Turning social media followers into customers is challenging for brands. Because users often follow brands for entertainment or connection, not to make purchases, brands must find authentic ways to convert followers’ curiosity into actual sales. Building trust and credibility with an online audience takes time and consistent engagement, as many social media users today are skeptical of overt sales pitches and prefer organic brand content aligned with their interests.

Moreover, the volume of competition on crowded social media platforms adds yet another obstacle, with countless brands and influencers vying for attention and inundating users with content and offers. Below, 18 members of Forbes Agency Council share smart ways to cut through the noise and provide value that motivates social media followers to give a brand a chance and become paying customers.

1. Use Social Listening

2. Focus On Relationships

3. Offer High-Value Niche Content

4. Create A Sense Of Connection

5. Give Your Audience A Reason To Follow Your Brand

6. Provide Exclusive Offers And Discount Codes

7. Leverage Automated DM Tools

8. Get Your Executives Active On Social Media

9. Invite Followers To Topical Webinars

10. Personalize Newsletters; Automate Email Campaigns

11. Develop A Long-Term Influencer Partnership 

12. Deliver Valuable Content Via Livestream

13. Offer Relevant Gated Content Through Your ‘Link In Bio’

14. Run Engaging Contests

15. Employ Clear And Concise CTAs

16. Build Relationships With Influencers On Social Media 

17. Provide Content That Helps Your Followers 

18. Focus On Growing A Community, Not Your Numbers