No one really knows how the Facebook algorithm works – but what we do know is, the more engagement your posts get, the more likely Facebook is to show them to more people.
Easier said than done, right? Especially when you’re competing with posts from friends and family in your ideal customer’s busy timeline.
Well yes, it’s true that it is much harder for small businesses to get traction on organic posts these days. But it’s not impossible.
That’s why I’m sharing my 4-week, rinse-and-repeat Facebook posting plan with you. It’s filled with loads of ideas to engage your audience and can be used over and over again.
But don’t forget – the more you put in, the more you get out. That means you must post regularly and consistently, and make sure you respond to every comment and DM.
Week One
#1: Ask a question
Questions are great for social media because, when you read a question, you can’t help answering it in your head. Can you?
People are also nosy, so question posts encourage others to spend time on your page reading other people’s answers.
The trick with questions is to ask something that doesn’t involve too much of a time investment. E.g. Do you listen to music when you work or do you prefer complete silence? I’m looking for Netflix recommendations, can you help? What one thing would make your day better?
Once people answer your simple question, make sure you respond to their answer – don’t leave them hanging! Strike up a conversation by asking more questions if you can.
#2: This or that
People love giving their opinion.
Are you working on something that you could ask for your audience’s advice on? A new logo or workshop name perhaps?
Maybe you could ask your followers’ opinion on the colour of two items to find out which they prefer.
Or if none of those work, how about some more options: E.g.:
You can only pick one – Working from home or back to the office?
Post #3 Go live or (if that’s too scary) post a pre-recorded video
Introduce yourself, tell people about the therapy services you provide and ask them to get in touch if they have any questions.
Week Two
Post #1 How to…
What tip or trick could you share to impress your audience and make their life easier? E.g.:
Therapist: How to stop a panic attack fast
Coach: The best way to overcome procrastination
Stylist: Three ways to style a classic white T-shirt
Fitness instructor: How to do the perfect squat
Post #2: Local or national issue that affects your business or industry
Think about what’s going on locally or nationally that affects your audience. Start by giving your opinion and ask followers if they agree. Choose carefully though, you don’t want to start a riot on your page so steer clear of anything too controversial if being controversial isn’t your ‘thing’!
Post #3 Join my list
Have you got a mailing list? Share information about what’s in your newsletter and tell why people might want to join it – do you share exclusive content or discounts?
Don’t forget to include a link so they can sign up.
Week Three
Post #1 Three ways you can work with me
Share a post reminding people what you do and who you help.
Imagine you’re talking to your ideal client – what do you want them to know about you and your business?
Be clear about the benefits of your service. You need to tell people why they should work with you – how will you make their life better?
Post #2 Objection buster
It’s not nice to have to think about the reasons people might not want to work with you you BUT, when you tackle these questions openly and honestly, you build trust in your business.
Let’s say the problem is price. Perhaps people think therapy is too expensive. But do they really know what they’ll get for their money?
This week create a post that overcomes an objection. It could, for example, explain why your service is better than a cheaper alternative.
Post #3 Behind the scenes
Share a behind the scenes photo of your workspace. It might be the start or end of a project, your therapy space or even a cup of tea in your favourite mug!
Week Four
Post #1 Your frequently asked questions
Answer a question that people ask you time and time again.
The information might seem obvious to you, but don’t assume your followers know it!
FAQ posts are especially helpful as, not only do they help your readers, they also position you as an expert in your field.
Post #2 Fill in the blank
These simple posts are a fun way to engage your audience and add some personality to your page:
Finish the sentence – Today I’m determined to ___________
Finish the sentence – This weekend I’m going to ____________
Finish the sentence – My secret party trick is ____________
Post #3 Make them an offer
Can you make your followers an exclusive, irresistible offer? It could be an early-bird discount for your latest workshop or a free consultation.
Ask people to reply to your post for more details and, when they do, DM them with the details.
Ready to take action?
So, there you have it, four weeks of engagement-boosting posts to share with your audience. I hope you’re feeling motivated to take action!
Be sure to join the Social Media Made Simple for Therapists Facebook Group for more tips and ideas.