Facebook Live allows users to broadcast live video streams to their followers and friends on Facebook. It has become an extremely popular way for businesses, organizations, and public figures to engage with their audiences in real-time. However, Facebook does have some requirements that must be met in order to go live.
Facebook Live Eligibility Requirements
In order to go live on Facebook, you or your Facebook Page must meet the following eligibility requirements:
- Have an authentic, real Facebook profile in good standing (no violations of Facebook policies). Fake or bot accounts are not allowed.
- Personal profiles must have at least 100 followers and Pages must have at least 400 followers. This ensures you have enough of an audience to broadcast to.
- Accounts must be at least one month old before going live.
- Accounts must comply with Facebook’s Real Name policy requiring use of your authentic name.
- Pages and profiles must be free of any content restrictions or violations that would prevent the ability to go live.
Essentially, in order to use Facebook Live your account needs to be an authentic profile for a real person or organization that has already established somewhat of a presence on Facebook.
How to Enable Live Video
Once your Facebook account meets the eligibility requirements, you must enable live video functionality:
- Go to your Facebook Page or profile Settings
- Click on the Video tab in the left menu
- Toggle the switch next to “Live Video” to turn it on
This will activate Facebook Live capabilities for your account. Now when you create a new post, you’ll have the option to “Go Live.”
Going Live on Mobile vs Desktop
The live streaming functionality works a bit differently on mobile devices vs the desktop experience:
- Mobile: Open the Facebook app and swipe right to open the camera. You’ll see “Live” as an option to start broadcasting.
- Desktop: Create a new post and click “Live Video” to launch the live producer studio. This provides more controls and options for your broadcast.
So on mobile it’s quick and easy to tap Live and begin streaming instantly. But on desktop you get more configuration options for a more polished, professional production.
Facebook Live Video Guidelines
While live streaming on Facebook, it’s important to follow their guidelines around prohibited content and behavior. Violating these can result in your video being taken down and your account being restricted.
Here are some key Facebook Live guidelines to keep in mind:
- Don’t broadcast illegal, dangerous or pornographic content
- No hate speech, bullying, or harassment
- No gore or graphic violence
- No nudity or sexually explicit content
- Don’t violate others’ privacy
- Don’t promote restricted goods or services
- Don’t mislead viewers about voting processes
In general, stream content that’s respectful, follows the law, and is appropriate for all ages. Provide value to your viewers that aligns with your brand and business.
Best Practices for Going Live
Once you understand the basic requirements, here are some best practices for creating great Facebook Live videos:
Promote Your Broadcast
Get the word out about your upcoming live stream. Promote it across your other social media channels and send notifications to followers encouraging them to tune in.
Test Your Tech Setup
Make sure your internet connection is strong, your streaming device is charged, your camera angles are flattering, and your mic levels are optimized. Test everything beforehand.
Engage With Viewers
React to commenters and have a co-host help moderate the live chat and cue up questions. Making viewers feel included will keep them engaged.
Choose Intriguing Topics
Pick subject matter that will genuinely interest your target audience and inspire them to tune in. Consider trending topics related to your niche.
Watch the Clock
Facebook suggests optimal video lengths of 10-20 minutes. Longer than that and you may start losing viewer retention. Keep your stream tight, focused and concise.
Save and Repurpose Content
Once your broadcast ends, the video remains on your Page or profile for replay. You can also download it to edit into shorter clips or snippets to share across other platforms.
Review Analytics
Check your Facebook Insights after going live to analyze viewership stats and learn what content resonates most with your audience.
Streaming Software Options
If streaming directly from your mobile device or the Facebook Live producer platform doesn’t offer enough controls, you can use external encoding software to broadcast professional grade streams.
Some top third-party encoder options include:
| Software | Key Features |
|---|---|
| OBS Studio | Open source streaming app. Add overlays, multi-source scenes and more. |
| StreamYard | Web-based system. Allows multiple guests and screen sharing. |
| Wirecast | Multi-camera switching and encoding capabilities. |
| vMix | Ideal for complex productions with replay and ISO recording. |
Each platform has its own advantages based on your specific needs. Test out free trials to see which external encoder you prefer.
Getting Started With Facebook Live
Here are the key steps to begin live streaming on Facebook:
- Ensure your account meets eligibility requirements
- Activate Live Video in your Settings
- Download the Facebook app on your mobile device or use the desktop producer
- Click “Go Live” or “Live Video” to start your broadcast
- Promote your stream and engage viewers with compelling content
- Review analytics and find ways to improve for next time
It may take some trial and error at first to get comfortable streaming live. But the more you do it, the easier it gets.
Reasons Businesses Go Live on Facebook
There are many potential benefits for brands using Facebook Live compared to static posts:
- Real-time engagement: Viewers can comment, react, and interact in real-time creating excitement and buzz.
- Behind-the-scenes access: Give exclusive sneak peeks and inside access fans can’t get elsewhere.
- Instant feedback: Get viewers’ immediate reactions to products, announcements, etc. to guide your content.
- Personable transparency: Streaming shows the authentic, human side of your brand.
- Drive website traffic: Send viewers to product pages, blogs, sales, etc. with live video CTAs.
- Boost reach: Lives videos have higher visibility in the newsfeed than regular posts.
There are endless creative ways for companies to leverage Facebook Live to deepen engagement with their most loyal followers and customers.
Conclusion
Facebook Live is an exciting and interactive way to share engaging video content. By understanding the requirements, following best practices, and tapping into the key benefits, brands can effectively incorporate live streaming into their broader social strategy. Just remember to put the audience first by crafting content tailored specifically for Facebook viewers.