OBM: Good Social Media Content

On October 25 I ran another October Business Month workshops.This one was on "What Makes Good Social Media Content in 2018". The workshop focused less on how to use social media and the different platforms and was concerned primarily with how to make engaging and 'thumb-stopping' moments. I’ve decided to share some of the key points with you.Feel free to get in contact if you ever want help with social media, content creation and advice.

My Top 5 Take Home Messages on Social Media Content

1. Think mobile: This has become more and more obvious for people but it's essential when you're creating social media content to think abut how it will look on a phone. People are using social media apps on their smart phones WAY more then computers. So you need your posts to look good in a vertical mode and they need to grab attention fast because usually people on phones are also doing something else. Always imagine how your followers are using social media and their context when you create content.
2. Empathise: This is essential for anyone working in marketing. You need to empathise and connect with your target audience. Imagine being in their shoes. What content do they like? How do they use social media? What have they already seen and experienced? Why do they care about what you're posting? Always ask questions and empathise when you make content.
3. Take your time: The convenience of social media and mobile apps means we can create content and share it with followers really quickly. But that speed is not always a good thing. It's important to take your time and get the best QUALITY content to post. People won't put up with average photos, or pixelated graphics anymore. You need to take a moment to get a quality photo, to make good visual content and to frame your posts.
4. Use the algorithm values: Social media platforms use algorithms to establish what will be at the top of people's news feeds. the more you can understand and leverage the algorithm the better your posts will be. It's essential to remember that "friends and family" will always come first so how can you engage in that sphere with your post. Social media newsfeeds are expected to entertain, inform and inspire - so make sure your content is part of that!
5. Have fun: If you don't like social media and find the process a 'chore' then it's a sign you need someone else looking after your channels or you shouldn't be on there. Social media has become the most direct form of customer service, people develop their understanding and relationship with your brand on these two-way communications channels - so it's essential you enjoy what using it and share a positive, engaged and inspired voice. Find ways to make it enjoyable. Explore, create and experiment with your content. You should enjoy it otherwise your audience will see right through you and find you inauthentic.

I hope everyone is having an excellent #OBM2018.Looking forward to the next few workshops and also working with Territorians to help with social media skills development.