People are always drawn to images more than writing, so visuals play a huge role in social media marketing. 70% of marketers plan on increasing their use of original visual assets this year because of the promise of visual strategy. When people see a great visual, the likelihood that they will share, like, or retweet the image dramatically increases.

A simple formula to remember is this: more content = more traffic. 

The first step in using visual images would be to create content that is original. This can be tricky, but what you want to avoid is someone thinking, ‘eh, I’ve seen this before.’ Creating original content is key when it comes to using a visual strategy. A few foundations ideas for coming up with original content would include:

• How To’s

• Tips

• Checklists

• Quotes

Going off these foundation ideas, you can create original images relating to your business. It is helpful to create your images in batches so that they get the same “feel,” are consistent, and so that you have material ready beforehand. This consistency will also help people to recognize your original style. Always be consistent with the message you are trying to convey, and use emotion whenever possible to help further the message you are trying to get across. 

Load your images with small bits of information, or write the information in the post. Always keep the information on the post limited and short so that people don’t feel overwhelmed by the amount of text in the image or post—keep it short and keep it sweet. 

Calls to action also prompt the reader to sign up, comment, click, or share, and a great image should provoke them to do this. A few clear calls to action would include:

• Ask for suggestions

• Ask for feedback

• Sign-up to get something special

• Want a sneak peek?

Don’t be afraid to get creative by telling stories about your business and let customers get to know you and your staff on a day-to-day basis. This gives your customer the “inside story” and makes them feel a part of your journey— ultimately building trust between them and your business.

Lastly, inspire advocacy. This can be done in many different ways, but one example would be to encourage a customer or staff member to share or post about their experience with a product of your business or while they are experiencing something on-site. Make your visuals something that people want to share—relate the post to your customer, post a picture of a happy client, or use a quirky photo or quote.

Always remember to make the post relevant and interesting to a client because boring posts will do nothing for a business in the social media marketing medium.