Facebook’s Algorithm Update: What it means for businesses

Facebook recently announced that it is updating its algorithm yet again. For businesses that rely on the platform for audience engagement, this may seem like a daunting task. However, these updates offer both challenges and opportunities. In this article, I will discuss what the update means for businesses and how they can leverage it to their advantage.

The update primarily focuses on improving the user’s overall experience on Facebook. The algorithm will favor posts from family and friends over those from brands and businesses. This means that posts from businesses will have a lower chance of appearing in a user’s newsfeed. Consequently, businesses may see a decline in organic reach, and social media managers may have to work harder to get their content in front of their target audience.

However, this should not discourage businesses from using Facebook as a marketing tool. Brands can still succeed by adapting their social media strategy to align with the algorithm update. Here are some ways businesses can make the most of the update:

1. Use video content

Video content tends to perform better on Facebook compared to other forms of content. Incorporating videos into your social media strategy can help your brand get more engagement and reach. According to Social Media Examiner, video content usually generates 59% more engagement than other types of posts. So invest in creating quality video content.

2. Create highly-engaging content

Facebook’s new algorithm prioritizes content that users are more likely to interact with. That means businesses should create highly-engaging content that encourages comments, likes, shares, and reactions. To do this, you need to understand your audience and find out what appeals to them. Use customer feedback, user-generated content, or other social media activities to understand what your followers love.

3. Focus on building a community

The new algorithm also prioritizes content that encourages meaningful interactions. As a business, you should aim to create a community where your customers feel valued and heard. This can be achieved by responding to comments and messages promptly, engaging in conversations, and running polls or surveys to solicit feedback from followers.

4. Invest in Facebook Advertising

While organic posts may not reach as many people as before, Facebook advertising can help businesses reach a wider audience. Investing in Facebook ads can allow your brand to reach customers that may not have seen your organic posts. Facebook’s detailed targeting options also make it easier to find and reach your ideal customers.

In conclusion, Facebook’s algorithm update may seem like a challenge for businesses at first glance. But, it can be an opportunity to improve their social media strategy by creating high-quality, engaging content that resonates with their audience. By investing in video content, building a community, and advertising strategically, businesses can still succeed on Facebook. So, don’t hesitate to adapt your social media strategy to the new algorithm and take advantage of the opportunities it presents.