Facebook Attracts Big Brands

Given how much time people around the world are spending on Facebook, it was inevitable that the biggest brands would be left with no choice but to join the bandwagon.

In some ways, a categorization of consumers by age, sex and location is paradise for advertisers since it allows them to target their messages with precision. Sears has reported satisfaction with its use of the medium to sell prom dresses to girls aged 15 to 17.

Other companies are showing that success on Facebook requires more nimbleness and creativity. Con Agra foods was interested in a means of promoting its new Slim Jim product. It built upon the "Super Poke" which allowed users to show off their spicy side, an apparent consequence of indulging in Slim Jim products. They were thus able to integrate their branding with standard social networking acts.

Visa, the world's largest credit card processor has plans to invest over $2 million in advertising on Facebook. Wherever the consumers go, brands and advertising money will follow.