Getting your personal brand to go viral using imagery

There’s no doubt images can make a story more powerful. They physically engage the reader and add another dimension to the words on a page.

So it’s no wonder that social media platforms have all adapted their algorithms to favour images. For instance, photos on Facebook generate 53 per cent more likes than text-based posts.

Images work so well because they are attention grabbing pieces of ‘snackable’ content which can evoke emotional reactions, particularly on social media.

It’s for this reason that images can help your personal brand go viral. Here’s how you can create your own pictures to share:

Compelling quotes

These can be your own quotes or from people who inspire you. The words need to be true to you, memorable, and not too long. Also, if they aren’t your words, obviously you need to attribute them.

The important thing is you need to match the image with the quote so they fit together well. The image needs to reflect your brand or what you want people to feel when they see it.

Use striking imagery

It’s really important that the images you choose capture exactly the feel of your brand. For instance, the visuals I use are beautiful, atmospheric, emotional and heartfelt.

You can use photos you take yourself or stock images. There are lots of stock photo libraries you can choose from, for example, Shutterstock, iStock and Getty Images.

You might also want to check out these free sites for images:

No attribution needed images:

Splitshire http://splitshire.com/
Picjumbohttp://picjumbo.com/
Unsplash http://unsplash.com
Death to the Stock Photo http://join.deathtothestockphoto.com/

Attribution required images:

Use apps to write your quotes on imagery

Canva is a great online option to use. Some other options and apps to use include:

Over (Mac and Android) http://madewithover.com/
Quick (for Android) https://play.google.com/store/apps/details?id=com.youthhr.phonto&hl=en

Pixlr http://pixlr.com/
Picmonkey http://www.picmonkey.com/
Be Funky http://www.befunky.com/
Gimp (Free open source software) http://www.gimp.org/

Brand the image

This is important, especially when others start sharing your images, as you want to make sure your brand is visible and people to make the connection between the image and where it came from. Just a tip, make sure this isn’t prominent as you don’t want to make the image too promotional.

Visuals are such a powerful way of creating emotion around your personal brand. Start thinking about how you can use imagery and adding some of your own content, your name, and your website URL to gain greater exposure for your personal brand.

Catriona Pollard is the author of From Unknown To Expert, a step by step framework designed to help entrepreneurs develop effective PR and social media strategies to become recognised as influencers in their field. www.unknowntoexpert.com

Catriona is also the director of CP Communications, which merges traditional PR tactics with cutting-edge social media strategies that engage consumers as well as business. www.cpcommunications.com.au