Why Hiding Your Prices on Social Media Is Hurting Your Business (And What to Do Instead)
If you’re a local business owner in Malta or Gozo using Facebook to promote your products or services, you’ve likely heard (or typed) the phrase “PM sent” far too often. While it might feel like a clever way to drive private conversations, it’s actually doing more harm than good to your sales process, customer trust, and conversion rates.
In this guide, we’ll break down:
Why “price pls” comments are a red flag
The hidden cost of sending private messages instead of being upfront
A proven step-by-step method to streamline your social media offers and get better leads
Let’s get into it.
1. What Happens When You Hide Your Prices on Facebook
When users ask for a price and get “Sent you a PM” in response, they:
Feel like you’re hiding something
Lose interest quickly if they can’t get instant info
Might not even see your message in their “Message Requests”
And if they do respond, the lead is often cold by the time the conversation starts.
2. Why Businesses Keep Doing It (And Why It Needs to Stop)
The Most Common Reasons:
You think it builds curiosity
You’re trying to negotiate differently per customer
You feel competitors might undercut you
Why It’s Outdated:
Today’s buyers want speed and transparency
Facebook’s algorithm favors public engagement (not hidden chats)
Most serious customers won’t wait for a DM
3. The Real Cost of “PM Sent” Replies
💸 Missed Opportunities:
People are likely to scroll past your offer if pricing isn’t immediately clear.
📉 Lower Engagement:
Public price info encourages discussion, shares, and saves. DMs don’t.
😐 Lost Trust:
Customers may associate private messaging with sketchy sellers, not legit businesses.
4. The Psychology of Transparent Pricing
When someone sees a product they like, they want two questions answered immediately:
Is this what I need?
Can I afford it?
Disclosing your pricing up front:
Filters out bad-fit leads
Attracts serious buyers
Builds immediate credibility
5. When Should You Share Your Prices Publicly?
Always — unless your service is fully bespoke and can’t be quoted without a consultation.
You should post:
Fixed product prices (with or without tax)
Price ranges for service packages
“Starting from” prices when needed
Optional upgrades or extras clearly labeled
6. Where to Share Your Pricing
On Facebook:
In your original post caption
As a reply to “Price pls” comments
In a pinned comment with product details
On Instagram:
In your image carousel (slide 2 or 3)
In captions (clearly and early)
With a link in bio to pricing page
On WhatsApp/Stories:
Include price overlays on images
Use quick replies for FAQs like pricing
7. Step-by-Step: How to Present Offers on Social Media
Here’s a simple framework to follow for your next product or service post:
📝 Step 1: Write a Clear Headline
Example:
“Get a Custom Website in 10 Days – Starting at €750”
💡 Step 2: Add Key Benefits in Bullets
Mobile-friendly, fast loading
Includes booking form + Google Map
Ideal for local businesses in Malta & Gozo
📸 Step 3: Use Real Images or Clean Mockups
💬 Step 4: Include the Price (Fixed or Range)
Example:
“Prices start at just €750 — no hidden fees.”
🔗 Step 5: Add a Call to Action
Link to your site
Invite them to book a call
Drop a WhatsApp number
💬 Step 6: Reply to Comments Publicly
“It’s €750 — here’s the full breakdown 👇”
“You can get the full offer at smartmalta.com”
8. Key Points to Remember
✅ Hiding prices adds friction. Transparency builds trust.
✅ Clear pricing = faster decisions, fewer time-wasters.
✅ Public replies increase your engagement and reach.
✅ Use pricing as a filter — not everyone is your customer, and that’s okay.
💥 Final Thoughts: Be Bold. Be Clear. Be Smart.
In a digital-first world, customers expect instant answers. If you can clearly state what you do, what it costs, and why it’s worth it — you’ll earn trust, reduce noise, and start turning your followers into paying customers.
Need help setting up a proper landing page, pricing structure, or branded visuals for your social media strategy?
👉 Book a Free Website & Funnel Review with SmartMalta
Let’s cut through the fluff — and grow your business.