Local Facebook groups are free marketing goldmines — if you use them the right way.
As the admin and owner of “What’s Up Kenmore?”, one of the largest Facebook communities in our area, I’ve seen both sides of the equation: as the person approving or declining posts, and as a social media marketer using groups to build visibility for my clients.
So let’s talk about how to make Facebook groups work for your business — without turning people off.
1. Don’t Just Post. Engage.
If you’re dropping a post and disappearing, you’re doing it wrong. Social media — and especially Facebook groups — thrive on interaction.
✔️ Like people’s posts
✔️ Leave thoughtful comments
✔️ Answer questions in the group
✔️ Thank people when they recommend you
✔️ React to responses on your own posts
Whether you’re posting from your business page or a personal profile, showing up consistently builds trust and keeps your name top of mind.
This isn’t just a group-specific rule — it applies to all platforms. You have to show up for your community if you want them to show up for your business.
2. Stop Hard Selling. Start Solving.
No one wants to be sold to 24/7. But they do want help.
Here’s how I use this mindset with my clients:
🧭 Someone in the group asks about the village-wide garage sale? I jump in with a registration link — from the Kenmore Village Improvement Society page.
☕ Someone’s looking for the best cold brew in Buffalo? I comment from Red Otter Coffee and mention our signature drinks.
💡 Someone asks about indoor craft markets in the winter? I link to the Made for Good shop and our seasonal events.
Be a helpful voice, not a pushy ad. Meet people where they are — and show them how you can help.
3. Hook First, Sell Second
When you do post in a group, don’t lead with a flyer and call it a day. Instead, think like a storyteller or problem solver.
Examples:
- “Looking for shade and a cold drink this weekend? 👀”
- “Here’s how one business is giving back to the Kenmore community…”
- “Trying to beat the heat and support local?”
Always ask: Would I stop scrolling for this post?
4. Respect the Group Rules
This might seem obvious, but it’s the rule I see broken the most.
Before posting, read the group’s rules. Every admin has different boundaries, and violating them can get you banned or marked as spam.
For example, in “What’s Up Kenmore?”, we have the following guidelines:
Business & Event Posts:
- Kenmore-based businesses may post once per month.
- Ken-Ton orgs (like nonprofits or libraries) can post once per event per month.
- MLMs (Color Street, Scentsy, etc.) are not allowed.
- Frequent promotions? Use Meta Ads instead of spamming the feed.
Knowing the rules helps you get your posts approved — and keeps your reputation clean.
5. Real Results: Why This Works
When Red Otter Coffee opened its doors, I posted once in “What’s Up Kenmore?” about our soft launch.
That day, people came in and told the baristas they saw it in the group. That’s proof that one thoughtful, helpful post can directly lead to foot traffic and new customers.
Not every platform gives you that kind of direct community-to-business connection — but Facebook groups do.
TL;DR: Local Facebook Groups Work — If You’re Genuine
✅ Be a good neighbor, not a walking ad
✅ Show up for your community before asking them to show up for you
✅ Use a voice that’s warm, helpful, and authentic
✅ Follow the rules
✅ Don’t spam — be useful
When you do this well, your business becomes more than a name. It becomes a trusted part of the neighborhood.
And that? That’s marketing money can’t buy.
