Best practices for fan growth demand consistent long-term initiatives, not short term quick fixes, as success will, in the end, be measured by fan retention over time not just a one time fan increase.  Often times, a meteoric rise is quickly followed by a precipitous decline.

The best performance is seen when a company launches an on-brand, compelling creative campaign that is consistent across all media platforms including paid, earned and owned. Combined with a Like-Gate, this scenario can drive the largest increase in growth-especially in conjunction with engaging promotional opportunities, such as contests or sweepstakes.

But these kinds of promotions can be expensive and require a team of consultants and experts to help facilitate.

Instead, here are 5 simple solutions that can drive healthy fan growth the right way:

1. Publish Facebook-exclusive offers and content to your existing fans and they will spread the word

2. Use Open Graph and add a Like button to your product pages allowing that product to be published to your fans' NewsFeeds for their friends to see

3. Create a compelling welcome page-a fun video never hurts either

4. Add a Facebook link to your signature on all collateral

5. Get fans to tag your brand in photos

And as with any marketing plan, use all tools at your disposal to gauge what works and what doesn't. Facebook Insights will be very helpful in this regard.

And it goes without saying, in this world of social media, these tactics will only be successful if you know your audience very well and are confident you are offering them the content, product and/or services they are looking for. WIth all these tactics aligned, there's no doubt you will see your fan base increase, and then you'll engage with a cadre of brand loyalists who will gladly share their positive sentiment about your company.

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