2 Big Facebook Updates and 3 More In Testing

Just when you thought you had mastered Facebook for marketing, the company rolls out two big Facebook updates. I also uncovered three more features that are currently in testing. Here’s what you need to know:

Page management and functionality changed quite a bit

Just a few weeks ago, you used to log into your business’s Facebook Page as the Page (aka, your business name). Now, you’re kept logged in as you (aka, your personal profile).

While this change is meant to make things easier, it really changes the way you access different functionalities of your Page. If you’ve felt confused by this change, here’s how to do all the basics:

1. Look through your Page News Feed: Look in the left column, and you’ll see a button for “See Pages Feed.” Click on that, and you’ll now be able to view content from all of the Pages your Page “likes.”
2. “Like” a Page as your Page: Click on the three little dots next to the “Message” button on your personal profile page. In the drop down menu, you’ll see the option “Like As Your Page.”
3. Comment on/like content as your Page: In addition to the usual, “like,” “comment,” and “share” buttons, you’ll see your profile photo on the right with a little downward arrow. Click on that, and you switch to your Page.

What does this mean for you? Take your time when using and managing your Page until you get used to these new functions.

Facebook Live launched a “response graph”

When someone replays a Facebook Live video, they’ll be able to see a graph of Reactions and comments made during the video. That’s pretty cool, but it’s also very useful – your viewers can now skip to the parts of the video that were deemed most interesting.

What does this mean for you? Your fans will be able to watch “the best of” your video and content – giving them more value in less time.

We’re watching three other cool features Facebook is testing

1. Facebook acquired a patent that will allow you to make a customized emoji.
2. Facebook is testing a feature that will let you respond to a status update with a video.
3. Facebook is testing categories on mobile app news feeds; some user’s feeds are being categorized by travel, music, TV and movies, food, and science.

What could all of these possible features mean for you? Let’s break them down:

1. Custom emojis: Lots of possibilities here, from branded emojis to contests for best custom emojis.
2. Video responses: Great opportunity to create stronger connections with your fans.
3. Categorized news feeds: Further refine what you share based on popular categories.

Yes, lots of changes, but change is good. Which potential feature are you most excited about?