Want to stand out on Social Media? Here are the design tips that you absolutely need!

by Shweta Bisht - Nov 05, 2024

Imagine scrolling through your social media feed, much like being at a party where everyone’s vying for attention. Amid the noise, there’s always that one person who stands out—not because they’re the loudest, but because they’re the most compelling, the most magnetic. In the world of social media, that’s the power of brilliant design. But how do you create posts that have that same magnetic pull?

To craft social media posts that not only catch the eye but also linger in the mind, you need more than just pretty pictures—you need strategy, creativity, and a touch of storytelling magic. Here’s how some of the most successful brands do it, and how you can too.

1. Tell a Story Through Design

People connect with stories, not just visuals. A well-crafted narrative can transform a simple post into a powerful message. Consider Nike’s “Dream Crazier” campaign. This iconic campaign featured Serena Williams narrating a story about breaking barriers and challenging norms. The visuals were bold, the message was clear, and the storytelling was compelling. This wasn’t just about selling shoes; it was about selling a dream, a belief, and that made all the difference.

2. Create FOMO (Fear of Missing Out)

Design can create a sense of urgency and exclusivity. A standout example is the “Supreme Drops.” The streetwear brand Supreme has mastered the art of creating FOMO with its limited-edition drops. Their social media posts are minimalist, often just a simple image of the product with a release date, but the scarcity and the hype surrounding each drop make these posts incredibly effective. Fans know that if they don’t act fast, they’ll miss out, which drives immediate engagement.

3. Use Visual Metaphors

A visual metaphor can convey complex ideas in an instant. For instance, Apple’s “Think Different” campaign used striking black-and-white portraits of visionary figures like Albert Einstein and Gandhi to symbolise innovation and nonconformity. The minimalist design, combined with powerful imagery, created a lasting impact that resonated with Apple’s audience on a deeper level.

4. Incorporate User-Generated Content

Showcasing content created by your users builds community and trust. Starbucks does this exceptionally well with their #RedCupContest, where they encourage customers to share photos of their holiday-themed cups. These posts not only engage their audience but also create a sense of belonging and brand loyalty. The user-generated content is then shared across Starbucks’ social media channels, adding authenticity to their brand presence.

5. Leverage the Power of Contrast

Contrast in design can create drama and highlight key messages. Netflix’s “Black Mirror” marketing campaign used stark contrasts to great effect. To promote the show’s dystopian themes, they used black-and-white imagery with high contrast, emphasising the show’s dark and unsettling nature. This visual approach immediately caught attention and perfectly matched the tone of the series.

6. Use Pop Culture References

Pop culture references can make your content feel relevant and relatable. When the final season of “Game of Thrones” was airing, Oreo released a limited-edition series of biscuits with designs inspired by the show. They even recreated the entire opening sequence of “Game of Thrones” using Oreo cookies, which went viral on social media. This clever tie-in made the brand part of the cultural conversation and delighted fans of the show.

7. Design for Accessibility

Inclusive design ensures your content is accessible to everyone. One noteworthy example is LinkedIn, which has made significant strides in accessibility by adding features like automatic captions for videos and alt text for images. These features ensure that their content is accessible to users with disabilities, thereby broadening their audience and demonstrating a commitment to inclusivity.

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Creating impactful social media posts is like crafting a story that not only captivates but also resonates with your audience. By incorporating storytelling, leveraging contrast, using pop culture references, and embracing innovative technologies like AR, you can create posts that stand out in a crowded feed and leave a lasting impression. Every detail in your social media creative design—whether it’s the use of visual metaphors or the integration of user-generated content—can elevate your brand and connect with your audience on a deeper level.

So, as you craft your next social media post, think beyond the visuals—think about the story you’re telling and the impact you want to make.