“Work Smarter, Not Harder.” ~ Carl Banks

Happy July, friends! We know you’re a bunch of marketing rockstars, so you’re already posting on social media each week. You’re working hard to engage your customers and patrons with great information every time you post, and have stepped up to the unexpected challenges that Covid-19 has brought us all.

But what if you could tweak things JUST a little to offer even BETTER, MORE ENGAGING, MORE EXCITING social media posts? Take a look at some recent stats that are sure to sell you on the SMARTEST way to post:

SOCIAL MEDIA POSTS THAT GET THE MOST ATTENTION (source: SproutSocial.com)

IMAGES
Add a photo. Yes, every time. Even if it’s a text-based post, find a free stock photo to add some interest.

VIDEO
Don’t get too hung up on fancy equipment. iPhone’s can make nice, high quality videos that people love to click. Consider sharing business updates, staff members, store pets, or even building tours of new displays!

TEXT-BASED
It’s true, please still want content keeping them updated and informed. Just make these posts PART of your weekly posting schedule, not every day.

STORIES
Instastories, in particular, are becoming increasingly popular. Share away in a quick and easy way, or direct people to your most recent post. With only a 24 hour posting window, it’s a cool way to get quick and deadlined details out to folks in a glance!

POLLS
People love you to ask them what they think, AND see what others think. These don’t have to be dramatic and serious polls – think “What book genre are you most liking this summer?” and similar light hearted post ideas.

FUN POST IDEA: Download our free BOOK BINGO sheet for visitors and let your followers know how to download it off your website or pickup at your stores and libraries! It’s a great resource for families to keep summertime reading alive!

MOST WANTED BRAND BEHAVIOR ON SOCIAL MEDIA (source: Sproutsocial.com)

HONESTY
When it comes to your business and it’s brand, people really appreciate honesty. With Covid19, people want to hear how your store or library is being safe and careful, and your plans for reopening (or not). Don’t leave it a mystery to your fans and followers. They will appreciate you even more for sharing.

FRIENDLY
You’re in luck! You are a librarian or bookseller, which makes you automatically in the business of FRIENDLY. Make sure your brand’s personality shines through in your posts. More casual writing is perfectly accepted, as if you’re sending a note to a friend.

HELPFUL
Resource offerings are key. Your followers watch you for a reason – your expertise. Think new book recommendations, a favorite podcast you’re loving this summer, or an online activity for kids at stuck at home!

FUNNY
Think cute, not snarky. Everyone loves a giggle from a funny photo (tip: kids and pets ALWAYS win!).

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~ Your Marketing friends at Cardinal Rule Press