Whether you like it or not, the Timeline feature in Facebook is here to stay…at least for now. This is the newest mandatory change to Facebook pages and since you can’t beat ‘em, let’s make sure you can join ‘em.
Here are a few must-dos this weekend to get you up to speed and help you update your page. If you want to really go above and beyond, check out the additional resources at the end of this post.
1. Add a cover photo – This is the big photo at the top of your page. Make sure this is more about the graphic and less about copy. You can not include any calls-to-action or your contact information here. The consensus is that Facebook hopes you’ll switch this out often to keep it interesting. On my page, I plan on highlighting the recipes and projects I’ve made recently.
2. Resize your thumbnail – Before Timeline, your thumbnail was pulled from your profile photo which was on the side of your page. Now it’s a separate photo that should be created specifically for this purpose. The size is 180 x 180 pixels. I’ve chosen to use my blog button.
3. No more landing tabs – Facebook has removed the default landing tabs. This seems to be the biggest disappointment, but if you had a welcome tab before, you can place it in the 1st 4 highlighted apps under your cover photo. I have yet to add any custom apps (please don’t judge me!).
4. Your about statement – Facebook has given this a more prominent place since it shows up before any other copy. This is a great place to include your elevator pitch (if you have one) that will get people interested in what you’re all about. If you are a local business information like your phone number will show up here too.
Here's my Facebook Timeline for Little Green Bow
Now I’ll leave it to the pros. These resources should help you get up and running beyond the basics in no time.
A step-by-step guide to setting up your new page from the authors of Facebook Marketing All-in-One for Dummies Guide.
Just how big can your cover photo be? This cheat sheet will help.
This blog post gives you 11 ways to modify your content strategy.
And here’s what Facebook has to say about Timeline.
Good luck integrating the new changes! I’d love to have you check out my updated Facebook page and would really love it if you clicked like.
And, if you have a Facebook page, please let me know in the comments so I can come by and say hi!