If you’re just tuning in, on Monday’s blog post we discussed the basics of Facebook Pages – what are they, why should you use them, and how have they changed recently.  Today, we’re getting into the good stuff: what to post once you have one!  Creating and managing content seems like a daunting task when you already have a full plate, but it doesn’t have to be.  Here are 6 Active Building Approved tips for Facebook Page maintenance:

Give Before You Take:  Don’t just jump on Facebook and start using it like Craigslist.  The majority of people who “Like” your Page are probably residents and don’t need to hear about the two-bedroom unit that’s available.  It’s important to remember that with any Social Media outlet you need to become a trusted member of the community first, or else you will seem like a spammer.

Don’t Be Afraid to Engage:  Facebook is all about interacting with your fans.  So what is the biggest mistake you can make?  Not allowing fans to comment on your wall.  The second biggest mistake?  Not responding when fans comment.  Managers are afraid to let just anyone comment, but instead of being afraid, take it as an opportunity to open up the lines of communication and respond.  No one is ever going to be 100% satisfied, but people want to know that they’re being heard – this is beneficial for retention and prospecting!

Show Current Residents and Prospects What They’re Missing:  Did you host a fantastic Super Bowl party?  Are there cookies in the leasing office?  Do your Cherry Trees have the first blossoms of Spring?  Post a picture!  They say a picture is worth a thousand words, so grab a camera and show the Facebook world what they’re missing by not being your resident (or not being active in the community).



Be The Local Go-To Source:  It’s pretty annoying when people on Facebook or Twitter only talk about themselves.  As an apartment community, you have the opportunity to provide your residents with relevant local information.  “Like” a local cupcake shop and when they post special deals, share them on your Facebook Page.  Post links to tickets for upcoming concerts.  Poll residents on what their favorite pizza place is.  This allows you to become a source of information for people who aren’t already your residents!



Take Advantage of the New Interactive Features:  Now your Page can comment on posts from other Pages.  So do it!  Did you like that local cupcake shop I told you to?  Go respond to one of their posts.  Maybe a person who “Likes” the cupcake shop happens to be apartment hunting and decides to take a peek at your page.  They’ll be so blown away by your content they won’t be able to resist coming to visit!

Show Thanks: While I’m sure Miss Manners would prefer that we send hand written notes of appreciation, let’s be honest – our plates are so full already that we don’t have near enough time.  So you know what, it’s OK to thank your residents on Facebook.  Give a shout out to those who attended an event or someone who went out of their way to be helpful.  When residents know they’re appreciated, they’re more likely to stick around.

What tips do you have for creating and maintaining content on Facebook Pages?  Do you agree with our tips?  Disagree?  Let us know!