How to Create and Sustain a Successful Facebook Group

A Facebook group requires continual nurturing and adding relevant content. But the rewards of having dedicated followers make it worth the effort. Here are some tips for busy agents looking to create a new Facebook group or enhance and grow an existing one.

What if you had a captured audience of potential clients and referrals, all in one convenient location where you can communicate regularly? Gold mine, right? That is what a Facebook group can do for you and your business. But a Facebook group needs to be managed a certain way to be successful. Here are a few pointers to consider, whether you are creating a brand-new group or enhancing an existing one. 

Tip #1: Make it engaging

First of all, a Facebook group requires routine management, including adding content that matters to the community’s members. It is not a “set it and forget it” proposition. Your efforts will pay off, however, as you see your community grow. Some people find it helpful to set aside a few hours every week to generate content. Or keep a folder on your desktop with a running list of content ideas. 

Tip #2: Make it something people want to join

People like joining groups that reflect their lifestyles and values, so make it about the group, not about you. Keep it local and relevant. For example, call it a Community Homeowners Group or a [Town Name] Homeowners Huddle. Make it a resource. Make it entertaining. Spark conversations and invite participation by engaging regularly with group members and encouraging others to post. Share some of your favorite aspects of living in that community and invite others to do the same.

Tip #3: Provide value

Your group page can become a go-to resource with tips and reminders for local residents. What are the dates/times for the fireworks display? What is the parade route? When is trash pickup day? Who has posted a lost pet in the neighborhood? Post the dates and times of your open houses. Offer home staging tips. Every community is filled with need-to-know information. Consider recommending service providers you’ve used and liked, such as cleaning and lawn services. Your group will grow as it becomes a community exchange of resources. 

Tip #4: Get creative with content 

Your group page reflects your dedication to the community where you work and live. This informative and entertaining content is all courtesy of you. Get creative, but be sure to keep it in good taste and avoid anything controversial. Consider what might appeal to this audience. Are there local causes or charities you can call attention to? Or perhaps there are inside jokes such as “The 10 Things Only People from [Town Name] Would Know.” 

How to create your Facebook Group

Now that you’ve thought about what to call your Facebook group and how it can engage with people in your community and build your business, it’s time to set it up. This is a fairly simple process.

•    After signing in on Facebook, click the drop-down arrow at the top right corner of the page.
•    Click on “Create Group.”
•    Name the group, set the privacy options, and then invite friends to join.
•    When considering your privacy options, you can decide if you want to approve posts before they appear on your group page. 
•    You will have the ability to make your group public, closed or private. A public group will make your page the most visible.
•    Click “Create.”

That’s all there is to it. Now you will have a Facebook group and a new channel for building your business and staying involved with your community.

http://www.inman.com/2017/05/22/create-stellar-facebook-group-stimulate-thriving-community/  

http://www.inman.com/2016/04/14/top-6-facebook-groups-every-real-estate-agent-join/ 

https://www.easyagentpro.com/blog/facebook-groups-for-real-estate/