How Do I Create Engaging Content?

Let’s be honest — nothing’s more discouraging than putting time into a post and hearing... crickets.

No comments.
No DMs.
No traction.

Here’s the thing: engagement isn’t random — and it’s not about luck.

If you’re a small business owner in Windsor, Hamilton, Toronto, or Detroit trying to actually connect with your audience (not just show up), here’s how to create content people want to interact with.

First: What Makes Content “Engaging”?

Engaging content:

• Stops the scroll

• Makes someone feel seen, heard, or understood

• Invites interaction (even passively)

• Feels personal — even when it’s promotional

You don’t need flashy visuals or trending audio to engage people.
You need relevance and resonance.

1. Lead With a Strong Hook

The first sentence of your caption or the first 2 seconds of your video = everything.

Examples:

• “Most business owners get this completely backwards…”

• “Here’s the part no one talks about when it comes to ____.”

• “If you’ve ever felt like ____ — read this.”

In Windsor or Hamilton where your audience may scroll slower (or be less trend-focused), clarity > cleverness.

2. Speak to One Person — Not Everyone

The most engaging content feels like a private conversation, not a public announcement.

Use phrases like:

• “You know that feeling when…”

• “Here’s what I wish someone told me...”

• “If this sounds like you, keep reading.”

Your dream client will feel like you're reading their mind.

3. Use Visuals That Tell a Story

Even a basic photo can be engaging when paired with:

• A personal caption

• A scroll-stopping title

• A clear emotion or moment

Not every post needs to be a Reel or carousel — but it should give context or feeling.

4. Make It Easy to Interact

Want more engagement? Ask for it — clearly.

Try:

• “Double tap if you’ve felt this.”

• “Comment YES if this hit home.”

• “Tag someone who needs to hear this.”

• “Save this so you don’t forget.”

Especially in local markets like Windsor or Hamilton, simple CTAs = higher interaction.

5. Say Something That Matters

Engaging content doesn’t mean lightweight fluff.

Posts that perform well:

• Share a strong opinion

• Reframe a common belief

• Tell a personal or client story

• Call out something your audience is struggling with

Your content should do something — not just exist.

What We Help Our Clients Do at Buttered Branding

We help small businesses across Windsor, Toronto, Hamilton, and Detroit:

• Create content built to connect and convert

• Develop high-performing hook formats

• Build a system that rotates engaging formats (Reels, carousels, stories, etc.)

• Make content feel human — not robotic or overly polished

Because when your content sounds like you, the right people respond.

Ready to Create Content That Actually Engages (Not Just Sits There)?

Book a discovery call and we’ll help you build a custom content system that connects with your audience and drives real results — not just likes.