There are many benefits and strengths for both Pages and Groups on Facebook and they each offer something different for the user and depending on what you want to use it for one may be more beneficial than the other.

Ownership

Pages have to be started by a representative of the company so in most cases users can be sure that the page has been set up by the company and is controlled by them. Groups can be started by anyone, however if branded correctly and linked to your company page users can be sure that they are connecting with the business they want to connect with.

Connecting

Pages are free for anyone to like by simply clicking on a button but groups (depending on their visibility e.g. open, closed or secret) often require an invite. However, this could be advantageous. Pages allow for very little interact between you and your fans unless your fans write to you or interact with your content. A group provides much more scope for a discussion and if you have invited specific clients to it they will feel special and are more likely to engage.

Usage

Business pages are commonplace on Facebook and act very much as a shop front where everyone can see and engage with your content. That’s great, but how do you really connect with your core audience. Groups are perfect for this. You could use Facebook groups as focus groups for your products and services. Inviting your clients to work with you to improve the things they like about your business could be invaluable. Use groups to connect with the innovators amongst your fan base and get the most out of them in a forum away from your page, showing them how much you value their feedback and opinion.

What do you think? Let us know in the comment box below.

By Harriet Thacker

Harriet is a marketing expert, social media enthusiast and Shake Social’s champion blogger. Struggling to maintain your own blog? We can help!