Feeling Stuck with 0 Likes? You’re Not Alone
Getting little to no likes on your social media posts can be disheartening — especially when you’ve spent time creating content, choosing the right photo, and adding all the trending hashtags. For small business owners, seeing “0 likes” might feel like your efforts aren’t working. But the truth is, many brands start here. Growing online engagement takes consistency, the right strategy, and a few tweaks that can make all the difference.
One of the most common mistakes small businesses make is posting without inviting interaction. Social media is not just about broadcasting — it’s about building connection. Try turning your posts into questions or prompts. For example, instead of saying, “New drink promo available now,” ask “Which one would you pick — iced matcha or caramel latte?” A simple change in tone can get people talking. When followers comment, be sure to reply. It’s a two-way street — the more you engage, the more visibility your post gets.
Next, show the real side of your business. People love seeing what goes on behind the scenes. Whether it’s your team prepping for the day, packaging orders, or funny moments in your daily routine, this type of content builds trust and relatability. It reminds people that there’s a real person behind the brand. Even casual photos or quick phone videos can go a long way — they don’t need to be professionally shot.
Short-form videos like Instagram Reels or TikTok clips are also powerful tools to boost engagement. You don’t need fancy gear or editing — just keep it short, clear, and authentic. A simple 5 to 10 second clip of a product being made, a behind-the-scenes tour, or even a quote video with a voice-over can grab attention and increase reach. Video content is currently favoured by most platforms’ algorithms, so it’s worth including in your content mix.
Another key factor is timing and consistency. Posting at the right times — such as during lunch hours or evenings when your audience is most active — can increase visibility. You also don’t need to post every day. Aim for three to five quality posts a week and stick to a regular schedule. Use free tools like Meta Business Suite to plan and automate your posts, so you stay active even on busy days.
And don’t forget — if you want engagement, you have to give some too. Take time to interact with other local businesses, leave thoughtful comments on community pages, and reply to others’ posts. This not only increases your visibility but helps you build meaningful connections with other business owners and customers in your area.
At the end of the day, social media isn’t about chasing likes — it’s about building a community around your brand. Starting with 0 likes is normal. What matters is how you keep showing up, improving your content, and staying consistent. Even if your post doesn’t go viral, it still reaches someone who sees your brand and remembers it. Keep showing up with value, and the numbers will follow.
If you’re unsure how to improve your engagement or feel stuck on what to post next, LokalBuzz is here to help. We work with local businesses to simplify social media and grow online visibility — without all the stress.
