In April, Facebook debuted their new-and-improved “Like” button, allowing users to more easily connect with brands, services, and products across the Web. The old Facebook “Like” function only allowed users to connect within their Facebook networks. For example, if someone posted any content, their network of friends could click a button if they enjoyed the content. The new “Like” button takes this to a whole different level thereby allowing Facebook users click “Like” buttons on third-party websites.
The user’s Facebook profile will then be connected with the company’s Facebook page. The third-party “Like” button isn’t a one-time connection; it’s an open channel—like adding a new friend—that allows the third-party to update the user’s News Feed with news, offers, links, or photos. Already on Facebook, you can show your friends that you’re interested in their status updates, photos and links by clicking “Like.” In fact, the average user clicks “Like” on nine pieces of content each month.
You’ll begin seeing “Like,” or in some cases “Recommend,” buttons appearing on popular websites spanning a variety of industries, including NYTimes.com, IMDb, CNN.com, TIME.com, LIFE.com, Fandango, NHL.com, USA Networks, Levis.com, Univision and ABC.com.
For example, if I like a pair of jeans on Levis.com, my action will be shared with my friends on Facebook, where they can comment on it. I can also see which of my friends like the jeans on Levis.com.
For those of us in the hospitality industry, this means you can offer promotional rates, room photos, or special offers directly to people who are already interested in your services. Corresponding with GenaMedia’s Facebook Booking Tool, this will allow fans to “like or recommend” the current rate the property is offering, specific room type, or service itself on the website or Facebook. GenaMedia will have this feature on the www.genares.com website by the end of the week. This added functionality once again shows how quickly Social Media surpasses any other form of Marketing or Advertising, by specifically creating a more personalized style that has a much higher Return on Investment.
