5 things you're doing wrong on Facebook

In the second of a four-part series on social media communication, we tell you how you can make the most of your Facebook account. Read the first part here!

Facebook is definitely one of the most popular tools of social communication.

With its user-friendly features and accessibility across demographics, Facebook also has the ability to be misinterpreted by many -- a post you think is funny could rub the wrong way if it's not communicated effectively.

Besides that, there are a few mistakes most of us are subconsciously repeating without realising the impact it has on other users in your circle.

Perhaps, you can try avoiding the following mistakes and take charge of your account:

1. Sending mass messages to your network

Nobody, and we mean absolutely nobody likes to read a message sent to many by some unknown party.

This is the equivalent of a spam in your inbox.

2. Constant self-advertisement

The objective for your brand to be present on social media platforms should be to engage and connect with your fans on a more one-to-one basis.

Self advertising only makes your page boring and thus results to lesser number of followers.

3. Turning off your user comments function

Negative comments from users are a usual occurrence.

A fun-loving college friend who never takes you (or your posts) seriously, a spammer, a cynic are some of the types of people you will come across in your list.

It’s how you handle these situations with skill that makes you a true professional.

4. Spamming Newsfeed with frequent posts

Limit your Facebook posts to a certain number daily.

Your fans wouldn't appreciate seeing your content every time they scroll through your Newsfeed.

5. Ignoring your page insights

Have you spent time analysing your online behaviour -- the posts that worked and those that didn't?

Maybe you should do it more often -- like, once every fortnight?

Based on this information you can improvise on the timing, frequency and the quality of your posts.

ALSO READ: Ouch! Here's why LinkedIn is not working for you

The author is CEO, MindShift Interactive, a digital media agency.

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Meanwhile, here are some tips to get Facebook working for you and your career:

1. A good profile picture and an equally good cover photo

Goes without saying, your cover photo, followed by your profile picture is the first thing that catch a viewer's eye. 

2. Clean up the unnecessary 

The big difference between an ordinary page and a professionally managed one is the presentation and aesthetics.

Let the best of things show up on you first page.

De-tag yourself from unwarranted posts, photographs and messages. 

2. Post interesting content

Post information that no one else has posted before to help generate maximum reach and engagement for your page (and posts).

Make sure you acknowledge your friends' comments which only encourages them to like and keep up with your activity.

3. Post when maximum number of users are online

If you are managing a page or a group on Facebook, you'd come across an interesting feature called Facebook Page insights.

It helps you understand when most of your fans are active on Facebook, so it is preferable to post updates at these times so it gets maximum reach and generates interaction from your fans.

4. Enable feedback

The purpose of social media is to encourage users to subscribe to your posts and follow your activity.

Make sure your posts generate positive feedback, inspire healthy discussions and are worth the time.