The office of Web and new media recently presented an afternoon of training for University website editors, bloggers and social media managers.

The first session focused on writing for websites, blogs and social media — with an emphasis on optimizing content for mobile devices.

Website: Where users go to get information

Users visit your website because they are seeking information, and they typically come into your website with specific questions.

Strategies for helping users find information:

• Test your website’s organization by asking someone to find something on it. How (and how easily) does that person locate the information you requested?
• Identify your audiences and goals. Get input from other stakeholders, and write your goals down so that everyone stays on the same page.
• Think mobile first. Lean text, engaging visuals and clear structure are critical.

When updating your website, identify who your audience is, what they’re looking for and what you want them to do. –@lucieamberg

— Web & New Media (@MSUWEB) March 31, 2015

When writing for mobile, limit paragraphs to one or two sentences, 140-200 characters. What looks small on a desktop looks large on a phone. — Web & New Media (@MSUWEB) March 31, 2015

Blog: The perfect place to tell a story

Users approach blogs with a broader goal — they want to get to know you better.

Strategies for telling your story:

• Users will notice how recently you’ve updated your blog. Updating at least once per week tells readers that you’re enthusiastic and have lots of news and ideas to share.
• Get visual! Include photos and videos when possible.
• Engage readers with classic storytelling techniques.

Use storytelling tactics when writing for your blog. Ex: Tell the story from a specific point of view, use details, subvert expectations.

— Web & New Media (@MSUWEB) March 31, 2015

Social media: A way to create new impressions

Social media users are looking to engage and discover — casually. Take advantage of social media platforms to encounter new people or present a different side of your program to those who already know about it.

Strategies for tackling social media:

• Think long term; commit to sharing quality content and post consistently.
• Know your goals, and keep them realistic. Use social media to engage and direct people back to your website or blog.

Own your content. It should live on your website/blog. Then use social media to share your content & engage with your audience @lucieamberg — Web & New Media (@MSUWEB) March 31, 2015

Access the presentation

• Find Your Place – Short and Snappy

Read the recap of Find Your Place – Session 2.