Stop Buying Likes: How to Build a Real Facebook Audience
If you want long-term growth, it starts with real people – not fake numbers.
When you’re trying to build your presence on Facebook, it’s tempting to buy likes. The numbers look good. It feels like progress. But the truth is: if those likes aren’t real people who care about your business, they’re not helping you grow.
At Red Desk, we support ethical and effective marketing strategies that work for the long term. In this article, we share practical ways to grow your Facebook followers without resorting to shortcuts – helping you build an audience that engages, converts and supports your goals.
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Optimise Your Facebook Page
A good first impression matters. Make sure your:
- Profile photo and cover image look professional and relevant
- About section includes keywords (e.g. small business support, virtual helpdesk, UK admin services)
- Contact info is complete
- Call-to-action button links to something meaningful – your website, enquiry form, or newsletter
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Share Content That People Actually Want
Post consistently – even if that means just once a week – and focus on content that:
- Answers common client questions
- Shows how you work behind the scenes
- Highlights testimonials or recent wins
- Links to relevant events or awareness days
Bonus points for using varied formats: images, Reels, graphics, short videos.
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Use Your Existing Network
Don’t overlook the tools you already have:
- Add your Facebook page link to email signatures
- Embed the page or latest posts on your website
- Ask staff, collaborators, and friends to like and share
You could also ask new clients to follow you as part of your onboarding process.
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Collaborate with Others
The easiest way to get in front of a new audience? Work with someone who already has one. Try:
- Co-posting with a local business
- Running a joint giveaway or awareness campaign
- Tagging speakers, suppliers or partners in your posts
This works especially well for charities, course providers, and small businesses with a community focus.
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Use Facebook Ads – the Right Way
Instead of buying followers through shady services, use Facebook’s built-in Page Likes ads. These are affordable and targeted – ideal if you want to reach people who are likely to engage.
You can choose your audience based on location, interest, or profession, and spend as little as £2-3 per day.
Why You Should Avoid Buying Likes
| False Boost | Real Result | |
| Big numbers | Low engagement | |
| Fast wins | Long-term problems | |
| Looks good | Reduces reach, hurts credibility |
Fake followers don’t help your business – they just clutter your metrics.
Final Thought
If you’re going to invest time in Facebook, do it in a way that builds trust, not just traffic. A smaller, engaged audience will always outperform a large, disengaged one.
Need help with planning your content, setting up ads, or refreshing your strategy? Get in touch with Red Desk – we’re here to help small businesses grow the right way.