10 Practical Tips to Boost Your Social Media Shares

Want More Social Media Shares? Start Here.

Getting people to share your content isn’t just about luck—it’s strategy.

When someone shares your post, they’re vouching for you. That single action can increase your visibility, build authority, and drive new traffic to your brand.

But here’s the thing most creators miss: it’s not about asking for shares—it’s about giving people a reason to share.

In this post, I’ll break down 10 powerful tips to help your content get shared more often. These aren’t surface-level hacks. They’re real, actionable moves I’ve used to increase shares across platforms like X, LinkedIn, TikTok and even Tumblr.

Whether you’re growing a business, launching a product, or simply building your personal brand—this will help.

With e-commerce sales projected to surpass $6.86 trillion by 2025, digital products and shareable content are key players in online visibility and growth. Source: SellersCommerce

Key Takeaways: Social Media Shares

• Create visually appealing content that delivers value fast

• Ask for the share — sometimes, all it takes is a direct prompt

• Write click-worthy headlines that spark curiosity and interest

• Build authentic relationships with people who already have an audience

• Tell relatable stories that your audience emotionally connects with

1. Prioritize Shareable Content

If you want people to share your content, you need to give them something that feels worth sharing.

It sounds obvious, but most content gets ignored because it doesn’t resonate, stand out visually, or offer value quickly. Think about what makes you stop scrolling—and more importantly, what makes you share something with a friend or your audience.

Here’s how I approach it:

• Use visuals to stop the scroll – Images, short videos, and clean designs catch the eye more than plain text.

• Focus on “edutainment” – Combine education with entertainment. A useful tip delivered in a creative way beats a dry info dump every time.

• Study what’s working – Scroll through Tumblr, Instagram, or even Threads. What types of posts are getting shared or reblogged? What format are they using?

Sometimes a quote image with a single strong insight performs better than a 1,000-word essay. Other times, it’s a relatable story or a carousel breaking down a complex idea.

What matters is how people feel when they see it. If it helps them look smart, feel seen, or solve a problem—they’ll share it.

Shareable content is useful, emotional, or visually compelling. Focus on formats and messages people actually want to pass along.

2. Ask People to Share Your Content

It’s simple, but most people skip this step: just ask.

If your content is good and helpful, your audience often just needs a nudge. A short, direct line like “Feel free to share this if it helped you” goes a long way. You’re not begging—you’re inviting.

Sometimes we assume that if people liked the post, they’ll automatically share it. But attention is short. A clear reminder makes all the difference.

Here’s what I use (and recommend):

• A short CTA at the end of the post or page:

• “If this helped you, share it with someone who needs it.”

• A share link in your newsletter or blog post.

• A pinned comment asking for shares.

And if you’re offering free value (like a tool, ebook, checklist, or insight), people are even more likely to pay it forward.

Asking directly increases your chances of getting shared—especially when your audience already trusts you.

People are more likely to share if you ask clearly and make it easy. Include simple CTAs and frictionless sharing tools.

3. Make Great Content People Actually Want to Share

Let’s get real—no one’s sharing something that’s mediocre.

If your content isn’t useful, inspiring, or interesting, it’s not going anywhere. Social sharing starts with quality. That doesn’t mean perfection—it means value. What does your audience get out of it?

People share what:

• Solves a problem they’ve been struggling with

• Says what they’re thinking — but better

• Makes them look smart or helpful by sharing it

• Delivers an unexpected “aha!” moment

That’s why I always ask myself: Would I send this to a friend?

 If the answer is no, I go back and revise. Sharable content often teaches, entertains, surprises—or all three.

Here’s what helps:

• Focus on clarity over cleverness

• Deliver on your headline’s promise

• Add original insight or a personal angle

• Cut the fluff—tight content = shareable content

Remember, people don’t share for you. They share because it helps or reflects something about them.

High-quality content is your foundation. Without it, no strategy in the world will make people hit that share button.

