It seems that the “Like” count is no longer relevant to Facebook Pages. It doesn’t reflect a Facebook Page’s real reach. Many users often “Like” a Page as a favor but then unfollowed them. Last July 2020, the platform experimented with removing the “Like” button on selected Pages of some creators and public figures. Today, Facebook launches a new design for Pages.
New Design for Pages
The new design for Pages no longer shows the “Like” button on the Main Page. The “Follow” button became more prominent with the follower counts. The profile image appears on the center of the screen to give it more attention.
This new design for Pages makes a lot of sense. Facebook removes “Likes” and focuses on “Followers” to simplify the way people connect with their favorite Pages. People who liked a Page will see the Page’s posts on their news feed. While people who followed a Page mostly gets an alert for any update on the Page. Unlike Likes, followers of a Page represent the people who can receive updates from Pages, which helps give public figures a stronger indication of their fan base.
New Control Options
Facebook also adds new control options to the new design for Pages.
- The platform makes it easier to switch between a Page and a personal profile.
- A dedicated News Feed shows on the Page for admins and creators to better connect with their followers.
- A “Follow” button shows on verified Facebook users on a post’s comment.
- New integrity and safety features are also in place to detect impersonation, phishing, and spammy content.
Facebook launches a new design for Pages on 06 January 2021.
Implications for Marketers:
Facebook’s new design for Pages makes it easier for users to see key information on a Page. At the same time, it also makes it easier for admins and creators to check the power of their Pages and posts. For marketers, removing the “Like” button signals the need to create more interactive posts. Brands should encourage their audiences to click a CTA, leave a comment, or share a post, to better connect with them. As such, it means better engagement metrics.