The new Private Messages for Facebook Fan Pages tool

Facebook is testing the ability for people to send private messages for Facebook Fan pages, which will simply allow Fans of a Facebook Page to privately contact, or message, the owner of the Fan page regarding any comments or questions.  This feature has been unveiled in Asia and is expected to make its way to the U.S. shortly.  Unfortunately for marketers, private messages for Facebook fan pages only go from Fan to Fan Page; page owners cannot privately message their fans.

Private Messages for Facebook Fan Pages | The Benefits

Private Messages for Facebook Fan Pages is a plus for community-building for brands, and another avenue for customer support outside of phone queues and emails.  First, a private message will keep the issue private.  Most businesses would prefer to handle complaints in a private manner rather than on an open Facebook fan page.  Second, the privacy may actually encourage more people to ask questions.  Some people fear looking ignorant and will avoid publicly asking a question.  Having a private message system in which to communicate with the page owner should open the field for most questions.

Private Messages for Facebook Fan Pages | The Downside

Conversely, a potential downside to Private Messages for Facebook Fan Pages could be that the ‘private’ issue negates the “social” aspect of a social network.  Sometimes having a question public is a good thing, especially if it is a question that affects hundreds of other users or potential customers.  Another possible negative effect of this new private messaging feature could be lower rates of organic growth for business pages. Facebook shares each fan’s interactions with a page, showing likes, shares, comments, and other interactions fans make there, with their friends.  These interaction can help raise a page’s visibility.  Therefore, more private messages that occur could lead to less public comments, which could curtail this growth.

In summary, you the new private messages for Facebook Fan Pages has rolled out in Asia and should be rolling out in the U.S. in the near future.  Comment below and let us know what you think of the new private messages for Facebook Fan Pages feature.