Useful, insightful, or entertaining content is more likely to be shared. Focus on delivering real value that resonates with your audience.

4. Write Headlines That Earn the Click

You could have the best content in the world—but if the headline doesn’t spark interest, no one will click, let alone share. Your headline is the gateway. The hook. The one shot you’ve got to stop the scroll.

That’s why I treat every headline like a mini pitch. It needs to be:

• Clear (what’s the value?)

• Specific (who’s it for?)

• Intriguing (why should I care right now?)

Here’s what I’ve seen work well:

• Numbers work. Lists give people a sense of structure and payoff. Think: “7 Ways to Boost Engagement Without Posting More.”

• Questions get attention. Try: “Are You Still Using Social Media Like It’s 2019?”

• Problem-solution framing. Call out the issue, then promise a result. For example: “Struggling With Low Reach? Try This Simple Content Shift.”

Test variations. Watch what people are responding to. One small tweak in your headline can double your shares.

And avoid clickbait. You’ll get clicks, but not trust—or re-shares.

If the headline doesn’t pull people in, your great content might never even get seen.

If your headline doesn’t spark curiosity or promise something worth clicking, it’ll get scrolled past. A good one grabs attention, hints at value, and makes people think, 'I need to see this.

5. Build Genuine Connections with Influencers

To boost social shares fast, connect with people who already have your audience’s attention. I’m talking about creators, thought leaders, and niche influencers—not necessarily the ones with millions of followers, but the ones with real trust and engagement.

But don’t make it transactional. Relationships beat reach every time.

Here’s how I approach it:

• Engage first. Leave thoughtful comments. Share their content with a genuine note. Not just a like.

• Support their work. If they launch something valuable, amplify it. Don’t ask for anything—just show up.

• Start a conversation. When it feels natural, reply to their posts or send a short DM. Not to pitch. Just to connect.

• Collaborate when the time is right. That might be a shared post, a guest contribution, or a co-branded resource.

I’ve built long-term relationships just by being consistent and curious. You don’t need a “strategy” to be a good human.

One strong connection can amplify your reach more than a dozen hashtags ever will.

With 43% of U.S. internet users identified as social media shoppers [⁴], the influence of trusted voices online is more valuable than ever. Source: Think with Google

Focus on building genuine relationships with influencers to grow reach and earn trust-based shares over time.

6. Create an Offer People Want to Share

If you want more shares, give people a reason to talk about you.

That doesn’t mean shouting “buy now” every two seconds. It means creating something so useful, relevant, or irresistible that people want to pass it along.

Think less “limited time sale” and more “this could really help someone I know.”

What makes something share-worthy?

• It solves a real problem.

• It feels valuable (even if it’s free).

• It’s easy to understand and even easier to share.

I've tested a lot of offers over the years, and here's what tends to work:

• Free tools or resources: Think checklists, templates, or swipe files.

• Mini challenges or experiences: Something interactive that invites others in. I hosted live events (and still do!)

• Quick wins: Bite-sized outcomes that give people an “I did it!” moment.

• Referral rewards: People love recommending things—especially when there's a little thank-you involved.

The booming $404B EdTech market forecast by 2025 shows how much demand there is for online learning products people can share and use instantly. Source: HolonIQ

Make your offer easy to talk about. Use clear benefits. Add a strong visual. Wrap it in a story if you can. You're not just asking people to share—you're giving them something they're proud to share.

Content that delivers quick value or solves a real problem tends to be shared more, especially when it’s packaged as a useful freebie or win.

7. Make It Look Good — Really Good

You can have the best idea in the world, but if it looks messy, most people will scroll right past it.

Online, visuals are half the battle. If your content isn’t visually appealing, it’s not getting shared.

You don’t need to be a designer — you just need to be intentional.

Here’s what I always focus on:

• Clear layout: No clutter. Clean spacing. Easy to scan.

