Why Can I Only Follow Someone On Facebook And Not Friend Them: Explained

What does it mean to follow someone on Facebook without being friends? When you add someone as a follower on Facebook, you grant them the ability to view your public posts without the need for a mutual friendship connection. This feature was introduced on September 16, 2019, through the addition of a “Follow” button, allowing individuals to stay updated with your public content even if they are not part of your friend list. This distinction is particularly useful for public figures, influencers, or individuals who want to share information with a broader audience beyond their immediate circle of friends.

“Why isn’t there an ‘Add Friend’ button on certain Facebook profiles?” This common question arises when users encounter profiles lacking this option. The absence of the “Add as Friend” button typically occurs when the individual you’re interested in connecting with has customized their privacy settings to prevent friend requests (for detailed instructions, refer to Chapter 14). In such cases, you can still send a friend request by completing the confirmation box that appears and then clicking “Send Request.” Understanding these privacy settings can help you navigate the platform more effectively.