Write Captions Like a Pro
7 Simple Hacks to Writing Engaging Captions
Many people say things like they don’t post their products because they don’t know what to type. Some of them even complain of typing five lines of sentences without still posting anything about their products.
Trust me; I know how this feels. But what you are about to read will take your caption writing to the next level.
Let’s dive in!
First, let’s begin with asking what makes a good caption.
An engaging caption is a simple way to create engagement and generate sales for your business. However, more than that, it is a way to demonstrate your brand tone and story. Your caption is a second layer to your post that helps you connect with your followers and help them realize what you are selling.
Your caption is determined by what you are selling. For instance, if you are driving a campaign for women, your caption must be saying the same thing. If you are promoting user-generated content, your caption is a way to emphasize that purpose.
So how do you create captions that work?
1. Put the important things first — what is the primary purpose of this caption? If you can answer that, let that form the first sentence of your caption. Why? Platforms like Instagram, Facebook, and Whatsapp, for instance, show that part to your audience first. The idea is that the first sentence is enough to draw them into your post.
2. Keep it simple — there’s no need to make it sound or look too deep. Go straight to the point, keep it simple but make it YOU.
3. Use emojis — though I don’t buy the idea of sprinkling emojis all over your caption, you can use emojis strategically to show emotions. Use it at strategic places. You can also use it as bullet points, etc.
4. Include a call-to-action or ask questions — always include a call to action. What do you want your audience to do? Buy now, learn more, click the link in bio, send a message, check our website, and more. However, you can also use creative ways by asking engaging questions.
5. Tell a story — especially if you are a personal brand, tell stories a lot. If your audience knows you by those stories, you will soon have people turning notifications not to miss your content.
6. Write as you talk — there’s no point sounding like you are in a business meeting. Ensure to use simple and direct words. However, never stray away from your brand’s tone and always consider the platform you are using. However, remember that humans are social beings, and they only came to social media to ease the tension; you don’t want your caption to add to it.
7. Consider the length — this one is a bit dicey because one size doesn’t fit all. However, I advise you make it as short as possible. Not everyone can wait to read long captions. However, to know what works try both short and long captions and see which engages your audience.
8. Use hashtags — it took me a while to master this, but it works. Learn to include hashtags in between your captions.
9. Make it valuable — that’s the point of your caption in the first place. You already have your post, which is doing most of the work. You want to use the caption to either tell a story or emphasize your post or interestingly state your call to action.
Samples to help you generate ideas
The Sill and Short Captions
The Sill has found a way to encourage their audience to tag their friends and drop a comment. They also credit the artist who helped the reach of this post.
Adam Kurtz and Sassy Caption
Adam finds a way to encourage his users to tag others without straying away from his sassy and funny brand tone.
As you write your captions, ensure it is valuable and compelling…that’s the main principle. Whatever you do, it must work for your audience and embody your brand’s identity.
Did you find this guide useful? Please let me know.
Don’t forget to share too.
