There’s one thing that remains a constant in the world of social media – and that thing is change! But why do social media trends shift so dramatically year after year?
New trends in social media will always appear, disappear, or morph into something completely different. This is mainly due to exciting technology advancements and changes in consumer behaviour.
Keeping up to date with current and predicted trends will keep you ahead of your competition. So, without further ado, allow me to share with you my predictions for social media content trends 2023.
1. Brand responsibility
Today’s consumers are looking for authentic brands that are run by actual people. They’re demanding brands to be transparent, ethical and care about their impact on society – and rightly so! It’s sad to say, but fraud does exist in social media. Some ‘brands’ may suddenly appear one day, secure lots of sales, and then disappear off the face of the earth leaving behind a lot of customers with no product and a stressful pay dispute on their hands!
Think of ways that you can showcase your human side that demonstrates that you can be trusted. Maybe publish the occasional post that tells your story, goes behind the scenes, or puts a spotlight on your team. I’m sure you can come up with lots of ideas based on what you get up to every day.
2. The need for privacy
Several reliable reports prove that today’s consumers are wanting more privacy and demanding that their online data stays secure.
Embed trust by introducing more private messaging functions, and reduce the need for lots of click throughs. Your customers will also enjoy real-time conversations with you and appreciate not being asked for their personal information early on in the relationship building stage. Explore ways that you can make your followers and connections feel safe.
3. Short lived ‘in the moment’ content.
Content that gives the viewer the impression that they are a fly on your wall is going to massively appeal this year. And what better way to do this than to use Instagram and Facebook stories or Snapchat.
4. Gamification
So many of us love playing interactive games on our phones that it makes complete sense to use this fun creative side in our social media posts.
Have a look at this video which explores ways to maximise your social media posts using gamification.
5. Video
Without a doubt, video will remain a firm favourite with your followers and connections. Short bite-size videos have always packed a punch and I believe that this will continue for some time.
A short video is anything from 15 seconds to 5 minutes, but I recommend filming for 1 minute maximum, you can then use it across all platforms as a Instagram/Facebook Reel, YouTube Short, Twitter video or TikTok! Remember, the algorithm “bots” will be checking to see the percentage of video watched, so the shorter the length the better to achieve a greater percentage visibility and reach.
TikTok is likely to lead the way, but never underestimate how successful YouTube Shorts are, or a reel on Facebook or Instagram.
6. Micro Influencers
Not to be mistaken for celebrity influencers with hundreds of thousands of followers. Micro influencers are niche brands that target their followers carefully. Micro influencers may only have a few thousand followers but they have a very engaged audience who they could show case your products/services to.
Be courageous and ask them to promote your product or service through their social media platforms. If its relevant and will be of value to their followers, fingers crossed they say yes.
7. Shoppable posts
Now you can create posts with shoppable links on Facebook, Instagram, TikTok and LinkedIn, meaning that your followers can buy straight from the post and not have to leave the social media platform. This is amazing for physical products as you’ll get a good return for your effort! It also avoids the need to pop your website link into the post which never goes down well with the all-seeing algorithm bots.
8. Artificial intelligence
ChatGPT has taken the world by storm. There have been other AI content generators, but this one is far superior. If you haven’t tried it, you really should.
Simply head to the website and ask it to produce content for you. For example, tell it that you want to write a Tweet about a specific topic that will resonate with a certain type of customer. You may have to adapt the content it produces to suit your personality and to personalise it to your service or product, but it will definitely form a solid foundation for you to work from.
But remember, social media is social! It’s not all about posting and running – it’s about building communities. 50% of your social media strategy is the posting of content, the other 50% is about engagement. Only with engagement can you be truly authentic and build trust. Make sure to take an interest in what others are posting too.
Are you ready to try these trends?
To maximise your impact on social media come and join The Social Flock! You’ll become a valued member of an inspiring and supportive community where everyone has one thing in common – a desire to grow their business with social media. This exclusive group provides accountability, social media content tips, advice and access to industry experts, and a calendar full of events.
As ever, if you have any questions, get in touch. I’m here to help you succeed with social media!
Bye for now,
Becs
