When trying to grab a reader's attention online, you only have a 15-second window. So, how do you make the most out of that short time? It's actually pretty simple – cut the jargon.

Here are four writing tips to help you get started:

Use Active Voice

As discussed in one of our recent blogs, a sentence in active voice uses a “subject-verb-object” formula. Writing in this format cuts down your word count and simplifies sentences for readers. 

Passive Voice: That website was visited by me.

Active Voice: I visited that website. 

Use More Simple Terms 

Usually, when writing, we provide as much detail as possible to hit a word count. On social media, however, we write to inform quickly and efficiently. Our main goal is to cater to every reader – that is what truly makes you stand out to users. You need to know your audience and who you are writing for

Stick to simple terms that everyone will know. If you must use niche terms, make sure to define them for your audience. Nothing turns away a reader like an overload of information they don’t understand.

Be Aware of Cliches 

Using simple terminology also includes trimming down your use of cliches. These overused phrases tend to hurt your readability rather than improve it. Instead, it’s better to omit them to keep your sentences short and to the point! 

Cliche: At this moment in time

Replacement: Now

Cliche: At the end of the day

Replacement: Ultimately

Use Parallel Structure 

Parallel structure means all the terms in a sentence follow the same grammatical patterns; verbs are in the same tense, nouns use the same number of adjectives, etc. Having this balanced sentence structure makes it easier for users to read along.

Non-Parallel Structure: Last night I cooked dinner, had a call with my mother, and was watching an amazing movie.

Parallel Structure: Last night I cooked dinner, called my mother, and watched a movie.

Why Cut the Jargon?

Using too much technical or industry jargon can be costly to your business. Just because you or others working in the same industry know what you’re talking about, it doesn’t necessarily mean your audience does. If you want to keep your readers attention, you want to keep things as clear and simple as possible, especially if you want those readers to become clients or customers in the future.

Need help breaking that 15-second barrier with users? Contact Social Stamina today to get started creating your custom social media strategy.