Graphic posts are struggling, putting text over creative is seeming to drop engagement across most digital spaces.
The rule at the moment seems to be more text = less engagement, so should we still be posting graphics as businesses. Let's talk about it.
The prevailing sentiment among marketers is that adding more text to graphics tends to have an inverse effect on engagement. It's almost paradoxical – as we strive to convey more information, promote more offers, and share more insights, our engagement rates appear to plummet. The mantra of "less is more" suddenly gains newfound relevance in this context. While concise, impactful text has always been a hallmark of effective communication, the digital realm seems to be amplifying this principle.
So, the question looms:
Should businesses continue to invest time, creativity, and resources into crafting graphic posts?
To answer this, we need to delve into the intricacies of human psychology and digital behavior. Visual content, by its very nature, captures attention swiftly and evokes emotions almost instantaneously.
Yet, the saturation of social media feeds with a deluge of visuals has given rise to a peculiar phenomenon – "banner blindness." This term refers to the tendency of users to ignore banner-like information, considering it as noise rather than relevant content.
Enter the power of text. In a world of fleeting attention spans, a well-crafted, concise caption has the potential to provide context, spark curiosity, and encourage action. But here's the kicker: the text shouldn't just be any text. It needs to be a narrative that complements the visual in a seamless blend. The text becomes a bridge, connecting the viewer's initial intrigue with a deeper understanding of the message you're conveying. In essence, it's not just about more text; it's about the right text.
Moreover, search engines – those digital gateways that guide users to your content – thrive on text. They crawl through websites, indexing keywords and phrases to deliver relevant results. While alt text and captions associated with graphics provide some textual context, they might not be enough to satisfy the algorithms' appetite. Thus, the dilemma deepens: balancing the visually appealing with the algorithmically effective.
But it's important to note that the efficacy of graphic posts can vary greatly depending on the platform, the audience, and the nature of the content. Platforms like Instagram, Pinterest, and TikTok thrive on visual engagement, where an arresting image can make users stop mid-scroll. On the other hand, platforms like LinkedIn and Twitter often demand a more text-centric approach to capture the attention of professionals seeking insightful information.
So, what's the bottom line? Should you discard graphic posts in favor of text-heavy content or vice versa?
The answer, as is often the case in the dynamic realm of digital marketing, lies in a strategic blend of both. A holistic approach recognizes that different platforms cater to different consumer behaviors. It's about understanding your target audience's preferences and adapting your content strategy accordingly.
In the end, the effectiveness of graphic posts isn't waning; rather, it's evolving. The key lies in their integration into a broader narrative.
Visuals that tell a story and are accompanied by succinct, impactful text are more likely to cut through the noise and leave a lasting impression. The digital space might be shifting, but the fundamentals of human connection and communication remain constant. So, as you navigate this ever-changing landscape, remember: Graphic posts are not just a good idea; they're an evolving art that can continue to captivate – as long as they're in the company of compelling, concise text.
Shoot us an email at hello@grab-social.com or schedule a call through our website to learn more about social media strategy plus how we can help your business elevate itself in the digital space.
Will Staber
Digital Marketing Strategist
Comentários