For those who have a Facebook business page, you probably have noticed that on March 30, 2012, all pages will be switched to the timeline format. This changes everything from how we interact with business pages to how we brand our pages. Previously, I asked if you were ready for Facebook`s New Timeline Design and today I`m going to give you a few tips that will help you set up your business page with the new timeline.
The first thing you will notice is that the 5 thumbnail pictures at the top of your page will be replaced with what is called a cover photo. The cover photo will be the first thing people will notice when they visit your page.
What is a Cover Photo?
The cover photo is the image that best represents your brand. The photo might be your most popular product line, it could be the book you wrote, or even a picture of your staff interacting with customers. The photo should be high quality and not grainy looking. Remember a picture is worth a 1000 words.
All cover photos are public. Anyone who visits your page will be able to see the cover photo. You can always display the same photo or change it often as you like.
What Size is the Cover Photo?
Cover photos are 815 pixels wide x 315 pixels high.
Facebook Guidelines
It is important to note that Facebook has implemented guidelines for cover photos. Cover photos are not to be deceptive, misleading, or infringe on anyone else”s copyright. You may not upload your cover photo to personal timelines.
Taken from Facebook`s Pages Terms & Conditions page, your cover photo CANNOT have any of the following:
- Price or purchase information, such as “40% off” or “Download it on socialmusic.com”;
- Contact information such as a website address, email, mailing address, or information that should go in your Page”s “About” section;
- References to Facebook features or actions, such as “Like” or “Share” or an arrow pointing from the cover photo to any of these features; or
- Calls to action, such as “Get it now” or “Tell your friends.”
When Does This Take Effect?
All timelines and cover photos will be live on March 30, 2012. To adopt the new timeline format early, click on the green Publish Now button at the top of your page. I recommend you click on the start button to become familiar with the new changes. You may also log out of Facebook and click here to get started.
When deciding the best cover photo for your brand, you can work in preview mode and no one will be able to see your cover photo until you click the Publish Now button.
Cover Photo Examples
For inspiration, check out these great examples of business pages using the new timeline format.
Would love to hear your opinion about the cover photos – thumbs up or thumbs down?
If you have a great cover photo you would like to share, leave a comment, and introduce your company with a link to your Facebook page.
