Facebook Fan Pages are gaining popularity due to their high adoption rates among Facebook’s 300+ million users. Currently more than 10 million users become fans of Pages each day. However, the basic fan page layout is quite cookie cutter, so adding some simple modifications can really make a Fan Page standout and land those valuable fans. Not only will this look great, but it is easy and cost effective, unlike a custom built and branded Facebook Application.

The average Facebook Page would look like the following:

The main features are the different tabs (called ‘boxes’) that make up the overall look of the page. The standard items on each Facebook Page are “Wall” and “Info” while popular applications (show up in separate tabs) and “Photos,” “Discussions,” “Videos,” and “Notes.”

What all of these items are lacking – is the ability to modify a page so that the visual appearance could match that of your website, promotional material or landing page. One simple application can add this functionality to your pages and pull in Facebook statistics as well.

The application Static FBML will allow you to create a new tab on your Facebook Page that can be completely customized to mimic your web presence by displaying HTML and FBML so that you can render a truly customized section for your fans. Here is a step-by-step look at how you can implement this tactic.

First, you must have an active Facebook Page that you have admin access to. Then, head over to the Static FMBL Page and choose the “Add To My Page” link:

Once clicked, you will have the ability to choose a page (or pages) that you can add this application to. The application will then be added to the chosen Page(s) and will be labeled “FBML.”

Next, you will want to click “edit your page” then choose to edit the “FBML – FBML” application.

This is where the magic happens and the customization occurs. You can use simple HTML to fill this page and really have it stand out from your competition. An important note is that javascript is not supported, so just stick with plain old HTML for best results.

There is also a good deal of helpful conversations which can enhance your troubleshooting within the “Discussions”  box of the FBML Page if you get stuck.  Sunkist has a great example of a customized FBML Page for their “Sunkist Team” if you are looking for a few creative ideas.

Now, you should have your customized look in the newly named box … but you are not done yet! If your newly created page is really important for your brand (timely promotion, special savings or just an all around improvement from your wall) you can set this new box as your default location that users will arrive on when they visit your site.

If you choose to do this, simply edit your “Wall Settings” and select your new box in the “Default Landing Tab for Everyone Else:” drop down tab.

That’s it! With these simple steps, hopefully you can truly step up the presence of your Facebook Page and differentiate yourself from the pack.  This method should be not only be a cheap way to achieve a customized look, but should also be extremely easy!