With the growth of millennial and online-savvy home shoppers, it’s become ever-important to have a social media presence. But it doesn’t just stop at creating an account. Real estate agents need to be active on Facebook, Instagram and/or LinkedIn, encouraging conversations, likes and fostering a community. Here are a few ways that you can boost your social media engagement.

Content development and sharing

Once you’ve got your account set up, it’s important to build it by posting great content. This might include tips for first-time homebuyers, sharing news about mortgage rates or new listings. But you don’t need to create all of this content from scratch — sharing content from relevant sources can be a great way to keep your accounts active while showing your followers that you have your finger on the pulse. Don’t forget to use hashtags as well — these are a great way to improve your brand awareness. Neighbourhood-specific tags can also be great for finding new clients. You can also create your own hashtag using a slogan or your business name.

Follow to gain followers

They say you must give to receive. The mantra applies in social media too. If you want to boost your number of followers, you have to follow the right accounts. It’s not just about following potential clients. Following the right accounts will show you’ve got good awareness of the community you’re working in. Follow local businesses and join community resident groups. This is also a great way to learn more about your neighbourhood and the latest issues that are top of mind for local residents. And whatever you do, don’t buy followers. Having a high follow rate with very little engagement (few comments and likes) is an easy tip-off to visitors that those followers have been purchased and not acquired organically.

Create conversations

Turn followers into likes and comments by creating and encouraging meaningful conversations. You can do this by asking questions at the end of your posts. For example, if you’re sharing a photo you took of a meal at a great new restaurant, you might ask if anyone else has tried it and what their favourite dish is. You should also engage communities outside your account by liking, sharing and commenting on other groups. This is a great way to get your name out and create brand recognition within the community.