Whether you’ve had a Facebook page for your Illinois video gaming business for years, or you still haven’t gotten around to making one, there are some common oversights we’ve noticed while checking out some local slot machine location's social media.
You can create a Facebook page even if you don’t have a personal page by visiting www.facebook.com and clicking “Create a Page for a celebrity, band or business”. From there, select “local business or place” and be prepared to fill out your business name, address, and phone number.
TIP: You should merge any unofficial accounts that might have popped up due to the lack of an official page (a result of customers checking in, posting pictures and reviewing your business when they can’t find a dedicated page). Find out how to do this in five easy steps.
In our initial search, we came across many slot machine locations that did not have business hours, an address, or a phone number listed on their page. This information is especially important if you don’t have a website for customers to find you (and if you do have a website, make sure to link that on your Facebook, too!).
You have the option to include other business details, such as parking information, price range, specialties (here’s your chance to humblebrag) and services (e.g. reservations, are kids allowed, take-out, outdoor seating, payments accepted). The more information you can provide, the more likely people will want to visit your establishment over others in the area.
TIP: Don’t forget to mention you have slot machines! Highlight any games you have that tend to be popular or have been paying out recently.
We can’t stress enough how important it is to keep your information up-to-date. This includes the contact information and business hours, as well as any specials or events. One page we came across during our exploration has a negative review because the business’s page offers a certain special that was no longer available when the customer visited. Customers do their research before spending their hard-earned money. Don’t lose their trust by continuing to promote a deal or fun event after the offer has expired.
TIP: Designate one person at your establishment to dedicate time each week to Facebook – responding to reviews and questions, updating specials and adding events. Time spent here will go a long way with your current customers and prospective patrons.
A picture says a thousand words, right? Make sure you’re saying the right things with your profile picture. It should be professional looking and should include your business name. If you want to highlight other parts of your business (read: unique features, themes, specials, video gaming) you should upload those to organized albums on your page, not use them as a profile picture. A cover photo is a great place to showcase what your business looks like on a busy day/night, or during a special event you held.
TIP: Check out this article on how to take better pictures for your business
We’ve mentioned this in an article about how you can really screw up your online presence, but it’s so important that we’ll mention it again. Whether the reviews are good or bad, you need to make sure you’re addressing them and thanking patrons for taking the time to provide input. It’s the best way to find out where you’re succeeding and where there is room for improvement.
TIP: It’s best practice to never hide or delete negative reviews – as difficult as that might be. Reach out to see if they would be willing to come back with a coupon or free play to make things right.
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