As a business owner or marketing manager, social media might feel like just another item on an endless to-do list. Yet, you know it’s important – you understand that social media is about gaining followers and then creating meaningful connections that support your business goals.
If you’ve ever wondered how to get more followers and keep them engaged, this guide is for you.
For a deeper understanding of how social media drives results, check out How Social Media Works.
Why Followers Matter
Followers on social media are much more than just numbers—they represent real people who are interested in your brand and what you have to offer. A growing follower base adds credibility, making your business appear trustworthy and established. It’s a signal to potential customers that your brand is active, relevant, and valued by others.
Beyond credibility, followers expand your reach. Each person who follows you has the potential to share your content with their own network, introducing your brand to a broader audience without the need for a large advertising budget. Most importantly, followers who feel connected to your business are far more likely to become loyal customers, advocates, or repeat buyers. Think of your social media audience as a dynamic, growing community of people invested in your brand’s story. The more engaged and aligned this community is with your goals, the greater the impact on your bottom line.
If you are questioning whether you are reaching the right audience on the right platform, read Which Social Media Platform is Right for Your Business?
Why Engagement Matters (More than just 👍)
While growing your follower count is important, engagement is what truly transforms social media into a powerful tool for your business. Engagement—likes, comments, shares, and messages—shows that your audience is actively interested in what you’re sharing. This isn’t just a vanity metric; engagement boosts your visibility on social platforms. Algorithms prioritise content with higher engagement, ensuring it reaches more people, both within and beyond your existing audience.
Engagement also deepens relationships. When your followers interact with your content, they feel more connected to your brand, fostering loyalty and trust over time. Moreover, engagement provides valuable insights into your audience’s preferences, challenges, and needs. Each comment, share, or reaction offers a glimpse into what resonates with your community, helping you fine-tune your messaging and content strategy.
If your engagement rates aren’t meeting expectations, see Why Does No-One 👍🏽 Your Social Media Posts? to learn more.
What Does Good Look Like?
It helps to set realistic expectations. Here’s what to aim for:
- Follower Growth: A steady 5-10% increase per month.
- Engagement Rates: 1-2% on Facebook, 2-5% on Instagram.
- Content Performance: Posts that consistently drive comments, shares, and saves.
Benchmarks can vary by industry, so reviewing detailed metrics like these social media benchmarks can help you refine your goals. Success isn’t about overnight virality; it’s about steady, meaningful growth.
For tips on tracking metrics, visit 6 Social Media Metrics to Track.
How to Get More Followers and Engagement
- Optimise Your Profiles
- Use consistent branding across platforms.
- Write clear, engaging bios that highlight your unique value.
- Include calls-to-action like “Follow us for expert tips on [topic].”
- Post Consistently
- Stick to a regular posting schedule.
- Aim for 3-5 posts per week to keep your audience engaged.
- Share Value-Driven Content
- Focus on content that educates, entertains, or inspires.
- Use videos, infographics, or behind-the-scenes posts to capture attention.
- For fresh ideas, check out Need Social Media Inspiration?
- Engage with Your Audience
- Reply to comments and messages promptly.
- Spark conversations by asking questions in your posts.
- Interact with other relevant accounts.
- Leverage Paid Ads
- Use small, targeted ad campaigns to boost visibility and attract followers.
- Promote your best-performing posts for maximum impact.
What’s a Viral Post & Why Does It Matter?
A viral post gets shared widely, often reaching far beyond your usual followers. While going viral can boost your follower count, increase visibility and drive traffic to your site.
However…it’s not always the best strategy. Chasing virality can backfire:
- Misaligned Audience: Viral posts may attract people who don’t align with your brand.
- Short Attention Spans: Viral moments fade quickly, offering little long-term value.
- Loss of Focus: Prioritising virality can distract from creating meaningful content for your core audience.
Viral moments often fade quickly, leaving businesses no better off—or even worse off—than before. Instead of chasing virality, focus on building a loyal and connected community. Prioritising engagement with the right audience will drive long-term value, including repeat business, referrals, and stronger brand trust—outcomes that a fleeting viral moment rarely delivers.
Why Use an Agency for Social Media Strategy
Managing social media effectively takes time and expertise. A professional agency can:
- Plan Strategically: Develop a content strategy tailored to your goals.
- Ensure Consistency: Maintain regular posting and a consistent brand voice.
- Provide Insights: Use analytics to refine your approach and maximise results.
An agency doesn’t just handle social media – they equip you with the tools and strategies to succeed. If you’re ready to make your social media strategy work smarter, talk to us —we can help you achieve your goals.