• Consistent visuals: Use brand colors, fonts, or a recognizable style across your content.

• Custom graphics or mockups: These make your ideas feel tangible and share-worthy.

• Readable text: Make sure everything is legible — especially on mobile.

Even if you're just posting a quote or a tip, the presentation matters. Use Canva, Flexclip, Figma, or even Notion to create clean, professional visuals fast.

People share things that look good because it reflects well on them. Make your content easy to repost — and worth showing off.

Well-designed content builds trust and encourages shares by making your message feel more credible, clear, and valuable at a glance.

8. Format for Scroll-First Readers

Let’s be honest — most people aren’t reading every word. They’re skimming.

So if your content looks like a wall of text, it’s game over.

Formatting isn’t just a design thing — it’s a readability thing. It determines whether someone stays long enough to get your message… or taps out in two seconds.

Here’s how I keep my content scannable:

• Short paragraphs: 2–4 lines max. Big blocks chase people away.

• Subheadings: Break your content into clear, digestible parts.

• Bullet points: Great for lists, tips, or features. Easy to scan, easy to share.

• Bold key lines: But only sparingly. Use it to highlight takeaways, not every sentence.

• White space: Let your layout breathe. Don’t cram everything together.

You’re not dumbing things down. You’re respecting your reader’s time.

Good formatting = higher retention. Higher retention = more shares.

Scannable content gets read more, shared more, and remembered more — especially on mobile.

9. Connect Through Storytelling

Want people to care—and share? Telling my parents l a story.

 Humans don’t just process stories—we feel them. Whether it’s a personal journey, a client transformation, or a lesson learned the hard way, storytelling gives your content weight.

Even if your post is educational or data-driven, you can still wrap it in a story. Set the scene. Show the struggle. Deliver the “aha” moment. When people feel something, they’re far more likely to pass it on.

Here’s how I like to bring storytelling into content:

• Start with a moment. “Last year, I launched a product that flopped—until I realized…”

• Highlight a transformation. What changed? What did you learn?

• Tie it back to the reader. What’s in it for them?

You don’t have to be a novelist. Just speak like a real human. Make it relatable, and give people something to nod along with or say, “I needed to hear that.”

Stories make your content feel real—and real gets shared.

10. Ride the Momentum of Trends (Without Losing Yourself)

10. Ride the Momentum of Trends (Without Losing Yourself)

If something’s gaining traction in your niche, don’t ignore it. Smart creators often engage in timely conversations — not to chase clout, but to stay part of what their audience is already paying attention to.

But here’s the key: make it your own.

If there’s a trending topic, viral meme, or cultural moment that aligns with your message, consider offering your unique perspective. Add context. Flip the angle. Share insight that helps your audience think differently — or simply feel more connected.

Before I engage with a trend, I ask:

• Does this align with my audience and brand message?

• Can I contribute something helpful, thoughtful, or original?

• Is this still relevant — or already fading out?

Timing helps. But relevance and voice matter more.

You can even schedule time each week to browse platforms like X (formerly Twitter), Tumblr, or niche forums.See what topics people are reacting to and whether there's a meaningful way for your content to join the conversation.

But remember:Don’t lose your voice in the process.Staying authentic builds trust — and trust earns long-term engagement, with or without trends.

Wrapping It Up

Social media shares don’t happen by accident. They come from intention—crafting content that connects, formatting it so it’s easy to consume, and delivering it in a way that feels valuable and worth passing on.

The tips you’ve seen here aren’t hacks—they’re habits. From making your content scannable to writing magnetic headlines and connecting emotionally, it all adds up.

You don’t need to apply every single strategy at once. Start where you are. Experiment. Track what works. And keep showing up with content worth sharing.

Because the more people share your work, the more your message spreads.

📌 Next step: Check the FAQ below for practical answers—and don’t miss the glossary if you’re new to some of the terms.

Thanks for reading,

Laurence

Frequently Asked Questions

Why are social media shares important?

