Have you ever spent time writing a caption for a post, hovered your finger over the “post” button, and then decided that it wasn’t good enough to post? I’ve been there several times myself! I often think I’ll come back to something later, but end up with a draft folder full of ideas that never ‘made the cut.’
But what about that “imperfect” moment, you ask? It’s exactly the kind of content your audience is craving right now.
While I don’t recommend flying by the seat of your pants 100% of the time, I do think that adding real moments to your static schedule, ESPECIALLY in the summer, gives your brand an authenticity boost with your audience and helps connect people with what you’re doing right now.
So, this summer, I challenge you to stop overthinking your posts and make a point to share a few insights, in real time.
What Real-Time Content Is
Real-time content is exactly what it sounds like. It’s content that is happening live. It usually doesn’t go through any filters, doesn’t have a long caption, and shows your audience the real, uncut you. If you give real-time content a try and like it, you can also schedule it ahead of time into your overall strategy. Schedule “Real-time Content” rather than coming up with something in advance if you know you will be attending a networking event, hosting an event, selling at a market, etc., so you can post on the fly while adhering to your overall strategy. And if you don’t have a plan (first, call me!) If that’s the case (and I’m here to help), then this is a great way to keep your feed full when you don’t have time to plan ahead.
Why Real-Time Content Is Effective
It appears genuine. Posting right now demonstrates your company’s human side. the parts of a polished social media feed that people typically don’t see. Whether you’re setting up a market table, chatting with customers, or even posting a story about your current office set-up, these all feel real and authentic.
And authentic content builds trust.
It invites engagement
You can make your audience feel like they are a part of your experience by posting live from your workplace, an event, or even your car as you go about your day. It sparks comments, replies and messages because it feels current.
Try adding
A poll sticker (“What would you grab from this table?”)
A caption that says, “If you’re nearby, pop in today!”
a query similar to “Should I restock these?” with a slider emoji
It creates FOMO
Real-time excitement is generated by content. When people see what they’re missing out on (think, limited product, a busy market, a sunny patio) they’re more likely to take action.
For businesses, it drives foot traffic. For service providers, it can encourage last-minute bookings.
Don’t be afraid to share urgency. You’re doing your audience a disservice if you don’t let them know when they’re about to miss out!
Simple Ways to Post in the Moment
You can start adding these kinds of posts to your feed without having a complicated strategy. merely a few minutes of your time and your phone!
Here are some easy ideas:
- Snap a photo of your setup before opening
- Create a Story as you enter an event or market.
- Film a 10-second morning routine (“Here’s how we open the doors!”)
- Give your table, display, or space a brief Story tour.
- Go live with a brief update or “What’s new this week” check-in for two to five minutes.
- On the fly, introduce a team member, vendor, or client. Real-time doesn’t mean fancy.
- It means present and open for business.
The question is, what content are you putting off “for later”? Once it’s perfect, edited, and with the polished caption, it’s probably not going to connect the same way as it would have when posted in real time.
So next time you hesitate, ask yourself:
- Would this help my audience feel closer to my business?
- Would it make someone stop scrolling?
- Would it spark a message, comment, or visit?
Post the answer if it is affirmative. Your audience is already interested in what you have to offer, they’re just waiting to be invited in!
