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Top 10 Social Media Hooks for Historical and Genealogical Societies


Cell phone with one of the hooks being used.

In today's digital age, capturing the attention of social media users is a challenge, especially with the constant influx of content. For historical and genealogical societies, it's crucial to craft compelling hooks that resonate with the audience's curiosity about the past. Here are the top 10 social media hooks to make users stop scrolling and dive into your post:

  1. Mystery Photos: Share an old, unidentified photo and ask your audience to guess the era, location, or the story behind it. The allure of a mystery can be irresistible!

  2. This Day in History: Highlight significant events that occurred on the same date in the past. It's a great way to educate and engage your audience with bite-sized history lessons.

  3. Ancestor Spotlight: Share intriguing stories of individuals from the past. Whether it's a tale of triumph, love, or adversity, personal stories create a deep connection.

  4. DNA Discoveries: Discuss breakthroughs in DNA testing and how they've helped solve age-old family mysteries. The science of genealogy is fascinating to many!

  5. Historical "Did You Know?": Share lesser-known facts or debunk popular myths about historical events or figures. Everyone loves a surprising tidbit of knowledge.

  6. Interactive Polls: Pose questions related to historical preferences, like "Victorian Era vs. Roaring Twenties: Which would you prefer to live in?" Engaging your audience in a fun debate can boost interaction.

  7. Behind-the-Scenes: Give a sneak peek into your society's archives, research processes, or upcoming events. Showing the 'human' side of your society can build a stronger community.

  8. Testimonials: Share stories of individuals who've discovered incredible things about their lineage with your society's help. Real-life success stories can inspire others to embark on their own genealogical journey.

  9. Historical Challenges: Start a monthly challenge, like "Trace back to your great-great-grandparents" or "Find a war hero in your lineage." Challenges can motivate and provide a sense of accomplishment.

  10. Collaborations: Partner with historians, authors, or influencers for live sessions, interviews, or joint posts. Fresh perspectives can attract a wider audience.

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In the vast sea of social media content, historical and genealogical societies have a unique advantage. The past is filled with stories waiting to be told, and with the right hooks, you can captivate an audience eager to connect with their roots. Remember, it's all about creating content that resonates, educates, and engages. Happy posting!

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