By the time you read this, the information in this blog might already be outdated. That is the nature of social media. Just when you think you have the hang of it and you’re getting great engagement, something changes and you need to relearn how to do it.
For some, social media might feel like a never-ending uphill battle, and there’s a reason why it feels this way. Things are always changing in the background, while you think it’s business as usual.
Take Instagram: In 2021, it introduced features for smaller accounts such as adding a link in a story or the ‘add yours’ feature (a brilliant tool to get non-followers to view your story). Instagram also began testing a 60-second story option. Did you know that? So much was going on within Instagram HQ, and that’s just one platform.
The point is …
You have to stay up to date on platform changes. You may be thinking, what’s the big deal? Fair enough, but imagine this:
It took you three months to notice the new “link on stories” feature. Within that time, how many visitors could have clicked through to your website? Or better yet, gone straight to an add-to-cart page?
But fear not, I’m here to help you
So here’s what I suggest you do. Interact with people that closely follow changes to platforms. You’ll know who these people are when you see them. Being on these platforms provides their livelihoods, so they’re definitely paying close attention to changes. I really like Jade Beason’s Instagram tips, she’s an Instagram guru and she’s very active. So let other people do the heavy lifting for you.
Keep an eye on user behaviour
Lockdowns have changed online behaviour and sparked new trends like audio social, the growth of e-commerce and the emergence of the digital metaverse. There’s also an increase in working from home and the migration to hybrid work models – which will also impact broader digital connectivity. In social media, and especially the major platforms, all of these elements will play a role in what comes next.
Facebook is losing touch with younger audiences but is paying more attention to e-commerce capabilities – a good thing for your brand. Shopping in-stream has since become a key element of the platform.
In 2022, Facebook will expand its shoppable posts, streamline payment processes (possibly through the development of Facebook Pay and its own digital currency, Diem), and improve product discovery and in-stream product alerts. Imagine paying for items without having to leave the app?
In my opinion, Facebook needs to pay more attention to its security since the platform has experienced several data breaches. Otherwise, how can you convince people to share their personal information on the app to make purchases?
Should you embrace short-form videos?
The short answer is yes. With studies showing that 82% of all online content will be video content by 2022, savvy brands will likely use this kind of content to keep people coming back for timely and relevant information in the future. Keep it short, sweet and snappy.
Find someone willing to represent your brand if you’re shy. Simply posting on social media platforms isn’t enough. You need to show face and be social. When it comes to social media, a faceless brand may as well not even show up.
Feeling slightly overwhelmed?
Remember when I said let other people do the heavy lifting for you? The best way to keep up with social media trends is to use a reliable marketing agency. Let League lift up your social vibe.
We have a team of copywriters, designers, consultants and community managers all here to back your brand up. Let's work together.
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