Clear is kind, and visual is clear.
We’ve all heard about how our brains process images much faster than words, so naturally they attract attention too.
Visual communication is engaging, memorable, inclusive and can evoke more emotional connection. It doesn’t have to be a full blown illustration, using images, video, even just handwritten words can capture the attention of more people.
LinkedIn is filled with what I like to call ‘word walls’. Too many words, not enough spaces, paragraphs, emojis or other visual elements to break it up. Our eyes need reprieve, and you’ve only got a millisecond to make an impression.
Here are a few things to consider when you’re creating your posts, to make them more visual.
1. Consistency of brand. This is best demonstrated in visual elements like keeping the same fonts, colours, shapes, types of image.
2. Less content is more. Three Key Points (3KP) is a great structure to work towards. It's a good way to hone your content into more digestible pieces, and forms paragraphs nicely. Just start with a main topic and write three points about it. (Can't keep it to 3? Make a list with an odd number...like this one that has 5.)
3. Space is amazing. 'White space' on your graphics, space between paragraphs, create spaaaace. Allow the eyes to rest as they read. No more word walls!
4. Simple is understandable. Short snappy sentences, write in plain language, and entice people into more detail with other collateral offered outside of social media. Use emojis icons as dot points, or number your list. It will capture attention!
5. Declutter. Now, can you reduce things in your visual, or take some words out once you've drafted your post? There's often too many ideas going on in people’s content, try to reduce down to just the key things.
Does this resonate? Share with me some of your posts, I’d love to see how it works for you.
Jade