Digital storytelling; it's a term widely named, but not widely implemented. There are 1,000 ways to tell a story on the Internet, but in order for your message to be heard above the noise, stories have to be told in a captivating and interesting way. Below are three basic ways to tell a story on social media.
1. Photos always win
There's nothing like a moment captured, and with smartphones, you're never too far away from snapping that perfect image. It's true that a picture can be worth 1,000 words, and when the concept is simple, post a photo and a short caption (5-10 words). Photos on Facebook also get a slightly higher EdgeRank score, which means better visibility in your audience's News Feed.
2. Graphics come in a close second
There's a reason why all those fancy, glossy magazines have talented graphic designers on staff -- because graphics can take a complex idea and repackage it in a way that's pleasing to the eye. If you've got an event coming up, don't use text to tell the time, date and place, take a screenshot of your flyer and use that as your graphic. Or, better yet? Quickly redesign your flyer to become a simple 650x650 graphic that can be shared across social media. But your graphic should never get too cluttered; a tagline, time, date and place is all that's needed.
3. Words come third
As a writer by trade, it pains me to say it, but words win the fight on social media. What do you share on Facebook? If you answer honestly, it's a great photo attached to a mediocre news story or pictures of your new niece or nephew. But if your story is too complex to tell in a simple photo or graphic, steer clear of first person always. Your audience wants to feel included in a conversation, not listening to a story. Involve them in the story by using "we" or "you."