Social media writing can’t be hard, right? ‘LOL’ isn’t hard to spell and we all know where the # button is on a keyboard and mobile – so what’s the issue? Well, producing readable, engaging and original content for social channels that people want to interact with and share is not as easy as it looks. In fact it can be pretty darn hard, so let’s take a look at some helpful writing tips for businesses.
- Keep it short and sweet
Believe it or not, we’re all growing terribly impatient. Yes, the average human can concentrate for approximately 8 seconds – that’s less than a goldfish – so be sure to keep your social media posts short and sweet. While you’ve 400 characters to play with on Facebook and some 280 characters on Twitter, it’s not wise to use them all. Sometimes, a question with a link to a larger piece of content is all that’s needed to prompt a response.
- Don’t be too formal
Yes, you’re a respectable, serious and hardworking company – but if people want a rundown of what you’re all about they’ll go to your website. While your social accounts need to reflect the ethos and values of your brand, it’s important to soften your tone of voice to avoid standing out for the wrong reasons. Social platforms are fun, entertaining and are the ideal place to engage in more lighthearted conversation.
- Adapt your tone of voice
To confuse things a little, however, you should adapt your tone of voice to the social media network you’re using. While on LinkedIn – a site specifically catered to professionals – you might say “Here we look at how to adapt to Facebook’s news feed algorithm changes. Click below to read useful hints and tips.” On Twitter, which is considerably less professional, you could simply write “Want to survive #Facebooks new #algorithm? Check out our hot tips.” The differences are subtle but necessary.
Note how both examples offer a much-needed call to action!
- Be friendly and not so ‘corporate’
When it comes to developing professional relationships and connecting with your followers, it’s a good idea to use pronouns such as “we”, “I”, “me” and “you” instead of “the company”, “the client” or “the team” as this is much friendlier and less corporate.
If you want to increase your engagement rate – which of course you do – be sure to write as if you’re speaking directly to each fan. Here’s a great example from Barclays.
- Avoid spelling and grammar errors
Glaring errors are a big no-no even on social media.
“Your now in the running to win XXX” screams incompetency and a rushed social strategy.
“You’re now in the running to win XXX” is much better, so be sure to check all content. Social updates tend to be made rapidly and therefore reviewing all posts is a good way to avoid embarrassment.
Not sure if it’s “your” or “you’re”, “there”, “their” or “they’re”? Running out of time to implement your social plans effectively? Get in contact today.