1) CamelCase #HashTags

Capitalize the first letter of each word in hashtags so screen reader software can determine how to pronounce each word separately.

Fail: #socialmediatips
Pass: #SocialMediaTips

2) Twitter Links to Other Media Files

When you tweet a hyperlink to other media files, indicate whether the link leads to [AUDIO], [PIC], or [VIDEO]. This enables screen readers to announce the type of file that the user will discover when he/she clicks the link.

3) The Importance of Color Contrast in Your Social Media CTA Messages

Sufficient color contrast in your social media post call-to-action (CTA) messages helps users who are color blind, have low vision, or other visual issues to comprehend your CTA.

Colors used in the post must meet the WCAG 2.1 – 1.4.11 Non-text Contrast (Level AA) Guideline (text color against background color with a minimum color contrast of 4.5.1) so that folks with visual impairments can understand what to do.

Examples:

Message #1 on the left (light green #6cbf7e) has a failing contrast ratio of 2.29:1.

Message #2 in the middle (darker green #469156) has a passing contrast ratio of 3.86:1.

Message #3 on the right (even darker green #487651) has a passing contrast ratio of 5.27:1.

Use the free online Accessible Colors Tool to evaluate your color combination using the WCAG 2.1 guidelines for contrast accessibility.

If your combination does not meet the guidelines, the tool suggests the closest accessible combination by modifying the colors.

4) Don’t use decorative fonts in social media posts

Screen readers can be silent when “reading” those words and only announce what is written in native fonts.

5) Avoid using animated GIFs without a text equivalent

Using animated GIFs to push your message out on social media? Be aware that individuals who use screen readers most likely won’t be able to understand the message displayed in the animation, as there is limited or no accessibility support for animated GIFs on most social media platforms. Be sure that the post also includes text content equivalent that conveys the animated GIF message as well.

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