How does a brand grow its Facebook fan base by over 160K followers in just a three-week period? Combine the holiday season with some deals, contests and affiliate partner giveaways and the answer gets a little clearer. According to a piece on AdWeek, Engagement Labs found that toy manufacturer Little Tikes had an increase of 166,000 Facebook fans from November 9 through December 1. A scan of the company’s posts in that time frame shows multiple giveaways through partners like Carter’s and Momtrends, featuring things like shopping sprees and kids’ products. It also reveals deals promoted for Black Friday and Cyber Monday and includes a quick, one-question survey that entered participants into a drawing. So what can we take away from these tactics? Social strategies that incorporate timely, engaging posts and chances to save/win are a definite draw for followers.

Happy Holidays!

With the holidays fast approaching and your Inboxes over-filled with seasonal offers, we decided to take a break – so this will be our last Thursday Thought for 2015. We wish you a Safe and Happy Holiday Season and look forward to delivering more thoughts and ideas in the New Year!