If you’re sharing affiliate links, you already know that not all content performs equally. Some posts drive clicks and commissions, while others… not so much.
That’s where shoppable content—content designed with the clear goal of converting your audience into buyers—comes in.
In this Mavely University training, Creator Education Manager Shauna Hollinger breaks down the difference between regular and converting content, the anatomy of a high-performing caption, and how to create shoppable content that aligns with your audience’s needs and drives affiliate income.
What Is Shoppable Content?
Shoppable content is strategically created with monetization in mind. It highlights products your audience can buy through your affiliate links and includes clear calls to action (CTAs) that guide them exactly where to click.
Shoppable content:
- Features products that link directly to where your audience can purchase
- Includes specific, action-oriented captions
- Speaks to your audience’s interests, needs, and buying behaviors
Non-shoppable content, on the other hand, is designed purely for engagement or entertainment, which is great for brand awareness, but not ideal for driving sales.
The Anatomy of a High-Converting Caption
A strong caption goes beyond describing a product to connect, inform, and convert.
Here’s what to include:
- A scroll-stopping hook. Speak directly to your audience’s needs or pain points.
- A clear value statement. Explain why the product is worth their attention.
- A direct call to action. Tell them exactly what to do next (e.g., “Find it in my bio” or “Comment ‘jeans’ for the link”).
The goal of a high-converting caption is to make it effortless for followers to find and shop your affiliate links. Tools like LinkDM Pro and ManyChat can automate link delivery, helping you respond instantly when someone comments on your post.
Writing Value-Driven Captions
Not all captions are created equal. Take this example:
Weak: “These jeans are so cute and I love them.”
Strong: “These jeans are under $50, have zero back gap, and the perfect amount of stretch. I’m a size 10, and they fit true to size. They’re machine washable and don’t lose their shape.”
The difference? The strong version answers real shopper questions about fit, price, comfort, and durability before they even ask.
Your captions should educate, reassure, and inspire confidence in your recommendations.
Make It Easy to Shop
The best shoppable content removes friction. Use visuals and text overlays to call out important product features, like price, fit, or special offers, directly in your images or videos.
Example overlays:
- “Target BOGO: Towels & Hair Accessories — today only!”
- “Old Navy Chic Loungewear”
- “3 Cozy Fall Fits Under $30 (Mom of 3 Approved)”
These quick details give viewers context instantly and drive urgency with no caption reading required.
Be Educational
Educational content converts because it adds value beyond the sale. Teach your audience something they didn’t know about a product or brand.
You can do this by:
- Sharing sizing details, measurements, or material notes
- Comparing products or demonstrating care instructions
- Explaining how to use the item effectively
- Showing real-life transformations or before/after results
This applies to any niche, from fashion to home, wellness, or beauty. The key is anticipating questions and answering them before your audience clicks “shop.”
How Often to Post Shoppable Content
Consistency matters. The Mavely creators who earn the most post shoppable content across their feeds, Stories, and Facebook groups daily — often multiple times per day.
If that’s not realistic for you right now, start with three to five shoppable posts per week and build up from there.
Know Your Target Audience
You can’t create converting content without knowing who you’re creating it for.
Ask yourself:
- What problems are they trying to solve?
- What motivates them to buy?
- What price range do they typically shop in?
For example, if your followers love home décor but are budget-conscious, focus on affordable pieces that look designer. Understanding your audience’s needs ensures the products you share actually resonate and convert.
Content Ideas That Convert
Need inspiration? Here are a few top-performing types of shoppable content from Mavely creators:
- Themed collections (like holiday gift guides)
- How-to guides and tutorials
- Educational product breakdowns
- Product reviews and comparisons
- Affiliate link roundups
- Unboxing videos or live shopping sessions
- Lifestyle integration content showing products in use
- Before-and-after transformations
Each type allows you to combine storytelling, value, and sales in one seamless piece of content.
Final Thoughts + Next Steps
To start creating content that converts:
- Understand the difference between shoppable and non-shoppable content
- Write captions with value-driven details and clear CTAs
- Share consistently
- Know your audience and tailor your recommendations accordingly
- Test out new content formats that showcase your products in action
Start by implementing one new strategy this week — and see how it impacts your clicks and commissions.
Start Creating Content that Converts Today!
By implementing some of the strategies in this video, as well as brainstorming shoppable content ideas for your specific audience, you can begin crafting content that grows your creator business and drives more sales. Through strategic content creation and sharing, you’ll not only increase your earnings but also build a loyal and engaged audience. Check out more Mavely University tips from our staff instructors to keep growing as an influencer. Still not using Mavely? Join today to start earning!
