The Saved vs. the Shared Content

The difference between the way people consume information through the internet is intriguing. There are posts which receive thousands of shares and minimal actual interaction. Others are quietly bookmarked and read over and over again by readers.

Social currency is content that is shared. It is aspirational, confirming or amusing. Consider inspirational quotes, hot thoughts about what is trending, or memes about Monday mornings. It is shared by people to indicate their values, make everyone laugh, or participate in discussions. It is external material, which expresses something about the sharer.

Saved content is highly practical or relevant to oneself. Recipes, lists of resources, templates to follow when working on a particular issue, or informative descriptions of the complicated issue. This material addresses real-life issues. Readers save it as they think that they will need it in the future or that they have learned something really valuable.

The difference? Reposted material leaves you in good light. A saved content makes you better.

You must have either as a content writer. The content that can be shared develops your reach and visibility. It puts you in front of new people. But content that can be saved gains power and devotion. It is what makes ordinary readers become your followers and believe in your competence.

The strategic move? Develop social hooks that give rise to depth of saving. Begin by hooking the attention with a thought-provoking point that people will be interested in and provide practical value that they will desire. A snappy headline will receive the click and share, whereas detailed, resourceful content will receive the bookmark.

Learn either and you will create an audience that does not simply view what you have to offer, but rather takes it on board.