The 1/3 Social Media Rule

If you know me, then by now you’ll know that I’m a firm believer in using a content calendar, and I schedule out my social media EVERY DAY except for weekends. It’s time-consuming but definitely worth it.

However, social media shouldn’t only be about promoting just yourself; you should focus on creating a well-rounded strategy that will engage your audience and help it grow. To do this, I suggest to my clients that they follow something known as the 1/3 social media rule, which means that 1/3 of your content should be conversation, 1/3 should be content sharing, and 1/3 should be promotion.

Conversation
One of the most important things you need to focus on when it comes to social media is engaging your audience and encouraging conversation. It’s actually really easy to do – two ways I do that are by asking questions and sharing quotes. Ask questions to your followers about what their goals are, what they’ve accomplished, what podcasts they’re listening to, etc. I share quotes by making branded photos to use on social media, and I always make sure to choose quotes that other people can relate to.

Content sharing
If you find a great article, course, etc., share it! I have an ongoing list of articles I’ve read that I love so that when I make my content calendar, I can easily go back and find content to share. I add to the list as I go, which makes things really easy. Sharing other people’s content is also an easy way to build relationships.

Promotion
The last part of your strategy is obviously promoting yourself. Focus more on using your products, services, blog posts, etc. to form relationships and focus less on using them to make sales. Always show your audience the VALUE they will get by looking at what you have to offer.

The 1/3 rule is actually super easy to follow – and if anything, I usually include more conversations and content sharing versus promotion. The main goal of social media is to build relationships, NOT get sales, so make sure you remember that as you revise your strategy. Do you use the 1/3 social media rule?

15 Comments

  • This is a great rule, and one I guess I’ve subconsciously followed over the years. I think conversation and building relationships is the best way to improve a social media account, because that way you are gaining followers who truly care about what you post and you also find people to follow with content you enjoy!
    – katrina // <a href=http://yourstrulykatrina.com>Yours Truly, Katrina</a>

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  • I do use this! I am always sharing others content and my own. I need to better about conversation on my social media channels though.

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  • I try to but need to use this more! I love the idea of it and i really think it can help grow your social media!

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  • loveeee your idea of 1/3 regarding content! keeps things fresh and interesting. i think i’ve been doing it without fully realizing so yay, haha.
    XO. / easilyinspired-blog.com

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  • This is such a great rule! I’m trying to work out some kinks in my method still but I do believe in this!

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  • I have actually never heard of this rule but it is pure genius! It also seems like im on the right track so that is really reassuring.

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  • “Great explanation of the 1/3 rule! Balancing content between promotion, engagement, and education really helps keep followers interested and builds trust. This approach makes social media feel more authentic and less like constant advertising. Thanks for the useful insights!”

    Reply

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