It was just earlier this week that Facebook announced their new tagging tool for easily tagging your friends in updates.  Immediately we hopped on to try it out since we had grown accustomed to this on Twitter.  It was pretty cool and we like how the name appears when you begin typing "@" and then you can select and have it autofill.  Very cool.

However, it was a discovery we made today that had us realizing the true potential of this new tool.  Prior to this feature, a brand page could never comment on a user page or on another brand page.  You might think that's not such a big deal, but then think about all the companies you partner with - suppliers, vendors, clients, non-profits.  Now, imagine being able to leave a note of thanks on their page.  Or tag them in a note about an upcoming event you are working on together.  Now you not only reach your audience - you also reach theirs.

This is where we start getting really excited because it goes back to being about a RELATIONSHIP.  Tagging people or other pages helps them know you are talking about them and helps you broaden your reach to their audience and as they reciprocate, the same happens for them.  It's about synergy and harnessing the true power of partnerships - and that is AWESOME.

So, here are a few things you need to know to start doing this on your own:

1. To tag as a brand, you have to be able to post as a brand which means you have to be an administrator for that page.
2. If you want to tag a person, group or brand page, you must personally be a friend or fan of that page. 
3. To do the actual tagging, read the instructions on the Facebook blog and that will help you get started - it's pretty easy though.  

Now, start thinking about the companies you work with and want to build a stronger relationship with and get posting.  We are still just learning the potential with this feature, but so far we're big fans!