When it comes to Facebook, if you're a small business owner, you've probably noticed some changes in the past few months. Lately, it seems like it's been getting harder and harder to get anyone to see what you've posted. Looking at that little number underneath a post, it can be quite frustrating to see it equal to only a small percentage of those who actually like your page.

Well, things are about to get even harder in the world of social media. In a recent article, Facebook announced that beginning in mid-January, they are stepping up their efforts to block promotional posts from showing up in news feeds. For small businesses frustrated with the lack of organic reach, these changes seem to be rubbing salt in an already aggravated wound.

This leaves many owners and marketers scratching their heads, trying to figure out how to get their message out to the massives. While you are not going to get the reach you expected, Facebook can still be a useful outlet if utilized correctly.

To begin with, set your expectations for Facebook. No longer can you sell products, or drive significant traffic, by using your posts without paying to boost them. It's time to look at the site as a place to educate your customers and store information that potential consumers can view while researching you. Stay away from the advertising and focus instead on interesting facts, cool articles or fun pictures that will entertain viewers. Begin to utilize Facebook as more of a resource for customers looking for more information, as opposed to an advertising outlet (unless you're willing to pay, that is). 

When you do want to promote a sale or particular product, spending a couple extra dollars to promote the post can make all the difference in the world.

Learn more about the upcoming Facebook changes and how you can prepare for them here.