Why social media content accessibility matters
Wherever you’re posting, be it LinkedIn, Facebook or Instagram, making your content accessible will also improve overall performance, and optimise it for search engines.
Here are five ways to do that:
1. Add alt text to images
Alt text is a written description of an image, which can be read by screen readers and allows a person to paint a mental picture the image.
When writing alt text, consider how you’d describe the image if you were chatting to someone on the phone.
2. Include captions on videos
Captions are a must on any video published on social media.
Firstly for accessibility, but also because video content is often watched without sound and the captions bring it to life.
Most channels have auto captions now, so turn them on when you upload a video. Alternatively, you can design the captions into the video or use a video editing app to add them.
3. Be mindful of emojis
Screen readers read the names of emojis so ๐ will be read as “clapping hands”.
Imagine that when there are six emojis in a row, alongside text – it would be a confusing nightmare!
While emojis can convey emotion and make content visually appealing, always be mindful of how a screen reader will read the content.
4. Avoid custom fonts
While custom fonts may seem like a good idea, they’re not. Take this as an example: ๐ข๐ต๐๐ช๐ญ๐ฉ๐ข
They’re characters you wouldn’t find on a regular keyboard and are unable to be effectively read by a screen reader.
Keep it simple and stick to standard keyboard characters.
5. Write hashtags in CamelCase or PascalCase
Cap up the first letter of each word you use in a hashtag.
#LikeThis and not #likethis
Doing that will allow screen reader technology to pick up the different words in the hashtag, and they look more visually appealing in general.
These five changes are subtle additions to your content creation and publication process, but all will have a big impact on accessibility.
Make an enquiry to understand more ways that we can make your content accessible and inclusive.
Make your social media content more accessible
- Add alt text to images
- Include captions on videos
- Be mindful of emojis
- Avoid custom fonts
- Write hashtags in CamelCase or PascalCase
Social media content accessibility: FAQs
What is alt text on social media?
Alt text is a written description added to an image that can be read by screen reader technology. It helps people with visual impairments understand what an image shows, and is supported by most major social media platforms.
Do social media videos need captions?
Yes. Captions are essential – both for accessibility and because most social media video is watched without sound. Most platforms now offer automatic captions, which can be turned on at upload.
What is CamelCase and why does it matter for hashtags?
CamelCase means capitalising the first letter of each word in a hashtag, like #SocialMediaTips instead of #socialmediatips. This allows screen readers to identify individual words correctly, making hashtags accessible to everyone.