Social shares can expand your visibility, increase reach, and help attract more traffic and engagement — especially when your content is relevant and timely.

What type of content gets shared the most?

 Content that is entertaining, emotionally engaging, visually compelling, or genuinely helpful tends to perform best. People share what makes them feel something or solves a problem.

How can I ask my audience to share my content?

 Ask directly—with a clear call to action. For example: “If this helped you, share it with someone who needs it.” You can also use sharing buttons and include reminders in your captions or at the end of blog posts.

What makes a good headline for my posts?

 A great headline grabs attention quickly. Use numbers, power words, or questions. Be clear about the value you're offering—what will someone gain by clicking?

How can I create visually appealing content?

 Use clean layouts, bold typography, and scroll-stopping visuals like infographics or branded graphics. Even a simple Canva design can elevate your post’s shareability.

What are some effective ways to engage with influencers?

 Start by following them, leaving thoughtful comments, and resharing their content. Once you’ve built familiarity, you can reach out with a personalized message or collaboration idea.

How can I make my content easier to read?

 Use short paragraphs, headers, bullet points, and bold text to guide the reader’s eye. Make your post easy to scan—especially on mobile.

What are some current trends I can use to increase shares?

Keep an eye on what’s trending on platforms like Tumblr, X (formerly Twitter), and Instagram. Look for seasonal themes, cultural moments, or viral formats that resonate with your audience — and adapt them in a way that fits your brand voice. Trends can improve visibility, but lasting engagement comes from authenticity.

Glossary of Key Terms

A collection of key terms and definitions related to social media marketing and analytics.

Active Users

The number of unique users who engage with a social media platform over a specific period.

Analytics

The systematic analysis of data related to social media performance and user engagement.

API

A set of protocols that allows different software applications to communicate with each other, often used to integrate social media functionalities.

Benchmark

A standard or point of reference used to measure social media performance against industry standards or competitors.

Best Practices

Recommended strategies and techniques for optimizing social media use and engagement.

Brand Awareness

The extent to which consumers recognize and recall a brand.

Brand Visibility

The degree to which a brand is seen and recognized in the marketplace, particularly on social media.

Channel

A medium through which content is shared or distributed, such as social media platforms.

Community Building

The process of creating and nurturing a group of individuals who share common interests on social media.

Content Marketing

A marketing strategy focused on creating and distributing valuable content to attract and engage a target audience.

Content Reach

The total number of unique users who see a piece of content on social media.

Content Strategy

A plan that outlines how content will be created, published, and managed to achieve specific business goals.

Conversion

The process of turning a social media interaction into a desired action, such as a purchase or sign-up.

Giveaway

A promotional event where items are given away to participants, often used to increase engagement and shares on social media.

Graph

A visual representation of data, often used to illustrate social media metrics and trends.

Influencer Marketing

A strategy that involves partnering with influential individuals to promote a brand or product on social media.

Landing Pages

Web pages designed specifically for a marketing or advertising campaign, often optimized for converting visitors into leads or customers.

Meta Platforms

The parent company of Facebook and Instagram, focusing on building social media experiences.

Metric

A standard of measurement used to assess the performance of social media efforts.

Poll

A survey conducted on social media to gather opinions or preferences from users.

SEO

Search Engine Optimization; the practice of optimizing content to rank higher in search engine results.

Share Content

The act of distributing content on social media platforms for others to view and engage with.

Social Media Shares

The act of reposting or spreading content across social media platforms.

Social Network

A platform that enables users to create profiles, connect with others, and share content.

Top Social Media Stocks

Shares of leading companies in the social media industry, known for their growth potential and market impact.

Valuable Content

Content that provides meaningful information or entertainment, encouraging user engagement and sharing.

Target Audience

The specific group of consumers that a brand aims to reach with its marketing efforts.

Peak Engagement

The highest level of interaction that content receives within a specific timeframe.