Social media is mainstream now and is the primary place of commerce for most people and businesses. Historically, the success of a brand depended on foot traffic, which meant that location mattered a great deal. Nowadays, brick-and-mortar locations have transformed into web properties, particularly on social media platforms like Facebook and Instagram. If you’re in the process of expanding your business, then you want to get as many followers as possible. Passively, you could sit there and cross your fingers for people to find you. Although this can work, a more proactive approach could make things easier or possibly skyrocket your reach. Here are some ways to reach out and grab more followers.
1. Apply Hashtags
Hashtags allow people to find your content through the social media platform and via search engines. They allow your post to reach anyone looking for that type of content. Use hashtags whenever possible to increase exposure.
Some popular social media hashtags could be:
- #cutekittens
- #doglovers
- #savemoney
If you post about student loans for college, for example, you could try to include a relevant hashtag such as #studentloans.
2. Tag and Promote Tagging
Your posts and photos can include tags. Tags feature people and brands from other accounts on the same social media platform or elsewhere on the internet. When you tag something, it will appear on your post and typically also notifies the tagged user. Tagging is a fun activity that people enjoy, especially with a group or brand they favor. Tag any user or brand when you make a post to show that you’re active and ready to engage. At the end of your post, you can ask viewers to tag anyone who would like to consume or interact with it. It can be powerful during holidays and other events.
3. Change Your Profile and Cover Photos
Upon visiting your profile, users will see your cover and profile photos. Will they stay, or will they leave? An attractive image will entice them to further interact with your account, follow your brand, or even pay for a subscription. The best photos will have relevance to your brand and convey a unified theme. A botanical garden account, for example, could do well with a jungle theme with brown wood trim. A consistent theme will make you seem more professional and earn user trust.
4. Add Images and Videos to Your Posts
Posting often is just the first step toward building a following. People will delight in seeing your activities in their feeds, but you can do so much more to get them excited, instead. One easy way to boost exposure is to include a visual with every post. Including a visual with every post helps to attract attention from potential followers and draws in current followers. An appealing post will stop followers from scrolling further, even for just a few seconds. Consider it a success if your post is the one that successfully catches their attention and pauses their finger swipes.
5. Engage With Your Audience
Businesses may not respond to customer questions quickly, if at all. Big companies can afford to keep the audience engagements to a minimum, but small businesses and influencers can take advantage of social media interactivity for massive results. Followers on social media love getting responses from famous people or companies—if it’s specifically focused on them. Taking the time to listen to and interact with your audience can reap enormous benefits to your following and reputation. When possible, take the opportunity to recognize, thank, and help your audience. You’ll be glad you did.
Gaining Social Media Followers Takes Effort and Time
Everyone is on social media now, so getting in front of them is vital to growing your platform. Some people can luck out and become famous without lifting a finger, but a more proactive approach works best. Use these supplied activities to grow your following and possibly go viral overnight. No matter what happens, keep trying and never give up!
Featured image via Unsplash
