10+ prompts to keep your feed active and relevant
Introduction
You know your publication needs to be on social media but some days, the blank “What’s on your mind?” box feels impossible to fill. What should you post? Will anyone care? Will it even help?
Good news: You don’t need to be a full-time content creator to run a great social media feed. You just need a list of ideas that are proven to work especially for local publications.
In this article, we’re giving you 10+ copy-paste post prompts you can start using immediately to fill your feed, build engagement, and keep your brand top of mind.
Why Social Media Matters for Local Publishers
Social platforms like Facebook and Instagram aren’t just for selfies and memes. They’re where your readers, advertisers, and community leaders are spending time.
Posting regularly helps you:
- Stay visible to advertisers
- Promote upcoming issues or events
- Drive traffic to digital editions
- Build credibility as a modern, engaged publication
1. Advertiser Spotlights
Example Post:
“We’re proud to feature @GinasBakery in this month’s issue! They’ve been serving up fresh pastries in downtown since 1997. Grab a croissant and tell them we sent you! 🥐”
Why it works:
- Celebrates your advertisers
- Increases their loyalty
- Gets them to reshare (more reach for you)
2. Throwback Thursdays (TBT)
Example Post:
“TBT to our June 2004 cover featuring the opening of Riverfront Park! Who remembers this?”
Why it works:
- Engages long-time readers
- Encourages comments and stories
- Easy to do if you have archives
3. Behind-the-Scenes
Example Post:
“Our editor-in-chief flipping through final layouts for next month’s issue 👀 Any guesses on the cover story?”
Why it works:
- Humanizes your brand
- Builds anticipation for upcoming issues
4. Reader Polls or Questions
Example Post:
“What’s your favorite local coffee shop? We’re doing a caffeine crawl next month and want your votes! ☕”
Why it works:
- Boosts engagement
- Gets you free crowd-sourced ideas
5. Community Event Promotion
Example Post:
“Looking for weekend plans? Check out the Art Walk this Saturday from 4–9pm on Main Street. We’ll be there with copies of the latest issue!”
Why it works:
- Shows your finger is on the pulse
- Helps local orgs (goodwill)
- Drives foot traffic to your booth or table
6. Issue Launch Announcements
Example Post:
“Our July Issue is LIVE 🎉 Read it online or grab a copy at any of these 14 locations!”
Why it works:
- Promotes new content
- Gives you a regular posting rhythm
- Drives traffic to print and digital editions
7. Quotes from Local Voices
Example Post:
“’This city gave me everything. Giving back is the easy part.’ – Marcus Hale, featured in this month’s profile series.”
Why it works:
- Inspires your audience
- Gives a human voice to your publication
- Easy to format into a shareable graphic
8. “Did You Know?” Facts
Example Post:
“Did you know our publication was originally started as a high school newsletter in 1991? Look how far we’ve come!”
Why it works:
- Builds brand story and history
- Encourages curiosity and pride
9. Submission Calls
Example Post:
“We’re looking for local artists, writers, and photographers to feature in our fall issue! DM us or email editor@workingnapkin.com to be considered.”
Why it works:
- Expands your contributor pool
- Increases community involvement
10. Testimonials or Reviews
Example Post:
“’Advertising with Working Napkin helped me connect with customers I never reached on Facebook. So worth it.’ – Tara from The Bike Barn 🚲”
Why it works:
- Builds trust with new advertisers
- Validates your platform’s results
📸 Image Suggestion: Quote graphic with customer headshot or shop photo and testimonial.
Bonus: Seasonal & Holiday Posts
Don’t forget to:
- Post 4th of July greetings
- Celebrate Small Business Saturday
- Highlight seasonal advertiser promotions
These keep your feed active even when there’s nothing “big” going on.
Final Thoughts
You don’t need a social media manager or fancy video production to stay relevant. All you need is a rotating library of post types and a system that helps you schedule them consistently.
Use these ideas to:
- Plan a month of content in 30 minutes
- Engage your audience without reinventing the wheel
- Look polished and professional even if you’re doing it solo
🔗 Want your social media managed for you? Let Working Napkin do the heavy lifting
