When Facebook introduced the Like Gate a few years ago, it got mixed reviews from users. For those who don’t know what a Like gate is, it’s a tool, usually a tab or a simple image, on a Facebook page that tells users they are required to Like the page first before they can get access to more content or join a contest.
Having a Like Gate can get you a lot of additional likes – but only if you use it right.
It’s not uncommon for users to say it can actually discourage people from participating, especially when there’s not enough incentive in Liking the page. It has also been regarded by some as a bad user experience. Worst of all, putting a Like gate up on your page could prove to be an obstacle to any good relationship your business and that user could have had if he or she only could access your Facebook page without such a caveat.
Then again, there’s no denying that a Like gate is quite useful for generating a large number of Likes for your page. A Facebook page can easily generate thousands of Likes through a Like gate. But if you actually want to build good relationships with your followers even with a Like gate, here are some of the best Facebook Like-gating practices that will help you achieve that and at the same time make liking your page worth their time.
Be up front about your wish to have them Like your page
Some Like gates can make users feel like they’re being cajoled into doing something by hyping everything up. What’s more preferable is telling them straight up that you want them to Like your page. A clear “Like our page” call to action should do the trick.
Offer something unique and exclusive
Facebook users will always appreciate it if the content that lies beyond that Like gate is something they can only find in your page. They surely wouldn’t see the point of liking your page if the content behind it is something they can find elsewhere on the Internet.
Give them truthful spoilers
Sure, one of the really enticing things about a Like gate is the thrill of not really knowing what’s behind it. However, to not waste their time, it’s best to spell out in no uncertain terms what you’re offering them before they act on your Like gate requirement.
Make your Like gate look professional
Sure, you can make your Like gate look like anything you want, but make sure it looks clean and professional for better chances of being clicked.
Keep Facebook fans engaged even after they’ve Liked the page
It’s common for people who have Liked a page to disappear once the reason they Liked the page—a contest, for instance—in the first place is already over. You can keep Facebook fans engaged with polls, quizzes or anything that would interest them and prompt them to stay around and keep coming back for more.
Keep in mind, however, that a Like gate is just one of many tools you can use to promote your Facebook page. So if even the best Facebook Like-gating practices are not getting you the results you need or expect, there are other routes to take towards growing your business.