6 Strategic Ways to Present Your Content (Plus a Bonus)
In my 8+ years of social media strategy experience, I’ve learned that content presentation is just as crucial as the content itself. Today, I’m pulling back the curtain on my go-to formats for presenting ideas. These aren’t your run-of-the-mill tips — they’re battle-tested strategies that I’ve refined over time.
Why Content Presentation Matters
Before we jump in, let’s get one thing straight: your content deserves more than a one-size-fits-all approach. The way you package your ideas can make or break their impact. Trust me, I’ve seen it firsthand while working with brands on everything from product launches to influencer campaigns.
The 6 (+1) Content Presentation Formats
1. Listicle of Solutions
This is your bread and butter. It’s straightforward, easy to digest, and gives your audience quick wins.
When to use it: Perfect for weekends when your audience wants quick, actionable tips without deep dives.
2. Listicle of Problems and Solutions
This format shows you understand your audience’s pain points and have the answers they need.
When to use it: Ideal for establishing credibility and showing empathy with your audience’s challenges.
3. Listicle Expanding on Problems
Sometimes, diving deep into the problems resonates more than quick fixes.
When to use it: Use this when you want to build rapport and show that you truly get what your audience is going through.
4. Listicle Expanding on Solutions
This is where you flex your expertise. It’s about going beyond surface-level advice.
When to use it: Great for weekdays when your audience is in a more focused, problem-solving mindset.
5. Making Solutions Actionable
Don’t just tell them what to do — show them how to do it.
When to use it: This works well when you’re targeting an audience that’s ready to roll up their sleeves and implement.
6. Presenting Actions at the End
Build up to a crescendo of actionable steps.
When to use it: Use this when you want to provide context before diving into the “how-to” part.
7. Listicle with a Carousel
Mix it up visually. This format works wonders on platforms that support carousel posts.
When to use it: Ideal for complex topics that benefit from visual breakdowns.
How I Choose the Right Format
Here’s the real talk: I switch these formats around based on three key factors:
- Vibes: Read the room. What’s the mood on social media that day?
- Time on my hands: Let’s be real — sometimes you need a quick win, other times you can go all out.
- Depth of topic: Some ideas need more unpacking than others.
The Results Speak for Themselves
Over the last 5 months, I’ve put all these formats to the test. Here’s what I’ve found:
- Simpler listicles crush it on weekends.
- More actionable, in-depth content shines during the workweek.
You Don’t Need to Reinvent the Wheel
Here’s a secret that most “social media gurus” won’t tell you: you don’t have to come up with a brand new format every single time. The key is being strategic about your approach.
Take Action Now
- Look at your last 5 posts.
- Identify which format you used for each.
- Pick a different format for your next post.
- Track engagement and see how it compares.
Remember, this isn’t about following a strict formula. It’s about having a toolkit of formats that you can adapt to your needs and your audience’s preferences.
