Compared to Google and other online ad networks, Facebook ads are a fantastic bargain. Unlike many other online advertising opportunities, Facebook offers unprecedented demographic controls, allowing advertisers to show their ads to the most qualified prospects on the site. Best of all, budget controls paired with analytics that are updated in real time mean businesses can start advertising with a modest budget and adjust spending on the fly based on fresh results.

Businesses that are not ready to spend money on ads can still benefit from having an active business page. “Likes” and comments provide a kind of endorsement that is invaluable to small businesses. Plus, activity on a business page can help bring fresh eyes to a business.