Encourage clients to become fans of your Facebook page. For instance, if you own a hair salon, offer clients a discount on future services if they become a member of your page. As you build your fan base, send out notices of sales, new products and developments, and incentives for customers to schedule an appointment.

If you own a restaurant, send weekly messages regarding nightly specials, happy hour deals, and new items to be added to the menu. Offer links to printable coupons customers can use on their next visit.

#5 – Network with other businesses. You can join groups on Facebook that already have a fan following. Take advantage by promoting your business via URL links to this already existent fan base.

#6 – It is important to note that you cannot create a page for another company. Only an official representative of an “organization, business, celebrity, or band” can create a Facebook page for that business. Once the page is created you can enlist the help of others to help you manage and maintain it, but it must be created by the actual owner.

A key point to remember is that your Facebook presence needs to be maintained on a regular basis. As you build up your base of Facebook fans, it is important to communicate with them and give them reasons to visit your website and/or your brick and mortar place of business. Building a fan base is an important part of the process, but don’t forget the other critical element which is to market to the fans once they join your page.