Hey content creators! Ever feel like your social media strategy is just vibes and no structure? (Been there, no judgment.) You post, you engage, you try to stay consistent, but it still feels like something’s missing. Enter: the 50/30/20 rule. This isn’t just another marketing buzzword—it’s a straightforward formula to help you balance your content, grow your community, and stop wasting time (and let’s be honest, sanity) on guesswork.
So, what’s the deal with this magic ratio? Let’s break it down.
The 50%: Value-Packed Content
Half your posts should be all about them (your community). What do they need? What do they care about? This is where you share tips, advice, and insights that make their lives better. Think infographics, how-tos, or industry trends. The key here is value. If your community isn’t walking away with an “aha!” moment, rethink the post.
(Pro tip: You don’t need to reinvent the wheel. Repurpose a blog, webinar, or newsletter. Boom. Value delivered.)
The 20%: Promotional Content
Finally, the part where you talk about yourself—but keep it short and sweet. Use this 20% for sharing your products, services, and brand announcements. If you’re launching a new offer, hosting an event, or dropping a limited-time discount, this is the place to shout it out. Just remember: no one likes a feed that feels like a never-ending sales pitch.
Why This Rule Works
The beauty of the 50/30/20 rule is its simplicity. It keeps your content balanced, so you’re not overloading your community with promos or forgetting to connect. Plus, it’s flexible—you can tweak it to suit your brand and community. (Just don’t tweak it so much that it turns into 80% cat memes, unless you’re a cat influencer.)
Say you’re running a fitness brand. Your 50% could include workout tips, healthy recipes, or motivational posts. Your 30% might be a poll asking, “What’s your go-to post-workout snack?” or a video of your team setting up a new gym space. The 20%? Announcing your new program or promoting your merch.
If you’ve been feeling stuck or overwhelmed with social media, give this rule a shot. It’s not a magic wand (sorry), but it is a super practical way to focus your efforts and connect with your community in a meaningful way.
For more insights and tips on social media strategy, check out Hootsuite’s guide to content marketing—because who doesn’t love an extra dose of inspiration?
And if you’re ready to level up your social game but don’t have the time (or energy), get in touch with us at Olsen Agency. Let’s make magic happen!
The Bottom Line
Balancing your social media content doesn’t have to be complicated. The 50/30/20 rule is your roadmap to creating a strategy that adds value, fosters engagement, and promotes your brand without overwhelming your community. Keep it simple, stay consistent, and you’ll see the difference in your social media game. Ready to make your content work for you? Start implementing this rule today and watch your community (and your business) thrive.
Ready to take your social media strategy to the next level? Get in touch with us
