Introduction
Long-form or short-form? TikTok or Instagram? Reel or Vlog? There are a gazillion social media apps, and creating content for each content can be extremely difficult. If you have tried using one type of content on various social media channels, I’m sure you can relate to feeling like you’ve wasted your efforts. This is because the algorithm and the users differ across platforms. For example, uploading a 40-minute video on YouTube makes sense because the app requires and thrives on longer-form content. But will a 40-minute video thrive on Instagram reels or TikTok?
Down to the aspect ratio, content needs to be tailored. Using landscape videos for reels? Bold step. Your views and engagement would probably reflect that. So what’s an easier way to tailor one type of content to every social media app while maintaining engagement? By understanding each platform’s audience and requirements. If you follow and understand your platforms, then you will not only create content that fits but content that excels!
Understanding Social Media Platforms
For this blog post, we will only highlight content strategies for Facebook, Instagram, LinkedIn, Twitter, YouTube and TikTok. Let’s look at how different these apps are and the best practices for these apps.
Understanding Facebook
Both short-form and long-form content thrive on Facebook. However, this would not matter if said content is low quality. High-quality content is important to every social media channel. Use short-form for quick updates and long-form for detailed posts like tutorials. Ignoring these preferences can result in your posts being buried and receiving minimal engagement.
Content Strategy Tips for Facebook
On Facebook, always create content that encourages interaction. Use videos, live streams, and polls to engage your audience. For example, live Q&A sessions or interactive posts that require users to carry out an action can boost your visibility. Incorporate high-quality images and engaging captions to catch the eye. Facebook Groups and Events can also help foster community and encourage participation.
Understanding Instagram
Instagram has a more visual-first approach. If you are used to text-based content, an easy way to thrive on Instagram is to create appealing visuals around the text. For instance, including your text in a reel will encourage users to be engaged while receiving your content.
Content Strategy Tips for Instagram
Primarily short-form content (photos, stories, and Reels) with some room for long-form through IGTV videos and carousel posts. Maintain a consistent aesthetic by using a cohesive colour scheme and style. For instance, a brand could share behind-the-scenes stories or create visually appealing infographics. Always use Instagram Reels to create short, engaging videos that align with trending topics as they do better than carousels.
Understanding LinkedIn
LinkedIn is a professional networking platform where the tone and content need to be aligned with the professional and business-oriented audience. It’s a space for thought leadership, industry insights, and professional achievements, making it significantly different from other more casual social media platforms.
Content Strategy Tips for LinkedIn
Both short-form and long-form content can thrive on LinkedIn, but the key is to ensure that the content adds value to your audience. Use short-form content for quick updates or sharing achievements. For long-form content, consider writing articles, case studies, or white papers that showcase your expertise in your field. With proper positioning, you can appear as a thought leader on LinkedIn and help you maintain visibility within your industry.
Understanding X (Formerly Twitter)
For content to thrive on Twitter, it has to meet two requirements; it must be concise and it must be engaging. Not doing this can lead to overlooked tweets, wasting your effort.
Content Strategy Tips for X (Formerly Twitter)
A hook will save your life. Even though more character limits are available to premium users, many still use the normal 180-character limit. The app has been proven to run on “relevant” discussions.
Understanding Youtube
When long-form content is involved, YouTube has to take the crown. YouTube is the platform where people expect long-form content. Some will even tell you they graduated from the “School of YouTube” as some university students prefer learning on YouTube. Unlike TikTok or Instagram, where short-form content is prioritised, audiences on YouTube are more likely to engage with video content that is several minutes long.
Content Strategy Tips for YouTube
Now that you know long-form content thrives on YouTube, focus on creating high-quality, informative, or entertaining videos that provide value to your audience. Tutorials, product reviews and vlogs are a great way to start. Community is also a big part of YouTube, and encouraging viewers to like, comment, and subscribe is a great start.
Understanding TikTok
TikTok has completely changed the way we think about short-form video content. Some even say it’s responsible for users having shorter attention spans. TikTok is known for its engaging, creative, and fast-paced videos, TikTok is all about capturing attention in the first few seconds. The platform thrives on trending challenges, catchy music, and viral moments, making it the go-to app for reaching younger audiences with short, snappy content.
Content Strategy Tips for TikTok
Short-form content is king on TikTok, with the ideal video length being anywhere from 15 to 60 seconds. Focus on creating quick, engaging videos that align with current trends, as these are more likely to go viral. Participate in trends, use trending sounds, and incorporate TikTok’s editing tools.
Authenticity is key on TikTok—users prefer content that feels genuine and relatable. Since it is fast-paced, regular posting is essential to staying relevant on TikTok.
Conclusion
Creating content for different apps can seem overwhelming, but understanding what each app requires makes it easier. Knowing the type of content the audience will like means you are a step ahead as this makes the creation easier. If you want a guideline to ensure you are not making any mistakes then check out 8 things you are not doing correctly on your social media. Start by applying these strategies today and watch your engagement skyrocket.
