You may or may not have a Facebook account but it's a great way to keep track of your friends and family that may be scattered around the country. But does your business have a Facebook page too? Having a Facebook page for your business is an easy and free way to develop a brand presence. It's also a good place to market goods and services to both current and future customers.

Though Facebook is more of social networking site and not strictly a professional network like LinkedIn, it's still a good place to develop a business presence. Facebook has been ranked as the most used social networking tool and it's an excellent resource for finding customers and spreading the word. If you're not already connected here are some steps to get started :

• Go to Facebook.com and create a profile: include photos, contact and website information.
• Add Friends: Search for current customers, classmates, associates. Facebook also allows you to choose friends of friends to expand your network.
• Join Groups: Find groups related to what you do (small business, marketing, etc.), your location (Skokie, Chicago) or your interests (basketweaving, square dancing). Or create your own group if one doesn't exist. Then interact with fellow participants.
• List Your Events: Show your friends where you will be speaking next or where your business will be providing sponsorship.
• Interact with others: Share messages with your friends, share comments on other profiles, introduce friends.

With a little effort Facebook is a great way to market your expertise and show your customers you care. For more information on using Facebook for small business check out the Facebook Marketing Bible at insidefacebook.com.

For more information on these and other small business resources contact Mike Buhmann, Reference Librarian, Skokie Public Library, 847-673-7774, mbuhmann@skokielibrary.info