As lots of folks know, Facebook has become pretty important to companies who want your business (as well as some free advertising!) There are tons of coupons out there that are only available by “liking” a product on Facebook, but Facebook really isn't for everyone. (I understand!)
I struggle a lot with how much time I personally spend on Facebook, because there are so many things I'd rather do in my day. As a blogger, I'm a little stuck and definitely love the power of Facebook marketing, but Facebook can be an enormous time-sucker. If you'd like to get deals from Facebook but don't want to get sucked in, here's how to create a Facebook account and maintain your privacy on Facebook:
- First, you'll want to create a “coupon” email account. This will help you to streamline all those coupon deals and you can use it for all coupon signups, including your facebook profile! (I use gmail and love it, so that's the one I'd recommend.)
- Then, visit the Facebook.com site.
- Sign up for an account. Use the coupon email to sign in that you just created (I would recommend choosing a pretend name and not giving out your real first and last name – i.e. Penny Pincher)
- Once you've signed up, it will ask to find friends on Facebook. Click “Skip this step” at the bottom of the page.
- Then it will ask you to fill out your profile info. Again, click “Skip.”
- Next it will want you to set your profile picture. Click “skip” one more time.
- Then check your coupon email inbox for a link that showing how to complete the sign up process and click on link to sign up.
- Facebook would love for you to find friends and get involved, and if you want to that's fine. (But I'll warn you, the temptation to stay away from it can be awfully hard!) If you don't put in any personal information, you'll still be able to access the offers, but won't be seen on Facebook.
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Thanks for the good information. However, those setting up a coupon only Facebook page may want to be aware that Facebook is notorious for changing its privacy policy. Here are a couple articles that may be of help. 🙂
http://askbobrankin.com/is_facebook_tracking_your_online_activity.html
http://www.businessinsider.com/this-is-how-facebook-is-tracking-your-internet-activity-2012-9?op=1
It has been a few months ago, so I don’t totally recall all the specifics, but I ended up setting up a facebook in much the same way (skipping as much as possible). I actually used my real name, but because I don’t have texting capability on my cell phone, I couldn’t enter a mobile number for authentication (or whatever they call it). It was a real mess for me, trying to “prove” to facebook that I am who I am and am a real person with my name, just to gain access to facebook to get these great coupon offers.
Just wanted to let folks know that it may not be quite as easy as they’d hoped, at least if they aren’t willing (or able) to provide a textable mobile phone number — but it can be done, eventually! c:
I finally did it! Thank you! My first tries at a gmail name were already taken, but I finally picked a user that no one else had. My first try at facebook was rejected because they claim to “require” real names. Now if I can remember how to log in to both accounts I’ll be ready for coupons!
Yayyyyyy Susan ~ so glad it worked for you! 🙂 Did you all make it down to Blizzard Beach? (I actually meant to email you and find out… if I don’t hear from you here I’ll send you something!)
OMG!! Thank you. I hate Facebook but understand it’s a great tool for companies. I don’t really spend a lot of time on my FB account, but when I do, I don’t want to clutter up my personal stuff with coupon stuff. I was also looking for a way to separate my personal e-mail from “work.” This is great information. I love that you give us so much more than just coupon links. You are fast becoming my favorite site! Thanks again!
So glad it helps Amy! I’ve been meaning to write this post for ages and finally got it done this morning. Hope it works for you (and so glad you enjoy PPP!) 😉