When it comes to Social Media engagement it is always a good idea to learn from the experts. In this regard we spend a good amount of time browsing social media marketing sites that are knowledgeable about what works and what doesn’t. We found a recent publication “How to make your Facebook page a fan favorite” from the social media experts “Wildfire” to have some very good content that all who are interested in improving their social media presence should consider.
Facebook is undoubtedly the most important social media tool currently available. I recently wrote about how Facebook “likes” and “shares” have been delegated to one of the most important of Google’s SEO criteria in a page’s ranking. Yet social media is more than just about getting a top ranking, it is about building a community of loyal visitors who are passionate about your company and/or brand. As Wildfire notes, of the many posting options, there are certain messaging strategies that consistently prove to increase fan engagement. To ensure that your Facebook fans are getting the most out of your posts, there are a few important guidelines to consider.
In Wildfire’s own words:
First, humanize your brand by being personal, friendly, and unafraid to tap into the shared passions that brought you together in the first place. Always make your fans feel special and appreciated by giving them one-on-one or VIP treatment whenever possible—even if it’s just a thank you or a peek behind the scenes. And finally, keep things as simple as possible by making it easy for fans to respond to your posts, and by letting them know exactly what it is you’d like them to do next.
Tap into fan passions
Make your Facebook page a platform for fans to express what they are passionate about. Much like with a blog, you should use the FB page to share what’s going on in your industry; talk about the latest trends, share photos, reports, and real life experiences. when you personalize your page by making it both fun and interactive people will respond favorably. Wildfire notes that brand pages excel that engage fans on a personal and emotional level.
Make it quick and easy for fans to engage
Wildfire notes that you should “Ask simple, closed questions.” Studies have shown that it is important to ask fans questions that are easy to answer, so “yes” and “no” questions are a good option. Most people visit Facebook pages as a fun diversion of their otherwise hectic day, so engagement attempts also need to be fun. A visitor poll can be a good option here.
Tell fans what you want from them
It is well know that the “call to action” works and has been used as a marketing strategy in many forms. In this regard, by asking someone to click “like”, or “like this post” you will definitely increase the likelihood that the action is taken.
The #1 reason fans “Like” you? Exclusive access
Wildfire notes that you should treat your fans like VIPs, and goes on to explain that exclusive information, internal photographs, videos, coupons, and giveaways get the highest amount interest and entries on average. I personally think the idea of providing Facebook only content just makes sense. So for your next contest or coupon, consider adding it just to your Facebook page.
Invite one-on-one interactions
Another wildfire suggestion is to “take the relationship to a new level” by responding to fans personally by addressing them by their name whenever possible, and responding to their comments one-on-one. This is another good suggestion, and when you think about why social media is so popular, it just makes sense. We all like to feel special, and personal attention/response is part of this.
Take your relationship to the next level
Wildfire notes that you should actively invite personal conversation with your fans by soliciting their opinions on relevant topics or asking them what types of content they want to see, and then acting on their responses. One of my clients (Kauai Camper Rentals) has invited their Facebook visitors to post photos and share their experiences about their experience on Kauai and their services. This has resulted in a lot of responses, and yes, “likes”.
Let your fans see the real you
Provide “behind the scenes” views of your business in operation. This is a really good idea, since relationship building (and trust) is in essence the sense that we know the “real” person, or people behind the business/organization. One of my clients (Feist Cabinets) consistently provides behind the scene images, and shares information about their industry and designs.
In summation, Facebook is a tool that when utilized effectively will make it easy for people to learn about your company or services, yet moreover to be engaged in an ongoing fashion and timely way. While websites are still the backbone of a business or organization’s online presence, social media provides the added benefit of “what’s new” content and resources. Of course if you need help with your Facebook presence please feel free to contact me.
Thank you for this useful information , I plan on implementing some of the things you mentioned.