I’ve been seeing posts and memes about how Facebook Likes can’t change the world.

I have to admit. That’s sort of true because firstly, it’s a digital action – unless each like magically produces bread for the hungry and creates a cure for cancer, it’s not really THAT helpful. But most of all, if a person isn’t OPEN to the idea, then it’s a given – nothing will happen.

You’re not willing to give those who need help a single click, what more reaching into your wallet and giving alms to the poor – What can you do?

But I’ll tell you right now: If you’re open minded enough (and know a little something about Facebook’s Edgerank), you’ll understand how Likes can effect change.

Check this little diagram out:

edgerank.002

Image from Mindjumpers

This diagram illustrates how Facebook’s Edgerank works.

In a nutshell, a Page’s Edgerank is affected by its Affinity Score, Weight and Time factor. It works this way: If a Facebook Page is constantly being viewed by many users, and people engage with it (Like, Comment, Tag in a post, message, etc) and if the posts are fresh enough or are constantly engaged in a given time period, its Edgerank increases.

If you’re a Facebook Page, that’s a good thing! The result is that you get your posts to appear more often on other people’s news feeds. And when that happens, your posts are seen – you get high visibility.

And if you’re a Facebook Page that has a certain advocacy or serves a particular community, that’s a good thing because I can presume you’re working towards the awareness of your cause.

If you’re an individual who thinks Likes don’t help – then think again. Your likes (and constant viewing and engaging with the Facebook page) DOES help. You’re helping them spread their advocacy to other people – you’re helping spread the word. In that little way, you’re helping change the world.

Speaking of changing the world, I’m doing my part by helping a specific organization out by sharing their video:

It’s another LEAP team and I really like how its theme centers on making that change. Pretty excited about it. :)

So what are you waiting for? Make that change!