In today's digital age, social media platforms like Facebook and Instagram have become integral tools for small business owners to reach and engage with potential clients. However, relying only on these platforms for running and advertising your business poses significant risks that every pet sitters and dog walkers should be aware of.
Over the last few years, many Facebook users have encountered glitches and faulty algorithms that can land them in what's known as "Facebook Jail." This term refers to situations where users are temporarily or permanently restricted from accessing their accounts, pages or groups due to various reasons, often without clear explanation. For small business owners who depend exclusively on Facebook for their online presence, such restrictions can have devastating consequences.
Imagine waking up one day to find yourself locked out of your Facebook account, along with losing access to your business page, your content, your reviews and all your valuable client connections. As Facebook and Instagram are now intimely linked, it is likely that accessing your Instagram account may also be compromised. It's a scenario that may seem unlikely if you don't break any rules, but it's a real and legitimate risk that countless entrepreneurs have faced - and we know a few ourselves to whom it happened in our pet sitter communities!
From temporary bans lasting 24 hours to more severe penalties resulting in permanent deletion of accounts, the consequences can have long lasting consequences.
The site RECURPOST mentioned in their own article:"To get out of Facebook jail in the case of permanent blocking is borderline impossible. So, for business owners and marketers who have put in significant hours and effort into Facebook marketing, Facebook jail can be a complete destruction of resources."
The truth is, Facebook's terms and policies are often vague and subject to interpretation. What may seem like harmless content could be flagged by Facebook's algorithms as a violation, leading to swift punitive action against your account. It could also be as simple as a business competitor or an irate client reporting your page in an attempt to cause harm to your business. And the frustrating part? Facebook rarely provides detailed explanations or even investigate if the content flagged was indeed harmful, or if the reports were legitimate.
For pet sitters and other service-based businesses, losing access to their Facebook business page means losing a vital lifeline to their clients. In an industry where trust and reliability are paramount, the sudden disappearing of your page from the platform where clients expect to find you can severely damage your reputation. It's even more true if the page still exists but can't be accessed nor updated.
That's why it's essential for serious business owners to invest in a website, even if it's a small and simple one. A website serves as a stable and reliable alternative to social media platforms, ensuring that clients can still find you (hello Google, my old friend...) even if you're temporarily or permanently separated from your Facebook "front page".
Moreover, having a website adds an extra layer of professionalism to your business. It's a centralized hub where potential clients can learn more about your services, read testimonials, and easily contact you. If you've ever used Facebook Direct Messages (DMs) to communicate with clients, you're likely no stranger to the frustrations that come with it. This method of communication can be incredibly unreliable, leaving both you and potential clients frustrated by the lack of notifications.
Unlike social media profiles, which can be drowned out in a sea of other content, a website provides a dedicated space for showcasing your expertise and building trust with your potential clients.
In conclusion, while social media platforms like Facebook can be valuable tools for promoting your business, relying solely on them carries inherent risks. By investing in a website, you not only safeguard your business against unexpected disruptions but also project a more professional image to your clients.
So, if you're serious about your pet sitting and dog walking business, it's time to consider building your own online home - and we know just the right business for that! 😋