Key Takeaways
- Even companies in “boring” industries can create visually stunning and engaging social media cover photos that stand out and make a lasting impression.
- Visual content is key in today’s digital world, and social media cover photos are a prime opportunity to grab attention and convey brand messages visually.
- There are various techniques for creating engaging cover photos, including using typography, photos, cartoons, incorporating platform-specific technology, and strategically aligning design elements.
Imagine you’re scrolling through social media, and suddenly, a cover photo catches your eye. It’s visually stunning, engaging, and perfectly captures the essence of the company it represents. But here’s the twist: it’s a company from an industry that’s often perceived as “boring.”
Yes, even companies in the most mundane industries can create social media cover photos that are anything but dull. In fact, they have a unique opportunity to stand out from the crowd and make a lasting impression.
The Power of Visual Content
Visual content is king in today’s digital world. According to a study by Social Media Examiner, 40% of people respond better to visual content than text. That’s why social media cover photos are so important. They’re a prime opportunity to grab attention and convey your brand message in a visually appealing way.
Techniques for Creating Engaging Cover Photos
There are endless ways to create engaging cover photos, but here are a few techniques that are particularly effective:
- Use typography, photos, and cartoons: Combine different elements to create a visually interesting and informative cover photo.
- Incorporate platform-specific technology: Take advantage of features like Facebook’s cover video or Twitter’s header photo to create a more dynamic cover photo.
- Align design elements strategically: Use the rule of thirds or other design principles to create a balanced and visually appealing composition.
- Add concise text descriptions: Use a few well-chosen words to explain your company’s mission or value proposition.
- Feature product images or abstract visuals that represent the brand: Showcase your products or services in a visually appealing way, or use abstract visuals to convey your brand’s personality.
- Utilize human faces to build connection and relatability: People are drawn to faces, so use them to create a more personal and engaging cover photo.
Examples of Exceptional Cover Photos
Now that you know the techniques, let’s take a look at some real-world examples of exceptional cover photos from companies in “boring” industries:
- Agilent Technologies: Uses a block design to represent different aspects of its business.
- Maersk Line: Positions design elements effectively for optimal impact.
- Cvent: Provides a clear description of the company using icons and text.
- Salesforce: Promotes an event with speaker headshots and geometric shapes.
- Grainger: Integrates text and photo design to convey a strong message.
- Organik SEO: Merges header photo and profile picture for a cohesive design.
- PGi: Features a product image in a visually appealing setting.
- VMware: Uses a symbolic photo to convey its brand message.
- Neenah Paper: Adds small design details to showcase its product.
- BearingPoint: Includes a logo in a shape that aligns with its digital branding.
- The BOSS Snowplow: Uses all-caps text and stark colors to convey toughness.
- Chevron: Features portraits of community members to humanize the brand.
- Magna Powertrain: Appeals to its audience by displaying images of vehicle parts.
- Accenture: Uses abstract visuals to communicate its business offerings.
- Allstate: Employs calming colors and cartoon images to alleviate anxiety.
YouTube
- Cisco: Features a stock-like photo with key URLs and hashtags.
- Oracle: Uses cartoonish images to convey complex concepts.
- Deloitte: Includes human faces and social media buttons to connect with viewers.
- EMC: Showcases a part of a more exciting product that it helped produce.
- Kinaxis: Creates an accessible design using geometric shapes and colors.
Google+
- IdeaPaint: Surprises visitors by revealing a room full of people writing on whiteboards.
- Caterpillar Inc.: Features real people and impressive machinery to appeal to its buyer personas.
- Intel: Designs a cover photo that resembles a computer processor.
- Media Temple: Presents a collage of images to humanize the company.
- SAP: Optimizes its cover photo for both small and large views.
Bonus: Remember, even if your industry is perceived as “boring,” your social media cover photo doesn’t have to be. Get creative, experiment with different techniques, and have fun with it. After all, your cover photo is a reflection of your brand, and you want it to make a lasting impression.
As Seth Godin once said, “Marketing is no longer about the stuff that you make, but about the stories you tell.” So tell your brand’s story through your social media cover photo, and make it a story that people will want to share.
Frequently Asked Questions:
What are some common mistakes to avoid when creating a social media cover photo?
Some common mistakes to avoid include using low-quality images, cluttering the design with too many elements, and not aligning the design elements strategically.
How often should I change my social media cover photo?
It’s a good idea to change your cover photo regularly to keep your social media presence fresh and engaging. Aim to change it every few months or as needed.
Can I use the same cover photo across all of my social media platforms?
It’s generally not recommended to use the same cover photo across all of your social media platforms. Each platform has its own unique dimensions and design requirements, so it’s best to tailor your cover photo to each platform.
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