imLabs – imLabs franchise digital marketing

Franchise Social Media Mistakes to Avoid

Is your social media bringing people in or pushing them away?

Picture this: You’re running a solid franchise. Staff’s on schedule. Inventory’s stocked. Customers seem happy.

However, your social media? Crickets.

Or even worse… likes and views from people who will never set foot in your store.

If that sounds familiar and you’ve ever typed something like: 

“How to get more customers from social media for my franchise”

…you’re in the right place.

Here’s the truth: social media isn’t just posting pretty photos. It’s how local customers decide where to shop, eat, and spend their money.

81% of people check a business’s social media before deciding to visit.

That’s why if your content doesn’t feel local, or doesn’t feel genuine, it’s time for a fix.

In this post, I’ll talk about the biggest franchise social media mistakes… and how local franchise social media marketing makes sure your posts actually bring customers through your door.

First of all, here’s one of the biggest reasons franchise social media falls flat:

It’s too polished. Too generic. Too corporate.

Corporate graphics and slogans are great, but local customers crave posts that feel closer to home.

So, what can you do?

Quick Fix for Local Franchise Social Media Marketing:

  • Share photos of your actual team (even selfies!).
  • Talk about community events you’re attending.
  • Snap pics of real customers enjoying your store.

People want to see the faces behind your business.

Another big silent killer of engagement? Silence itself.

If people in your city are talking about a big parade, a new restaurant opening, or even a snowstorm, and your page says nothing, then clearly you’re missing out on connection.

That’s where local franchise social media marketing helps you join the conversations already happening.

Quick Fix:

  • Comment on local news or events.
  • Celebrate hometown sports victories.
  • Share weather updates that affect store hours.

82% of consumers feel more positive about a brand after reading custom content related to their community.

Of course, many franchise owners save time by copying one post onto Facebook, Instagram, LinkedIn, and TikTok.

But remember, each platform has its own vibe. What works on Instagram might flop on LinkedIn, or vice versa.

Quick Fix for Local Franchise Social Media Marketing:

  • Instagram: Use photos, reels, and short captions.
  • Facebook: Post longer stories and local events.
  • LinkedIn: Highlight business milestones or partnerships.
  • TikTok: Show behind-the-scenes moments or funny quick clips.

91% of consumers want brands to be authentic on social channels.

The more native your content feels, the more your audience connects.

Finally, one of the fastest ways to lose customers? Ignoring them.

Plenty of franchise owners post content, but never reply to comments or reviews. That silence can cost you trust and customers.

Quick Fix for Local Franchise Social Media Marketing:

  • Reply to every question, even a simple “Thanks for stopping by!”.
  • Thank customers for good reviews and politely address negative ones.
  • Jump into conversations in comments.

A Harvard Business Review study showed businesses that reply to customer reviews earn 12% more revenue on average.

Customers want to feel heard, even online.

Here’s the bottom line:

Social media shouldn’t feel like a mystery or a chore. Instead, when done right, it’s one of the easiest ways to connect with people in your neighborhood and bring them into your store.

Local franchise social media marketing makes sure your posts feel personal, authentic, and close to your customers, so your business stays top-of-mind when they’re deciding where to shop next.

Curious how this could work for your franchise?

Book a free strategy call.

We’ll show you what’s possible, what’s missing, and how to help your store become the local favorite in your community.

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