Why Engagement Matters More Than Likes on Social Media for Financial Professionals

By
Mark Lamb
11/6/2025

It’s easy to get hooked on likes. They’re visible, they feel good, and they’re the simplest way to measure success. But here’s the truth: for financial professionals—whether you’re an accountant or a financial adviser—likes don’t generate clients.

Engagement does.

Engagement means comments, conversations, and direct messages – the places where trust is built and opportunities begin.

Why Likes Are Just a Vanity Metric

Likes are a surface-level signal. They show someone noticed your post, but they don’t prove interest.

You could get 200 likes on a tax deadline reminder or a pensions explainer, but if no one asks a question or reaches out, what’s changed?

  • Likes measure attention.
  • Engagement measures connection.

And connection is what leads to enquiries.

Why Engagement Builds Trust in Financial Services

Whether you’re helping a business owner navigate HMRC rules or guiding a family through retirement planning, your work is trust-driven.

When people see you replying to comments, answering questions, and joining conversations, it shows you’re approachable and active.

That’s what reassures prospects that you’re the right person to work with.

👉 Engagement turns static content into relationships.

Practical Ways to Spark Engagement

Engagement doesn’t just happen – it’s something you create with consistent habits.

Four simple approaches:

  • End posts with a question → “What’s the biggest challenge you’ve faced with year-end accounts?” or “How do you feel about the latest interest rate changes?”
  • Reply quickly → Respond to every comment within 24 hours to keep conversations flowing.
  • Engage with others → Spend 10 minutes a day commenting thoughtfully on posts from clients, prospects, or peers.
  • Share stories → Real client lessons (anonymised) or personal insights often get the best responses.

Remember: social media is a two-way street. The more conversations you join, the more visible you become.

Why Algorithms Reward Engagement

Platforms like LinkedIn and Instagram don’t just want likes – they prioritise posts that generate comments and shares.

A handful of meaningful replies can push your post further than 100 passive likes.

So not only does engagement deepen relationships, it also boosts your reach.

The Hidden Cost of Ignoring Engagement

Many financial professionals fall into the “broadcast” trap. They post updates but never engage with anyone else.

The result? A flat profile – content goes up, but visibility and credibility don’t grow.

It’s like running a seminar where you talk at people but never answer their questions. Nobody leaves feeling connected.

How Halio Helps You Spark Engagement

Halio was built for accountants, advisers, and other financial professionals who need to stay visible online without burning time.

Unlike generic schedulers, Halio creates posts designed to start conversations – from practical tips, to question-led posts, to human reflections.

The result? Content that doesn’t just sit there, but gets people talking.

That’s how engagement becomes the bridge between visibility and new business.

FAQ

Why are likes less important than engagement for financial professionals?
Because likes don’t create relationships. Engagement does – and that’s what leads to clients.

How can I boost engagement?
Ask questions, reply quickly, share human stories, and comment on client or peer posts regularly.

Does engagement help me reach more people?
Yes. Social platforms push posts with genuine interactions further in the feed.

What happens if I don’t engage?
You risk looking invisible. Posting without engaging is like broadcasting into an empty room.

How does Halio help?
Halio generates conversation-ready content in seconds, so you spend less time stuck on ideas and more time building real connections.

Your Next Step

If you’re a financial professional who wants to turn likes into conversations (and conversations into clients), see how Halio supports you here → https://www.halio.ai