How to Create Social Media Creatives in PowerPoint

In this article, we’re going to look at how you can create social media posts using a tool that you already have, PowerPoint! You may be surprised to know this, but you can design anything you want on PowerPoint. And since it comes pre-installed on most computers these days, and not to mention the fact that it is easy to learn, most people design social media posters, newsletters, flyers, etc. on PowerPoint itself.

We’re going to take a look at some tips to keep in mind when you design social media posts on PowerPoint. But first, take a look at this video we’ve posted on our YouTube account:

Before you start designing your social media post on PowerPoint, make sure you know your audience. Take some time to understand your target audience. Who are they and what are their interests, preferences and pain points? I know this is generic advice, but knowing your audience will help you create a poster that truly resonates with them. 

Another thing you need to keep in mind is that you should have a clear objective for the social media post. Is it a promotional post? Are you supposed to educate, entertain or inspire? Knowing your goal and letting it guide your design choices can help you create better social media posts in general. 

Create your Canvas

When you open PowerPoint, the first thing you might want to do is to change the slide size to the size of your desired social media post. To do this, go to the Design Tab.

And click on Slide Size.

Next, click on Custom Slide Size and click on the size you want to use. You can also use the Width and Height boxes to select custom sizes. Click on OK when you’re done.

For example, if you’re creating a regular Instagram post, set the height and width as the maximum, 14.24 cm.

Start with a Background

Next up, select a background color by going to the Design tab and clicking on Format Background. Make sure you choose a color that aligns with your branding. Also keep in mind that the color you choose for the background should have sufficient contrast from the color of the text appearing on it, for optimal readability.

Adding Design Elements

You can now go to the Insert tab, and here you will find many options to insert images, shapes, icons, SmartArt, and so much more. PowerPoint also gives you an in-built image search option. You can use the shapes in PowerPoint to design elements of your social media poster. You can also combine or subtract different objects in PowerPoint to make unique and interesting shapes for your social media post. 

Adding Text

In the same tab, you can also add Text Boxes to add your text content onto your post. Experiment with font colors, size and other formatting options available on PowerPoint to add text that is legible, and attention grabbing. Be sure you choose an optimal font size; it should not be too small or too big.  

Also, never make your social media posts text heavy. Keep your text concise and use bullet points wherever you can. Feel free to experiment with fonts to create unique and interesting designs. 

Finally, do not forget to add a CTA if your social media post needs it. When you’re done, do a final proofreading and revision.  

Export

Once you’re done designing the social media post on PowerPoint, you need to export it as an image file. PNG or JPEG works fine. Export your designed slide by going to File, and clicking on Export, and finally selecting Change File Type. Here you will get the option to export your design as an image file. Once this is done, simply post the image onto social media and you’re done!

If you’re not looking to spend all this time designing social media posts on PowerPoint from scratch, you can also use pre-designed templates for PowerPoint. These templates can be tweaked easily to resemble social media posts, and with a little editing they will be post-worthy. Check out such templates on SlideBazaar.com 

To conclude, no you do not have to get another app or software to design social media posts. You can design them all on the app you currently have, PowerPoint. Once you get the hang of it, it is much easier than it seems. So why don’t you try it out today?