Have you noticed the recent changes to your social media? Notice the new “Stories” button on your Facebook? Social Media platforms are now increasingly competitive in keeping their users interested by diversifying, and here are some trends you should look out for so your business stays ahead of the curve!
1, More Social Features on Platforms
You might have seen some Facebook Stories already, but if not, they are short user-generated photo and video collections that can be viewed up to two times and disappear after 24 hours. Facebook is trying to be more like Snapchat and Instagram Stories in that sense. Likewise, YouTube is testing and rolling out the Community tab, which allows creators to post Facebook like feeds. Platforms are all trying to become like one another, to be the one-stop-shop for users who ‘live in the moment’ and constantly crave short, digestible, content.
2, Paid Content to Stay in the Game
According to Facebook, an average person’s feed nowadays can contain from 1,500 to 15,000 posts! Relying on only organic reach is no longer feasible in a world of information overload. Think about how your post will get through all the clutter and reach your audience? Without Paid Content, the chances are pretty slim.
As Feeds become overwhelmed with images, videos, and messages, social media platforms use special algorithms that limit the percentage of your followers that sees your posts. You might feel ‘why should I pay when I can post for free?’ – Paid content not only gets your posts seen, but when targeted well it is a worthwhile investment which can help you track insights about your audience and your ROI. If you haven’t yet started advertising on social media, now is the time to start!
3, Mobile Optimisation
It is becoming increasingly important to optimise for mobile devices, as users are spending more and more time on social media via their phones or tablets. Mobile traffic has now surpassed the more traditional desktop computer, and Google will be moving towards a mobile-first web index. This means that any content you post or share on social media and websites should not only be fully optimised for mobile devices, but also be created to maximise a mobile experience – think about how it would look on a mobile phone screen? Is it an enjoyable experience?
4, Live Stream Videos
Facebook has introduced Live Streaming since last year, and Instagram Stories now have Live Video. Videos have always generated higher engagement, and as social media platforms battles to keep their users online, rolling out the Live Video feature is just the next logical step. How can your business make use of Live Video you may ask? For example, if you are running a promotion, or sponsoring an event, you can post Live Updates. Perhaps you are drawing the winner from a competition, broadcast it real-time!
Your live video will remain on your Facebook feed afterwards, or on Instagram Stories you can choose to let it disappear after your broadcast. This is great for special promotions (which encourages users to act now before it disappears), make a big announcement, or product launch to engage your audience in the moment. What’s more, Facebook and Instagram prioritise real-time videos so your reach will also increase going live.
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And then of course there is the growing trend of professionals connecting on the LinkedIn network. The potential of LinkedIn in reaching your audience especially for B2B is an article within itself which we will explore at another time.
Need some help with your Social Media marketing? Want to try out advertising but not sure where to start, or needing your website and content optimised for mobile devices? Concept Designs and Marketing can help! We have a team of Social Media experts who can guide you in the new trends and help your business stay ahead.
Give us a call today!
