Question: Are you going to read an article listing the average temperature around the world for the last one hundred years?
Probably not. But you would probably take the time to study a chart or images that presents that same information.
The world around us is driven by visual information and no matter your industry, you should be taking advantage of that. An infographic is a great way to leverage the appeal of visual learning. An infographic is a graphic representation of information, data or knowledge intended to present complex information quickly. If you haven’t jumped on the infographic train yet, here are some reasons to hop aboard.
Easier to Digest
On average, people are visual learners. They retain information presented to them visually rather than told to them or that they’ve read. This is probably because our brains are able to process images 60,000 times faster than text. So, it makes sense that infographics are reportedly 30 times more likely to be read than text.
Make the Boring, Interesting
Not all industries are exciting. But, it’s often the less interesting industries that offer the most valuable data. If you work in an industry that doesn’t get people racing to read your content, infographics can be a great way to present your information.
Tip: When choosing a topic to cover, be sure to choose a subject that doesn’t only relate to your business. Choose a universal topic that has a connection to your business. The information presented should benefit a wide range of people, not just a small niche. Provide information only you could provide while relating that information to a larger audience.
We’re Easily Distracted
Let’s face it; our attention spans just aren’t what they used to be. We’re easily pulled away from what we are reading or doing by a buzz from our phones, a flashy ad, or a shiny obj…squirrel! Oops, sorry.
According to research collected in 2016, the average attention span in 2015 was 8.25 seconds. That’s not very long. And it’s definitely not long enough to read an entire article or retain large amounts of data. It’s also less than a fish.
This means that your audience is probably scanning your content rather than reading it. An easily scannable image that presents important information quickly is the best way to ensure your audience is digesting your content.
Shareable
We don’t share articles or posts with a list of facts or numbers as long as our arms. We share things that intrigue us, that catch our attention, and that we think would intrigue others. And a highly shared piece of content can expand your reach and get you backlinks and exposure.
Reach New Networks
By sharing visual content, you can begin posting on networks you may not have been a part of in the past. You wouldn’t share information-heavy articles on Pinterest, but you can share visually appealing images. You can also jump on networks solely driven by images, like Instagram. By expanding to new networks, you’ll reach new demographics and possibly appeal to new audiences.
They’re Fun
Do you really need more of a reason?
If you have questions about how you can make infographics work for your business, shoot us a message!
