One of the things that has always frustrated me when sharing content on Facebook is controlling the Facebook link thumbnail that is generated when you post a link on your Facebook Page.
This can be particularly frustrating if you’re sharing a link to a website that has an image that is perfectly optimized for Facebook, yet Facebook doesn’t seem to find the image.
As a result, you’re left to either upload your own image like this Facebook post or deal with an image that doesn’t fit the space like the one you see below.
Previous Facebook link thumbnail images
Bad image, bad message
While you’re at Facebook’s mercy for images, ultimately, this can affect how fans see your brand.
For example, if I chose to go with the improperly sized image from above, I’m basically sending the message to my fans that I don’t care how my content looks. I just want them to read it.
Posting quality content is ideal. It is equally important when sharing content on Facebook to have rock-solid images as well. These include the Facebook link thumbnail image Facebook sees when you share a link, photos included on photo posts, etc.
If you’re stuck in this situation, you have three options.
Option 1: Go with the images Facebook finds
While option 1 is the easiest to do, it can do the most harm to your brand because of the message it sends to fans – you don’t care.
Option 2: Facebook photo post
The second option is a little better. It does mean you’ll need to create a new, larger image (we recommend 600×600 px). In this situation, you’ll end up with a large image that’s visually appealing. To include your link, simply paste your link in the status update box and post it.
I like this option, but it means you need a graphics program (or a designer) to create something for you. You’ll also be devoting more time to finding images that fit the size of the post.
Option 3: Use a custom Facebook link thumbnail image
Hopefully you’re not satisfied with the first two options because option 3 is exactly what you need.
If Facebook happens to return images that are not properly sized, instead of settling, you can upload your own now. This way you can determine what Facebook link thumbnail image gets associated with your posts.
3 steps to creating a custom Facebook link thumbnail
Continue reading 4 steps to a better Facebook link thumbnail image