Tag Communications

1. Include a call to action in your posts

The best way to get fans to interact with your business on Facebook is to tell them how. Phrases like, “Check out this link,” “Like this status” and “Share this photo” are all specific ways fans can engage with your brand on Facebook.

2. Ask questions

Unlike traditional marketing, social media is vehicle for having a two-way conversation with your customers and potential customers. If you just talk at your fans, your marketing efforts are not going to be effective. Asking questions is also a great way to start the conversation, inspire comments and gauge the thoughts of your fans on a topic related to your product or brand.

3. Post photos and photo albums

Fans are two times more likely to interact with photos than a plain status update. That’s because the Timeline format is geared toward photo and video sharing. Try sharing a photo of your product, a funny or engaging picture related to your industry or even a photo album of the office potluck to share a behind the scenes look at your business.

4. Let current customers know you’re on Facebook

OK, this seems pretty simple. But you’d be amazed at how much fan growth you can achieve by posting a link to your Facebook page in your email signatures, website and marketing collateral. A “Like us on Facebook” decal in your storefront isn’t enough. Include the direct link to your Facebook page to make it as easy as possible for your customers to find you.

5. Host a contest

The easiest way to drive engagement and grow your likes is by hosting a contest. Give away a product or a package that your fans would appreciate. But make sure you host the contest through a Facebook-approved app so you don’t violate Facebook’s terms of service. If that sounds a little overwhelming, TAG Communications can help set up and manage a contest for your business to maximize engagement and fan growth.

Stephanie De Pasquale-Soebbing specializes in social media marketing at TAG Communications, Inc. Email her at .(JavaScript must be enabled to view this email address).