Creating engaging content on LinkedIn or other digital platforms can sometimes feel like trying to solve a Rubik’s Cube while blindfolded. But fear not, fellow content creators!
As a seasoned (and occasionally bemused) content creator, I'm here to share some wisdom on crafting social media posts that will help you curate meaningful content that’s more engaging.
In this article you’ll find my notes on the advantages of each content type, some best use cases, and long-form article templates.
Highlights at a Glance:
1. Value of Long-Form Articles
2. Engagement: Forms and Styles
3. Campaign Effectiveness: Long-form + Short-form
4. Framework Support: Templated guides
5. Related Video: LinkedIn Strategy
Let’s dive in!
So, you’ve already determined your objectives, developed your content strategy, and use a calendar to keep organized. That’s great because creating a plan ensures that your social media efforts are aligned with your overall business goals and are effectively engaging your target audience.
With your plan in place, now the focus is on effectively creating and developing content efficiently.
Start by giving thought to the form of your content - whether it's a text post, an infographic, a video, or a combination of these. Who is your audience, what is the message you want them to consume, and what’s the best form or way to push out that message?
Aligning your style and brand with the right form of content ensures authenticity and maximizes engagement. Using the right form with the right style will certainly enhance your social engagement.
Below are details on Videos, Images, and Text.
Each type or style of content can be effective in different ways. I'm sharing some notes on the advantages of each content type along with some best use cases.
For optimal engagement and achieving your business objectives with content, consider the following before creating your content:
Posts with images receive twice the engagement rate, and video posts are 20 times more likely to be shared, emphasizing the importance of visual content.
Videos
Advantages:
- Higher Engagement: Videos often receive more interactions and shares compared to text and images.
- Visual and Auditory Appeal: They can convey complex information more dynamically.
- Building Connection: Videos help humanize your brand and allow for more personal interaction.
Best Use Cases:
-Sharing insights or commentary on industry news.
-Conducting interviews or discussions with other industry leaders.
-Demonstrating products or solutions.
-Sharing behind-the-scenes looks or company culture videos.
Images
Advantages:
-Eye-Catching: High-quality images can grab attention quickly.
-Easy to Consume: Visual content is processed faster by the brain.
-Versatility: Infographics, charts, and photos can convey information succinctly.
Best Use Cases:
-Highlighting key data points or statistics through infographics.
-Sharing visual summaries of blog posts or articles.
-Posting event photos or milestones.
-Creating branded quotes or motivational images.
Text
Advantages:
-Detailed Information: Allows for deeper explanations and storytelling.
-SEO Friendly: Text-based posts can improve your visibility in search results on LinkedIn, Google, etc.
-Accessibility: Easier for users to consume in environments where they can't play videos.
Best Use Cases:
-Long-form articles or blog posts.
-Sharing detailed insights or analyses.
-Engaging in thought-provoking discussions.
-Providing step-by-step guides or tutorials.
Remember that context matters. Choose the format type or style based on the message you want to convey. For instance, use video for dynamic content and personal stories, images for quick information, and text for in-depth analysis.
Articles (long-form) are important too. Why?
In today's digital landscape, writing long-form articles enhances social media engagement, strengthens branding efforts, and drives demand and lead generation - for the long term.
Articles provide a platform to showcase expertise, share valuable insights, and engage with a targeted audience on a deeper level than short-form content allows. They not only establish credibility and authority within a niche but also create opportunities for meaningful interactions and discussions. Moreover, well-crafted articles contribute to brand visibility and better position people as thought leaders in their industries.
By consistently delivering high-quality articles, companies can attract and nurture leads, converting engaged readers into loyal followers or fans.
Combining short-form and long-form content has proven to boost overall campaign effectiveness.
This strategic approach including multiple forms and styles not only builds a stronger online presence but also cultivates trust and loyalty which is essential for sustainable business growth in the digital age.
Here are a few long-form templated guides to help you create a framework around your content strategy.
Templated Writing Guide: Thought Leadership
Templated Writing Guide: The Storyteller’s Hook
Templated Writing Guide: The Value Bomb
Templated Writing Guide: The Data-Driven Post
Consistency is key! Keep at it and the investment will pay off significantly, allowing you to build a stronger, more impactful multi-channel presence.
I hope this information helps you with your self-managed social media campaigns. At some point, your growth will reach a place where you don’t have the time, energy, or resources to handle it on your own.
For executive assistance on social media tasks, content creation, and management please contact me directly. I’m happy to serve friendly, like minded professionals.
Stay focused and have a productive day. Here’s to long term exponential progress!
Tim Burrows
ProducingSales
Managing Director Of Sales and Marketing
TimB@ProducingSales.com
Mission:
To actively help Solopreneurs, Entrepreneurs, and Small Businesses grow successfully in responsible ways through marketing, sales and business development best practices.
Vision:
Serve as our client’s valued business partner providing positive sales & marketing results through creative strategies, focused campaigns, and fantastic experiences.