In today’s digital world, social media is a powerful tool for communication, connection, and brand growth. But if your content isn’t accessible to everyone, you could be unintentionally excluding a large portion of your audience. Making your social media posts more inclusive ensures that people with disabilities, language barriers, and different learning styles can engage with your content. Here’s how to create accessible social media posts that reach and resonate with more people.
1. Use Alt Text for Images
Alt text (alternative text) provides a written description of an image so that screen readers can interpret it for visually impaired users. When writing alt text:
- Keep it concise but descriptive.
- Avoid redundant phrases like “image of” or “picture of.”
- Focus on key details that convey the message of the image.
Example: Instead of “Image of a woman,” write “A smiling woman holding a cup of coffee in a cozy café.”
2. Ensure Your Videos Have Captions and Transcripts
Captions and transcripts help people who are deaf or hard of hearing, as well as those who prefer to watch content without sound.
- Use auto-captioning tools, but always edit them for accuracy.
- Provide full transcripts for longer videos so users can read along.
- Burn captions directly into videos to ensure they remain visible across all platforms.
3. Write in Plain Language
Complex jargon and long-winded sentences can make it difficult for many users to understand your content. Aim for clarity and simplicity:
- Use short sentences and common words.
- Avoid industry-specific terms unless necessary.
- Break up large blocks of text with bullet points or numbered lists.
4. Use CamelCase for Hashtags
Hashtags written in lowercase can be difficult to read, especially for screen readers. Instead, capitalize the first letter of each word for better clarity.
❌ #socialmediatips
✅ #SocialMediaTips
This small change makes a big difference in readability.
5. Consider Color Contrast and Font Choice
Low-contrast text can be hard to read, especially for users with visual impairments or color blindness. To improve readability:
- Use high-contrast color combinations (e.g., dark text on a light background).
- Avoid using color alone to convey meaning—pair it with text or symbols.
- Choose easy-to-read fonts and avoid overly decorative styles.
6. Make Your Links Descriptive
Screen readers rely on clear link descriptions to help users navigate content. Instead of vague phrases like “Click here” or “Read more,” use descriptive text that tells users where the link will take them.
❌ Click here for more info
✅ Learn more about our accessibility tips
7. Use Emojis Sparingly and Thoughtfully
While emojis add personality to posts, they can also be a barrier to accessibility. Screen readers read out each emoji’s description, which can make a post confusing.
- Avoid using multiple emojis in a row.
- Place emojis at the end of sentences rather than in the middle of text.
- Ensure emojis add meaning rather than replacing words.
8. Test Your Posts for Accessibility
Before publishing, take an extra step to check how accessible your post is:
- Use accessibility tools like WAVE or WebAIM to analyze contrast and readability.
- Test screen reader compatibility on different devices.
- Ask for feedback from diverse users to ensure inclusivity.
Conclusion
Accessibility isn’t just about compliance—it’s about creating an inclusive digital space where everyone can participate. By implementing these simple yet effective strategies, you’ll expand your reach, improve user experience, and foster a more inclusive online community.
Want to make your brand more accessible? Contact us today for expert social media strategies that ensure no audience is left behind!