I am not a fan of gaming the system. Here's the thing. The person with the deepest pockets can game the system longer. That's just how it is. So, how does a small business (or blog) compete? It isn't with buying likes, adding to the coffers of social media sites because those are bottomless pitts. It is with having a quality product, customer service, web presence and building real relationships.
I know, it sounds like business hasn't changed much since the 1940's. (Actually, I have no idea how business was done in the 40's! I'm not that old!) It hasn't.
So what really works in business likes isn't the way?
- Sales people know that they go to networking events to meet people who will either buy from them or help connect them to people who will buy. Developing real relationships with people in real life (IRL) and online can help move you in the direction that you wan to be. Surround yourself with people who have the work ethic, the vision and the same energy you have or want. Don't hang with losers. (Sorry, to be harsh.)
- Having a reputable and honest website that people trust to hit the check out button on your site matters. If they think your site is sketchy why would they give you money?
- Building real content works. Write real words about your product, create real videos that show your product, share your message via social and on your site.
- Share your message enough to be noticed but not be annoying.
- Connect with your customers and audience. If someone asks a question on social; answer it. Reply to comments on your site. Answer your email. Show up.
I know a lot of accounts on Twitter and Facebook that have massive numbers of likes and followers. Some of that was gained legitimately, but a lot of that was bought by using click farms, ads or getting groups to like or follow. You might be envious of those numbers or worse you might be boasting about your numbers. Don't. If you aren't creating quality relationships with people who will either buy your product, read your blog, interact with you online or connect in a real way IRL then those numbers aren't worth a darn thing.
Bottom line: If you have massive likes on social but no one is buying your product the likes are meaningless.
Relationships matter. Show up. Be relentlessly authentic. Don't game the system; because the only one that you are cheating is yourself and your real potential.
Video by Veritasium - subscribe for great science videos