You sit down at your computer armed with a bunch of great content and you’re excited to share with your audiences.
But how do you say it? Straightforward? Snarky? Fun? The answer is: It depends. There are unlimited ways to interact, but sometimes you just need to see a few examples to narrow it down.
Done! Here are five examples of thinking beyond the ordinary when sharing on social media, broken down in two ways: A straightforward way and an alternative way. Each is followed by a bit of reasoning to tie it all together. These could work on multiple platforms, including, but not limited to Twitter, Facebook and Google Plus.
Lottery story
Straightforward: The Powerball jackpot has reached $450 million
Alternative: You could totally buy Kanye West his own Grammy if you win the $450 million Powerball jackpot
Reasoning: Sometimes, you just need to say it. Other times, you can capitalize on other trending topics.
Weather story
Straightforward: Snow is in the forecast for tonight
Alternative: Cover your eyes, I’m about to use the s-word on social media again. Snow.
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Reasoning: Snow can be serious or fun. You know your audience and what they need and appreciate. The straightforward version might work better in Atlanta but the alternative version might fly in an area that is used to winter weather.
Celeb story
Straightforward: Vince Vaughn reduces asking price on North Michigan Avenue penthouse
Alternative: Vince Vaughn REALLY wants you to buy his penthouse
Reasoning: Only the staunchest of business publications — this one is not included — wouldn’t take an opportunity to put something funny in a post about Vince Vaughn.
Real estate story
Straightforward: Homebuyers might net a bigger profit if they live near a Starbucks
Alternative: Thanks a latte: Your home stands a better shot of being worth venti bucks if it’s near a Starbucks
Reasoning: Coffee puns are extra hot these days.
Art story
Straightforward: Artist becomes famous for drawing on dirty car windows
Alternative: Artist becomes famous for drawing dirty pictures. He even does it in the car.
Reasoning: Look at the difference a few strategic word choices made here. Which one are you more likely to share?
And finally…
Bonus tip: I don’t recommend teasing people to the point where you force them to click on your link. Unless it’s the most exclusive content in the world, remember that if your audience can find it more easily somewhere else, they will. That’s a chance you don’t want to take.
Remember: It isn’t always about right and wrong. It all comes down to your audience, the platform and what you are sharing. And these are just a few examples. Plenty more where those came from, so #staytuned.
Have questions about social media? Tweet them to @scottkleinberg with hashtag #SoSocial. He might use yours in a future column