Raise your glasses, business owners! We’re not talking facts and features today – that’s so 2020! We’re taking a deep dive into the incredible world of opinionated content. Why? Because it’s the lifeblood of our social media era, the pulsing heart of online engagement, and the magic wand that could transform your content from ho-hum to “Holy cow, I need to share this!”
Hear Ye, Hear Ye: The Courage to Be Opinionated
Before we plunge into the deep end of opinionated content (no water wings required), let’s address the elephant in the room. Why aren’t people creating this type of content more often? The answer lies in vulnerability. Yes, it can feel a little scary, a bit like standing in the middle of a crowded room with a megaphone, declaring your thoughts and beliefs to the world. But, oh boy, is it worth it!
Creating opinionated content is like setting up a social media lighthouse. It beams out your unique perspective, your expertise, your value, and guess who it attracts? The right people. Those who resonate with your views, appreciate your expertise, and see the value in what you do. And the ones who don’t? Well, they self-select themselves out of your sphere, leaving you with an audience that’s truly for you.
So, yes, it takes a bit of bravery. It’s about tapping into your convictions, your wisdom, and your industry know-how, and then, with a confident swagger, stepping onto your social media soapbox to announce, “Hear ye, hear ye!” Trust us, the echo of your voice will reach the right ears. And isn’t that what we’re all aiming for?
“The Algorithm Has Changed.” – Dun Dun Dun!
When you’re running the social media rat race, nothing strikes fear into your heart quite like these four words. “The algorithm has changed.” Who hasn’t had that moment of panic when your best-laid plans and well-crafted posts start to look like they’re fading into oblivion because, apparently, Instagram decided to switch things up on a Tuesday?
But here’s my own 4-word social media horror story – “Engagement rate hits zero”. Ugh, gives me the chills just thinking about it! And that’s why we’re here, championing the cause of opinionated content, because algorithms be darned, it’s engagement that truly rules the roost.
The Power of the Poll!
Don’t we all just love a good poll? And why wouldn’t we? It’s like the social media equivalent of having a secret superpower. Your audience gets to express their opinion, you get to collect valuable data – it’s a win-win.
Want to know if your followers prefer cats or dogs? Launch a poll. Want to find out if they enjoy your latest product or service? Get them to vote. A poll is the perfect way to make your audience feel heard, valued, and engaged. And guess what? It also nudges your content right up in the visibility stakes. You can see my example as I want to better understand the challenges my LinkedIn audience is facing when it comes to showing up on social media consistently. In less than an hour it already has 5 votes. I’ll be running this poll for a week and then depending on the results I will then make sure to include them and others in an upcoming blog, social post or sales page.
Agree or Disagree, and Let the Sparks Fly!
One of the most potent forms of opinionated content is the agree/disagree style. It’s where you put out a bold statement and invite your audience to take a stand. You’re no longer just a brand; you’re a conversation starter, a debate instigator, a thought leader.
And there’s more! By making your audience agree or disagree, you’re also making them self-qualify. Are they a fit for your brand or not? Only the mighty agree/disagree can reveal. It’s like having a sorting hat for your content strategy, and who wouldn’t want that?
The Conversation Starts Here!
But let’s not forget the real cherry on top – opinionated content is conversation-friendly! It’s like a golden ticket to a world of back-and-forths and also the entiiiire point of social media – to be social, get it?
You’re not just posting; you’re listening. You’re understanding. You’re getting to know your market inside-out. And the best part? You get to take your audiences’ words and, quite literally, recite them back. Because nothing feels quite as good as being understood, right?
So, here’s to opinionated content, the secret sauce that spices up your social media game, the dynamite that sets your engagement rates soaring, and the magical elixir that lets you connect with your audience on a whole new level. So why wait? Get opinionated, and watch the magic unfold!
