One of the most common questions I get from Belton and Raymore business owners is: "Should I be on Facebook or Instagram?" The answer isn't one-size-fits-all, but I can help you figure out what's right for YOUR business.
The Reality: You Don't Need to Be Everywhere
Trying to maintain a presence on every social media platform is a recipe for burnout and mediocre results. It's far better to do one platform well than three platforms poorly.
Facebook: Best For
• Businesses targeting customers 35+ • Service-based businesses (plumbers, electricians, accountants) • Businesses that benefit from community groups and events • B2B local businesses • Businesses with longer sales cycles
Why Facebook works: Your customers are already checking it daily for local news and community updates. Facebook groups are powerful for local engagement. The platform is excellent for sharing detailed information, events, and building long-term relationships.
Best Facebook content: Community updates, educational posts, customer testimonials, event announcements, behind-the-scenes stories.
Instagram: Best For
• Businesses targeting customers under 45 • Visually-driven businesses (salons, restaurants, boutiques, fitness) • Businesses with photogenic products or results • Lifestyle and wellness businesses • Businesses with quick purchasing decisions
Why Instagram works: It's a visual platform that showcases your work immediately. Stories create daily touchpoints. The younger demographic is highly engaged. Great for building brand personality and lifestyle appeal.
Best Instagram content: Before-and-afters, product showcases, day-in-the-life stories, user-generated content, quick tips in Stories.
My Recommendation for Belton & Raymore Businesses
If you can only choose one:
Restaurants, cafés, salons, boutiques, gyms: Start with Instagram Home services, professional offices, auto shops, B2B services: Start with Facebook
The ideal approach: Post the same core content on both, but optimize it slightly for each platform. Use Facebook for longer captions and community building. Use Instagram for visual impact and Stories for daily engagement.
Don't Overthink It
The best platform is the one where your ideal customers actually spend time AND the one you'll consistently post on. If you hate taking photos, Instagram might not be your jam. If you're camera-shy, Facebook's text-focused posts might suit you better.
Start with one platform. Do it well. Get results. Then consider expanding to a second platform if you have the bandwidth.
The Bottom Line
Most Belton and Raymore small businesses will see the best results with Facebook because that's where the local community is most active. But if you're in a visual industry targeting a younger demographic, Instagram might be your winner.
The platform matters less than your consistency and strategy. Pick one, commit to it for 90 days, and measure what happens. You can always adjust from there.