Seeing Is Believing: Crafting a Visual Content Strategy
Consumers typically scan digital content, rather than read it start to finish. As a result, you only have a few seconds to catch their interest. Humans process images 60,000 times faster than text and retain 80% of what they see. This means that content accompanied by visual aides are more effective in those few seconds than text without images, making a visual content strategy crucial to building brand recognition and gaining followers.
Placement
Visuals placed within blocks of text make the content more user-friendly. Different types of visuals enable you to express content quickly and across multiple platforms, making it incredibly functional.
Begin incorporating images in your content strategy by using a featured image with your blog. It adds interest and is the first thing Twitter and Facebook users see when you share the link. There are several types of visuals you can add to digital content to entice traffic and communicate quickly. Here are some options to help you develop an effective visual content strategy grow your audience organically.
Photos
Photographs enable you to quickly and easily share a specific event or idea with your audience. Use high-quality, original images for a personal touch to your content strategy. Consumers want a glimpse into your brand. Photos that show your facility, employees and other true-to-life experiences show authenticity.
If you do not have appropriate pictures all the time, browse free resources and photo-sharing sites. They can make it easy for you to create content with appealing photos that stimulate interest. When you use stock photos, make sure you respect the copyright requirements.
Infographics
The attention span of people in the digital age has shrunk. If you have complex data to share, collating it into a simple, easy-to-read visual can make it compelling. Infographics enhance understanding and are typically an extension of existing content. Pair your graphics with landing page optimization and social media posts. This makes them an integral part of your visual content strategy.
To reap the most rewards, make sure that that fonts, shapes and colors are impactful. The information conveyed must not only be accurate but also contextually relevant. The infographic must relate to the text content and carry it forward. When you share via social platforms, include a thumbnail as well as a link to the page that displays the full image. This enables you to bypass any size restrictions imposed by the platform and attract more inbound links.
Screenshots
When describing software processes and operations, screenshots help users follow along easily. They can help users understand complex ideas and simplify step-by-step instructions. Bring attention to pertinent information by adding arrows or circling the area.
Video
Do you have a product that solves a problem? Can video help explain what your company or product does better than text? Although it takes a bit longer to put together, video increases conversions by more than 80%. Popular video formats include
- How-to videos
- Product demonstrations
- Explainer videos
- Customer testimonials
Consumers love video content on websites, YouTube channels and social media. Create high-caliber video that captures the overall style of your brand. It can become the foundation of your business presence in the digital realm.
Memes
Who knew that images with amusing captions would play such a pivotal role in a visual content strategy? They evoke emotion and are simple to create. They can set you apart from the competition and help build a community around your brand. However, keep your audience in mind before diving into the pithy world of memes. Not all types of visual content work for all niches and markets. Engagement is the goal, and memes often resonate with a younger demographic. If jokes within or about your industry typically fall flat, you may want to explore other image options.
Create Great Content
Visual content is a crucial component of your overall marketing strategy. Adding it to blogs, creative websites or social campaigns piques interest and resonates with consumers. It helps you attract followers and increases your audience. In fact, images are three times more effective than paid search when it comes to ROI. Are you ready to set yourself apart from your competition? Boostability helps businesses enhance the effectiveness of their visual content strategy and extend their reach. Contact us today or call 800-261-1537 to learn more about how we can boost your results for big returns.
