First things first: what is a social media card? A social media card is a custom-designed image that you can use in a link preview on your social media posts. As anyone who has ever shared links to Facebook or Twitter knows, the automatic function to use an image from the link sometimes pulls the wrong image or none at all. Creating a custom image and setting that as the link preview eliminates this problem and allows you to show your audience what the link is about, without worrying about an automated system failing you.
So we’ve defined social media cards. The next problem, of course, is how to create one that will spark enough interest to earn clicks. No one is interested in a seemingly boring image, after all! On the other hand, potential readers will be equally turned off by a painfully colorful image that’s just trying too hard. How can you design a clickable social media card that attracts quality views?
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Why to Use Social Media Cards
The biggest advantage of custom social media cards is branding. Customizing your posts with colorful images stamped with your logo increases your visibility online and, better yet, helps your customers associate your brand with quality content. It also ensures that if anyone shares your post, they’re sharing your logo too!
Get Creative!
You probably already have a favorite graphic design software. Browse through the predesigned templates it likely provides, or look up other examples similar to what you want to make. Take note of which elements you like and how they can increase your post’s visibility.
Once you have an idea of what you want to create, take the plunge! Experiment with different shapes, colors, images, and more to create an eye-catching, branded image. Determine your particular aesthetic and color scheme for this particular post. And of course, don’t forget your copy! Your logo isn’t enough on its own–include just enough copy to give your audience a preview of the post they’re about to read.
Pro Tip: New to graphic design? Experiment with programs such as Canva to practice before you take the plunge.
Staying Unique
We all know what a social media link preview looks like, and experienced users can often tell if the image that appears is the default or not. These posts start to blur after a while. A well-designed card breaks the flow and genuinely catches someone’s attention by standing out from the crowd. Are your designs up to the test?
An Ongoing Process
Like any part of SEO or online marketing, social media card design is an evolving art. You have to keep timing as well as audience demographics in mind as you design your clickable image. Watch your posts with custom social cards and see how well your designs are performing. Learn from your mistakes and successes alike and build your way to a better social posting strategy!
Join the conversation to learn more about effective social media marketing.
