The Facebook algorithm is ever changing, but one thing we know is Facebook groups are still a great way to connect with an engaged audience.
Groups are being seen far more on news feeds than regular posts or even business pages and it’s a great way to grow without investing money into paid advertising.
But in order to keep a solid Facebook group engaged, you need to be present and posting at least once or twice a day. If this isn’t something you spend time on, your group members will move on.
Joining established Facebook groups is a great place to be if you don’t have the time or energy to be present running your own group plus it exposes you to a whole new potential client base that’s looking for answers!
Here’s some key do’s and don’ts of using Facebook groups for your own practice growth:
Do: Search out groups similar to you, your niche and ideal client
Look for groups that tailor to you and your ideal client – healthy eating/living, mom groups, athletes, weight loss support, local and similar brick and mortar businesses – whatever it may be, you’re essentially looking for where you think your ideal client hangs out on Facebook.
Don’t: Be everywhere
Try not to join every single group out there. Keeping up in too many groups can be overwhelming, and more time consuming for you. You’ll miss notifications and likely give up on the process. Spend time nurturing a few groups that you can really spend some time and contribute in throughout the week.
Do: Be smart about your contributions
Add to the conversation around your niche. Be positive rather than controversial. Offer advice on things you know, and avoid topics outside your scope of practice. This is especially important for legal reasons with your practice.
Don’t: Be “salesy”
The last thing you should do is join a group and immediately try to sell or drop your website links under every post. Get a feel for the group first. Join, sit back and observe for a few days to see what the conversation is like, what people are asking and where you can contribute. Add comments and post some content asking questions to add value without trying to sell yourself.
Do: Offer suggestions and past experience in your practice without selling your services
Speaking from experience you can let people know who you are and what you do without having to sell yourself. In time, you can generate solid leads and get those important third party testimonials from group members that come to you. Once they see a similar problem come up again they will likely recommend their go expert in the group – you!
Want to learn more ways to market yourself and reach your ideal clients? Let’s chat!