Blog 2: How to Set Up a Facebook Page for a Campaign
- Sep 23, 2024
- 4 min read
Updated: Sep 24, 2024
Understanding the Differences: Campaign Page vs. Candidate Page, Profile, and Group
Before setting up a Facebook page for your campaign, it's important to understand the differences between the various options on Facebook:
Facebook Campaign Page:
This is a public page created to promote a specific campaign or cause (e.g., advocating for a policy, fundraising for a community project). It allows you to post updates, engage with followers, and promote your campaign goals.
Who should use it?: Groups or individuals running issue-based campaigns, nonprofits, or movements.
Example: “Mid Sussex Winter Fuel Support Campaign.”
Facebook Candidate Page:
A candidate page is dedicated to a specific individual running for office. It helps the candidate build a personal connection with voters, share campaign promises, and respond to community issues.
Who should use it?: Candidates running for political office who want to maintain a public-facing professional profile separate from their personal Facebook account.
Example: “John Smith for Mid Sussex MP.”
Facebook Profile:
A profile is your personal Facebook account. It allows you to connect with friends, share personal updates, and join groups. It’s not ideal for professional or campaign use.
Who should use it?: Individuals who want to maintain a personal presence on Facebook.
Facebook Group:
A group is a space for discussion and community-building around a shared interest. Groups can be public or private, and they allow members to post and engage with one another.
Who should use it?: Campaigns or communities that want to foster discussion, mobilize volunteers, or create event-driven engagement.
Why Create a Campaign Page?
A dedicated Facebook page for your campaign helps establish a focused presence online, separate from personal or broader association content. It allows you to:
Focus Messaging: Keep campaign updates clear and relevant.
Engage the Community: Build a space for supporters to stay informed and participate.
Create a Professional Image: Present a well-managed and professional front for your campaign.
Step 1: Creating the Campaign Page
Access the Facebook Menu
Desktop: Click the nine-dot menu (grid icon) at the top-right of Facebook’s homepage.
Mobile: Tap the three horizontal lines at the bottom or top-right of the screen.
[Insert Screenshot of Facebook Menu Access]
Select "Pages"
In the menu, click Pages under the “Create” section.
Create a New Page
Click Create New Page and begin filling out the details for the campaign’s page.
[Insert Screenshot of Create New Page]
Step 2: Customizing the Campaign Page
a. Page Name and Category
Choose a name that clearly reflects the campaign’s purpose (e.g., "Mid Sussex Winter Fuel Support Campaign").
Make sure it’s easy to find and clearly identifies the campaign.
Select the appropriate category, such as Nonprofit Organization or Cause, to help Facebook recommend your page to relevant audiences.
[Insert Screenshot of Category Selection During Setup]
b. Writing the "About" Section
Write a short, clear description that explains the purpose of the campaign and key contact details.
Example: “The Mid Sussex Winter Fuel Support Campaign aims to protect vulnerable pensioners by opposing cuts to the winter fuel budget. Join us in advocating for a warmer, safer winter.”
[Insert Example of Campaign Bio]
Step 3: Choosing a Profile and Cover Image
Profile Picture
Use a logo or image that represents the campaign (e.g., the campaign logo or an image symbolizing the cause).
Cover Photo
The cover photo should capture the essence of the campaign. It could include visuals of key issues, campaign slogans, or relevant events.
[Insert Example of Campaign Profile and Cover Image]
Step 4: Posting as the Campaign
a. First Post
Introduce the campaign with a welcome post that explains the campaign’s goals and encourages people to follow the page. Use a call to action like, “Follow us for updates and ways to get involved!”
[Insert Example of First Campaign Post]
b. Regular Updates
Keep your audience engaged by posting regularly. Share campaign milestones, events, and updates.
Step 5: Multimedia Content Examples
a. Using Videos
Beginner Tip: Create a simple “walk and talk” video where the campaign leader or spokesperson explains the campaign’s goals while walking through a relevant location.
Example: A short video filmed outside a local landmark related to the campaign's focus, like a community center or local park.
b. Using Photos
Beginner Tip: Use photos to capture key moments. A simple picture of the campaign leader meeting with community members or standing near campaign signage can go a long way.
Example: A photo of the campaign team handing out flyers or meeting local residents.
c. Writing Engaging Text
Keep text posts short and personal. Write in the first person to connect with your audience.
Example: “Today was a great day talking with local families about our winter fuel concerns. Thank you for your support—let’s keep working together to make a difference!”
[Insert Example of Multimedia Content]
Step 6: Paid Ads and Digital Imprints
a. Paid Ads Planning
All campaigns should work with the Digital Officer when it comes to paid ads. Communicate your advertising needs and make sure to get approval for ads, ensuring they align with the campaign’s goals.
b. Understanding Digital Imprints
A digital imprint is a legal requirement for all political campaign materials online. It ensures transparency by making it clear who is responsible for the content.
Where to include it: Typically in the "About" section of the page and at the end of posts or ads.
Example Imprint: “Promoted by [Your Name] on behalf of [Candidate’s Name] of [Address].”
Step 7: Building Engagement on the Campaign Page
a. Encouraging Support
Use the Invite Friends option to ask people in your network to like the page and share it with others. This is an easy way to build your follower base.
b. Responding to Comments and Messages
Engage actively with followers by responding to their comments and questions. This builds trust and a sense of community around your campaign.
[Insert Example of Comment Engagement]
Final Thoughts on Running a Campaign Page
Consistency and clear messaging are key to running a successful campaign page. Use multimedia content to keep your audience engaged and informed, and always stay responsive to feedback. A future blog will cover how to create effective campaign content and more detailed tips for creating videos, graphics, and posts.
