Shelter’s Edge

Wanna get people regularly commenting on your Facebook page AND coming back for more? It’s all about the art of the ask. Posing questions on your social media channels is a great way to engage and educate fans, create a sense of community online and, yes, even get some stuff crossed off your wish list. Check out how your colleagues in the field are keeping the convo going.

Have more fun
This one’s a no-brainer: Find a fun photo and ask fans to caption it. In the following example, The Cat Network saved time looking for a compelling photo by simply sharing another organization’s post. Now that’s working smart!

We see lots of shelters asking folks to caption photos of animals currently at their shelter, which is a great way to promote available dogs and cats. Another variation on this theme: Ask something like, “What’s this cat thinking?” or “Give this puppy something to say.”

What’s in a name?
Oh, only more than 200 Facebook comments, as demonstrated by this recent status posted by Louisiana SPCA:

Take careful note of the languaging here. Sure, this is totally fun…and LA/SPCA is also letting fans know that they can make a difference in this dog’s life… by coming up with a good name, she’ll have increased chances of finding a home.

Ask for stuff
Out of bleach? Need more paper for your printer? Your community wants to help–just be specific, as in this recent post from Greater Androscoggin Humane Society:

P.S. A cute pic doesn’t hurt either—check out that pup just waiting for his PB & K!

What questions have you asked your Facebook fans? Share what’s worked in the comment box.

Related links:
“Facebook Basics: 3 Steps To Slammin’ Statuses”
“Facebook Basics: 3 Ways to Thank Local Businesses”
50 Things To Do On Facebook

Tags: Adoption Marketing, Adoption Programs, Marketing & Media, Saving Lives, Social Media

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