Why is writing for social media different?
Social media writing is quick, punchy and designed to grab attention in a crowded space. It demands clarity and personality in just a few words.
Examples:
- Tweets that deliver a clever punchline
- Instagram captions that tell a mini story
- Facebook posts that invite comments and shares
Tips:
- Keep it short and to the point
- Use humour and personality to stand out
- Include a call to action to engage readers
Further reading: Everybody Writes by Ann Handley
How do I craft engaging headlines and hooks?
Your headline or first sentence needs to stop scrollers in their tracks. Use curiosity, emotion or humour to draw people in.
Examples:
- Asking a provocative question
- Starting with an unexpected fact
- Using a witty or playful phrase
Tips:
- Test different headlines to see what works
- Avoid clickbait that disappoints readers
- Match the tone to your audience and platform
Further reading: Headline Writing by Jon Morrow
How do I write for different platforms?
Each social media platform has its own style and audience expectations. Tailor your writing to fit the platform’s norms and character limits.
Examples:
- Twitter’s concise 280-character limit
- Instagram’s visual focus with short captions
- LinkedIn’s professional tone and longer posts
Tips:
- Research platform-specific trends and hashtags
- Adjust tone and length accordingly
- Use platform features like polls or stories to boost engagement
Further reading: Social Media Marketing Workbook by Jason McDonald
How do I use hashtags and emojis effectively?
Hashtags and emojis can add personality and improve discoverability but should be used thoughtfully. Overuse can look spammy or distract from your message. (I once went overboard on hashtags and my post looked like a secret code.)
Examples:
- Using popular, relevant hashtags to reach a wider audience
- Adding emojis to emphasise emotion or tone
- Combining hashtags with branded tags for campaigns
Tips:
- Limit hashtags to a handful per post
- Choose emojis that match your message and audience
- Avoid using emojis in professional or formal posts
Further reading: The Art of Social Media by Guy Kawasaki and Peg Fitzpatrick
How do I handle negative comments or feedback?
Social media exposes you to all kinds of responses. Responding professionally and calmly can turn critics into fans or at least show your integrity.
Examples:
- Acknowledging valid criticism politely
- Ignoring or blocking abusive comments
- Using negative feedback to improve your content
Tips:
- Don’t respond in anger or defensiveness
- Have a clear policy for managing comments
- Learn when to engage and when to step back
Further reading: Managing Online Reputation by Shane Barker