It used to be called link bait: the blog topics that use formulaic approaches to draw traffic, comments and links.
These days, such content might more aptly be called retweet bait.
For example, my Twitter stream is filled up with references to 10 simple things, 5 facts, 20 reasons, etc.
And I am all over simplifying complex topics through illustrations; however, some seem to feel that just wrapping the infographic label around your info is enough to get it read and passed along.
I am sure that it is not just me, but others that now tune out topics like these, instead of performing the desired action (the final straw was when I saw a tweet today featuring this headline: 5 Reasons to Use an Infographic as a Press Release).
Please note that what I am objecting to is implementation, not intention. While it is great idea to launch topics that are infectious and sticky, it is much harder to do this in a way that is not too blatant – and it is constantly evolving art, as people quickly jump on the latest methods for punching up headlines and launching viral content. (I liken this to the stock market; over time almost all gambits to exploit inefficiencies and gain advantage fall apart as others discover these and jump on board).
The sad thing is, I am sure some very good content is being ignored for these reasons.
Folks, I don’t want to seem too negative here and don’t mean to insult others’ efforts at launching content that will be read and enjoyed. I know I and many of my friends, colleagues and clients have been guilty of posts and tweets like these.
But maybe it is time for some fresh thinking and a new play book, just saying.
Stay tuned, infographic, 10 tips and video at 11 🙂
