Get Around the New Facebook Page Algorithm

Have you noticed a dramatic shift in your Facebook Page engagement over the last several months? This due in large part to their algorithm upgrades, which has sparked some controversy over the motives such as encouraging users to purchase advertising.
Many Page owners have seen a decline in the visibility of their posts in the News Feeds, especially with the recent announcement on ‘Link Baiting,’ which I wrote about here. The good news is that there are several ways you can get engagement back and even grow your Fan base. Most of these strategies will encourage organic growth with some minor investment involved for advertising if you choose although not required.

1. Evaluate the look of your Facebook Page

Does your profile need to be updated? A good rule of thumb is to stay consistent with your graphics online and with all social media channels. Your Page should reflect who your business or brand represents, and appear professional with high-quality images and a brief description.

2. Connect with active and engaged Pages in your niche

There is strength in numbers, and if you develop active communication and a good relationship with some of the Pages that you follow, you might want to consider asking in a message for a share-to-share. Most administrators will say yes, as they, too, have experienced a decline in Fans and need to rebuild.

3. Host a Fan Page day

This is a tried and true method of creating excitement and buzz around your brand in addition to attracting more Fans. Create an eye-catching graphic, and encourage your community to share their page like this great example from Mari Smith:

4. Post ‘likeable’ content

Some ideas stay the same in marketing and sharing great images and content is still a big attraction to Facebook Fans. What people love to see are eye-catching graphics, headlines that make them want to know more, and posts that add value. Other ways to increase engagement and sharing are inspirational and encourage quotes as well as offering free tips and advice, which can work well in video format especially. The key is to post often such as 4-5 times a day for the most exposure. Here is a post that did particularly well on my Fan Page:

5. Cross promote other brands

A sure-fire way to build your Facebook Page is to interact and share content from active Pages in your niche. Not only is this method good for them, but also creates awareness of your brand to their fans as well when they see your comments. Page owners will love seeing their articles or other content on your Page, which increases the chances of yours getting shared also.

6. Expose your brand to other social networks

Take advantage of your other active communities like Twitter, Google Plus, Instagram and Pinterest. With the recent Facebook changes you don’t want to put all of your eggs in one basket! These are good places to build up your audience and later on invite to your Page.

7. Share enticing offers and contests

Does your brand have an exclusive promotion or event happening? Bring this opportunity into full swing and consider making these posts at certain times during the month. This creates a level of expectation and encourages people to ‘like’ your Page in order to get the deals not found on your website. Another great way to build engagement is to hold a Facebook contest just for your Fans, and encourage them to share photos, feedback, answers questions, or anything else that would pertain to your brand.

8. Keep track of your Facebook Page Insights

At the top of your Page a key place to visit is the analytics section under the Insights tab. There you can explore exactly how your posts are performing the the overall growth of your Page. Pay special attention to what your Fans like the most and build on that.

https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=gXrkiB337rw

9. Purchase a Facebook Ad

Because this growing social network wants to encourage advertising they have made it very easy to start a Facebook Ad campaign. Start with a small budget, and choose a focused demographic or target audience for the best results. These are now highly visible in the News Feed, and could help your brand get a nice push into Fan growth.

10. Ask questions or take a poll

People love to share their opinions and experiences, especially on social media. Not only will these types of posts give you more insight into who your target market is, but will also create conversations to engage in and build on for your Page.
Hopefully these tips will not only save your advertising budget on Facebook, but will encourage you to not give up on your Fan Page. The methods presented here have been tested over time, and work well on this ever-changing social network. Just remember to post often with content your fans will love and want to share and engage in and you will be well on your way to creating a robust community again.
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• Don’t give up on that Facebook Page just yet! – Click to Tweet
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