How GIFs Can Help You Capture More Leads on Facebook

Since their introduction to the Internet back in the 1980s, GIFs (pronounced “gif” or “jif” depending on who you ask) have only continued to grow in popularity. These continuously looping animated images are typically quite short and repetitive, having a profound effect on a viewer.

Facebook began accepting GIF posts back in 2015. From that time, the network states that more than five million of these animations are being sent through Facebook Messenger on a daily basis.

So why are we so attracted to GIFs in the first place?

Why We Love GIFs

Apart from being fun and entertaining, GIFs are a welcomed addition to many Facebook marketing strategies for a variety of reasons, including:

• They’re easy to consume. One quick glance and your audience understands your message.
• They have personality. GIFs are expressive and evoke emotion, making them more memorable.
• They share your company’s culture. Using a GIF is a fun way to connect with audiences and tell them what you’re about.
• They’re free! Unlike Facebook Ads, it’s free to post a GIF to your company Facebook page and in Messenger!

How GIFs Can Be Used as a Lead Capturing Tool on Facebook

GIFs are attractive, eye-catching and engaging. When used correctly, they receive a lot of comments, “Likes” and “Shares,” and they have the potential of going viral!

Here are some ways you can use GIFs on Facebook to capture more leads:

1. Tell a Story

Quickly tell the tale behind your brand with a GIF! Alternatively, you can show off moving images of past projects and you can turn testimonials into a GIF.

2. Explain a Process

Many leads would rather receive short snippets of how-to information rather than commit to watching scrolling through a 10-minute long video. Take advantage of this and create GIFs for how-to’s, step-by-step content, or in any situation where you are helping a viewer along with a process.

3. Display a Product

Another great way to use GIFs is to use them to give audiences a closer look at your product. GIFs are an opportunity to provide greater detail and motion to viewers, making it easier for you to draw in and capture leads with your products and services.

4. Show Off an Offer

Want to tell the world about a great deal or promotion you have going on? Consider transforming it into a GIF! Being as irresistible as they are, you’re sure to attract more eyes (and more Shares) posting a GIF-format promo on Facebook.

5. Give a Sneak Peek

Sneak peeks are a great way to hook audiences. Whether it’s a glimpse into a project, an upcoming product or any other type of big announcement, GIFs are a great way to tease and engage audiences.

6. To Say “Thank You”

Using GIFs to say “thank you” is a great way to build your reputation online. Customers love to feel appreciated, and audiences who aren’t yet a customer enjoy them almost just as much. Saying “thank you” leaves a positive impression upon Facebook users and makes you a company they want to do business with.

A Quick Word of Caution

Unless the content you’re using for your GIFs is your own, be cautious when using other peoples’ GIFs online. Otherwise, you run the risk of sharing copyrighted work.