With approximately 1.7 billion active monthly users, marketers are well aware of the value of advertising on Facebook. According to HubSpot, businesses paid 122 percent more per ad unit on Facebook in 2015 than they did in 2014. With dozens of different ad objectives, placement options and product features available on the social networking platform, it's easy for marketers to feel overwhelmed when starting a campaign on Facebook's ad network. Here's a quick rundown of the network's top ad types for local businesses.
Brand Awareness
The first step to building a successful business is increasing customer awareness of products and services. The Facebook network offers numerous ways to promote brand recognition with photos, videos, slideshows and carousel ads on Facebook and Instagram. Carousel ads are unique in that they allow you to showcase up to 10 images and links within a single ad unit. For instance, if you own a restaurant, you could show off the top 10 dishes on your menu.
Lead Ads
If you've ever tried to fill out a form on a mobile device, you know how painful it can be. However, Facebook lead ads allow users to sign up for newsletters, consultations, test drives and quotes with several taps on their phone. When someone clicks on a lead ad, a form opens with the person's contact information automatically populated, based on the information they shared with Facebook - like their name and email address. This is an amazing user experience - especially if you are all thumbs, like me. Plus, it leads to increased conversion rates and leads for businesses.Local Awareness Ads
This ad objective can engage consumers as they are near or around businesses or key points of interest. For example, businesses could remind nearby consumers about purchases they need to make or encourage them to make an impulse buy. Additionally, businesses can use "get directions" or "call now" buttons to connect with the consumer and drive in-store sales.
It may sound cliche, but not all Facebook ad types are created equal. Take the time to brainstorm or reach out to us to determine which type would be the best fit for your business and your campaign strategy.
