5 ways to win at Facebook Live

Just like its competitors Periscope, Meerkat and YouTube, the appropriately named Facebook Live allows users to broadcast live from any mobile device, providing businesses the perfect opportunity to engage with their current and prospective customers on a person-to-person level.

With online video set to account for 69% of all consumer-related Internet traffic by 2017, it’s no wonder thousands of businesses have jumped at the chance to tap into this video revolution.

So how can you replicate the same success? Here are five ways you can use Facebook Live to market your small business:

1. Go behind the scenes

With live video streaming, there are no edits, no cuts and no captions. Using Facebook Live to broadcast your business in action is a fantastic way to show your audience what makes you, you. Whether it’s a quick tour of the office, or a run through of how your product/service is made/delivered, giving your audience a glimpse into an otherwise off-limits world can help you humanise your brand and show customers you’re more than just a logo.

2. Schedule a live Q&A session

Facebook Live is a two-way channel, allowing anyone tuned in to a broadcast to type messages and comments for the broadcaster to view in real time. This makes it a great platform for Question and Answer sessions, where businesses can learn a thing or two about their customers and pave the way for great customer service through problem solving. Create a Facebook event to schedule your Q&A session, and let your followers know that you’ll be broadcasting live to answer their questions on the spot. This shows your brand is authentic, transparent and trustworthy – all vital ingredients of a successful marketing strategy. After the broadcast has ended, it helps to save the video and publish it onto your business’ Facebook page, allowing viewers to go back to the Q&A for later reference.

3. Broadcast an event in action

Are you at a conference, a store opening or some other place you would love others to get a glimpse of? Why not share it live? Facebook Live provides a great platform for businesses to live stream events in action. Engage with your audience by walking and talking them through the event, and answering any questions that are sent your way.

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4. Host a ‘how-to’ or product demonstration

How-To’s and product demonstrations are fantastic ways to promote your business’ products or services, and reach a wider audience at the same time. While a well-written product description will never go out of fashion, a live product demonstration gives your audience the kind of insight into your offerings that words simply can’t rival. Give your audience a step-by-step tutorial, and show them how they can get the most out of their purchase.

5. Break news and share your expertise

Facebook Live gives you the power to not only react to breaking news, but also share it with your customers and add your own thoughts and opinions. Doing so establishes your authority on your area of expertise and adds extra weight to your business’ credibility.

Facebook Live is touted to be social media marketing’s ‘next big thing’, but it’s important to note that there’s absolutely no obligation to use it. If Facebook Live just doesn’t sit right with your business, that’s 100% okay. If it does, massive opportunities are up for grabs. With a little planning and creativity, you’ll be a leap ahead of competition when it comes to Facebook Live.

So what are you waiting for?