Converting someone from a Like to a Lead is not so easy. You read about it all over the place, but no one really tells you how to do it. Facebook has a new Graph Search functionality which is fantastic at zeroing in on your fans and their interests, but what do you DO with it?

This tactic is one that I use all the time, and with great success. You can use it most successfully on LinkedIn and Facebook, but really, wherever you are in the social media world, you can use this tactic. And its simplicity is going to kill you.

You simply send them a personal message. A personal message allows you to isolate your value to the new connection/like/follower/etc. and give them a reason to connect with you. But be warned: do not make this a SELL message. You’re doing it right if in this communication you are describing the value you will give to THEM – not the other way around.

For instance, I don’t include my credentials, speaking engagements or my personal influence in my message. Who cares? Instead, I’ll do a little research and find out about where they are in the social media world, and offer to help them increase THEIR value – make more money, waste less time, achieve greater results – things that mean something to THEM, not me.

So, you can send a message to:

– “Creepers” on LinkedIn (people who have viewed your account – whether they’re connected to you or not, they’ve checked you out again. It’s up to you to find out why!)

– New Connections on LinkedIn

– New Likes on Facebook

– New Followers on Twitter (use the DM function – but remember that to do this, you have to be following each other). You can also simplify your message and send it as a mention (using @ and their handle)

Your message has 3 components:

1. Thank you

2. Value message (this is where you promote your value to them, and how it will solve their challenges)

3. Follow up – never ask “Do you want to meet/call/receive this info?” because they will say “no”. Instead, propose a time to connect and then take it from there. It’s harder for them to say no, and you show greater confidence in your ability to really add value to their business.

Try this out and see how it works! Because a new connection, or like, or follower is worth nothing until you give them value. Go for it!

Rebecca