Welcome to the world of social media, where trends emerge, algorithms shift, and creators navigate the digital currents to stay relevant. As we step into 2024, let’s ride the wave of the latest social media trends, exploring how social media users can keep audiences engaged in a time of potential online-fatigue!
1. Text-Only Posts: The Unsung Heroes of 2023
Text-only posts have quietly taken the spotlight, proving that it’s not always all about video on social media. While the tides at X may have stirred uncertainty, other text-based apps seized the opportunity to shine. Mastodon, Bluesky Social, and Meta’s Threads app have all made waves, with Threads skyrocketing to 44 million daily active users in record time. However, Twitter, or X, remains the reigning champion with a user base exceeding 540 million. The lesson here? The hunger for text-based content is real, and it’s not limited to specific platforms.
To-Do List:
- Secure your usernames on emerging text-based platforms.
- Repurpose text-only content across platforms for broader visibility.
- Fine-tune your X marketing strategy while keeping an eye on evolving user preferences.
2. Social Platforms as Search Engines: Google, Who?
Social media platforms are not just spaces for scrolling; they are becoming the hottest new search engines. TikTok, in particular, integrates Google search results and introduces robust search tools. Gen Z, in their quest for product information, increasingly turns to social media platforms over traditional search engines.
To-Do List:
- Embrace social SEO and keyword research in content calendars.
- Create content addressing common questions in your niche.
- Incorporate social SEO into your strategy, focusing on search intent and engagement.
3. Longer Videos Make a Comeback
In a world dominated by short-form videos, longer videos are set to make a comeback. Platforms like Instagram Reels and TikTok are extending their maximum video lengths, catering to users who seek in-depth answers. User behavior is evolving, and social media is becoming a hub for informative, entertaining, and longer content.
To-Do List:
- Experiment with two- to three-minute Instagram Reels and TikToks.
- Focus on evergreen video content that answers audience questions.
- Include timestamps in longer videos for easy navigation.
4. Engagement Shifts: From Feeds to DMs
As social media feeds become increasingly crowded, organic, uncurated posts from friends and family are finding a new home in DMs. Instagram’s Adam Mosseri highlights the shift toward stories and DMs, making direct engagement the preferred communication method. Brands must adapt, realizing that DMs are not only for personal conversations but also for customer service.
To-Do List:
- Encourage audience engagement through DMs.
- Equip your social team for efficient customer service in DMs.
- Set up automated responses for common questions.
5. Shares Trump Likes, Comments, and Followers
In the quest for engagement, shares emerge as the gold standard. While likes, comments, and followers can be manipulated, shares represent genuine value. Platforms like Instagram, TikTok, and X are emphasizing share counts, acknowledging their significance.
To-Do List:
- Analyze past successful content to understand what resonates.
- Design content with shareability in mind.
- Leverage share counts as a key metric in evaluating content performance.
As creators and brands navigate the inevitable changes to come throughout 2024, staying attuned to these trends is not just beneficial—it’s essential. Embrace the shifts, experiment with new formats, and keep your audience engaged. In the dynamic world of social media, adaptation is the key to sustained success. Happy posting!
Categories:
Social Media, Social Trends
