On social media, grabbing attention in a user’s feed is a constant struggle. So much competition means innovation can be tough, but standing out arguably matters more than ever. One way you can get that done is by refining your hashtag and thumbnail efforts.

Hashtags serve a vital purpose, directing and focusing attention into actionable interest. Meanwhile, a captivating thumbnail can be the difference between a click and a scroll-by. To up your social media game in 2024, you need to master the art of both. The blog below will help you do just that! Check out some expert hints and tips below, courtesy of Blue Orchid Marketing.

Hashtags: Finding the Sweet Spot

In some ways, hashtags are like keywords for social media, especially on Instagram. They help users discover content related to their interests, and using the right ones can significantly boost your reach. Try to focus on the following:

1. Community-Specific Hashtags: Social media platforms are becoming more community-driven. Focus on hashtags relevant to your niche audience for a more targeted reach. For instance, #bookstagram for book lovers on Instagram or #codinglife for programmers on Twitter (X).
2. Niche Targeting: Don’t just rely on broad, generic hashtags. Explore niche-specific variations that cater to your specific content.
3. Hashtag Research Tools: Several free and paid tools can help you identify trending hashtags and analyze competitor usage. Utilize these resources to stay ahead of the curve.
4. But remember: It’s always possible to have too much of a good thing. Overloading folks with redundant hashtags could have the opposite of your intended effect, so stick with the recommended 3-5 hashtags for a single post in general. This number is usually in flux, though, so keep an eye out for any changes.

Thumbnail Magic: A Picture (or Video) Worth a Thousand Clicks

Thumbnails are your visual hook, the tiny image that entices users to click on your content.

Here’s how to create captivating ones in 2024:

1. High Quality Matters: Ensure your thumbnails are clear, crisp, and high-resolution. Blurry or pixelated images will do nothing but deter viewers.
2. Eye-Catching Text: Use clear, concise text that summarizes your content and piques interest. Bold fonts, contrasting colors, and emojis can all increase engagement.
3. Intrigue, Don’t Spoil: Don’t give away the entire story in your thumbnail. Create a sense of mystery that compels users to click and learn more.
4. Pro Tip: Utilize design tools like Canva to create professional-looking thumbnails in minutes, even with no design experience!
5. Consistency is key!: Develop a visual style for your thumbnails that aligns with your brand identity and audience preferences.

Want to learn more about how you can perfect your hashtags and thumbnails? Call us at 203-746-5901! You can also email us at sales@BlueOrchidMarketing.com today to schedule a consultation to discuss our digital marketing services.