Getting More Fans

How many fans do you have on Facebook? Followers on Twitter? Subscribers on YouTube? Connections on LinkedIn? (You get the idea.) Are you satisfied with that number? Having a high number of "likes" (or some other notation/gold star in the world of social media) does not necessarily directly transfer into new business -- or additional business. However, it does in certain ways indicate brand recognition and possible engagement. Some social media delinquents do not check their profiles/sites very often; others are on it constantly. Your goal -- as a small business in this type of environment -- should be to engage with the most of amount of people possible, both digitally and in person. In order to do that, gaining social media connections must be a priority.

Prioritize Connections

Social media connections -- particularly searching for them -- can be an extremely challenging task for a small business. Maybe you've hovered in the mid-200s for awhile in terms of Facebook fans, YouTube channel subscribers, etc. What are some ways to increase that number easily and simply?

1. Hold a contest based upon friend invites. Encourage participation through friend suggestion and referrals. Use shorter lengths of time in order that the contest remains focused. (Approximately 2 weeks is best.)
2. Publish discount coupons on Facebook for friends that mention a key word or phrase. This is a great way to generate buzz and increase the number of fans. When someone gets a great deal, they are highly likely to tell someone about it. Let it be you!
3. Spread your message word-of-mouth style and include social media messages within those other campaigns. When you include your links to Facebok/Twitter, etc. in other brochures, it will provide a constant reminder to potential fans.
4. Give stuff away. Give away detailed information about the use of popular products; give away products themselves; give away experiences. Perhaps one of the most effective ways to gain fans, this methodology allows others to talk amongst themselves about the amazing stuff you are giving away via a social media platform. In order to qualify for free stuff, ask people to give you pieces of information (email address, new fans, etc.) or link backs to your fan page or website.