If you are running your online business in 2024, definitely know that social media isn’t a passive tool in your very active marketing strategy. In 2024 it is not enough to simply be present on digital platforms. To really stand out, you need to play the social media trends to your advantage.
Social media trends keep your content fresh and constantly engage your audience in new ways. So how do you boost your business using them? Let’s find out.
1. Short-form video is where your audience is at.
With the growing number of social media platforms, people’s attention spans are getting shorter and shorter. Users are also witnessing what we at Spinta would like to call the “TikTok-ification” of all social platforms.
The never-ending thread of short-video content is now a feature on every platform. Instagram reels, YouTube shorts, and, quite recently, LinkedIn. The analytics show that they are so much more effective than regular posts.
So if you are not thinking about leveraging short-form videos in your Social media strategy, you are missing out on all the potential to grow your brand.
Here’s how to win on these Social media trends..
- Keep your videos short (ideally less than a minute) but don’t compromise on the value you provide.
- Mix education about your industry, your brand, or your product with a dose of fun.
- Show off your products, give a quick tutorial, or share customer stories in less than 60 seconds.
- Don’t forget to experiment with the latest trending audio or effects; it’ll give your post a boost in visibility.
2. User-Generated Content – The Trust Factor
We live in an age where just a handful of bad reviews can bring down years and years of good business. In short, consumers trust other consumers. This makes User-Generated Content one of the most important social media trends you should never miss. Research from Wyzowl says, 39% of video marketers have created video testimonials, making this the most popular singular use case for video marketing in 2024.
If you want to build credibility, encourage your customers to create testimonials featuring your products. Keep it real and authentic. Do not make it sound like a sponsored ad. If you can nail it, UGC will be the best word-of-mouth marketing for your brand.
Here are a few quick tips,
- Host contests or challenges asking your followers to create posts with your brand.
- Reach out to micro-influencers within your niche. They’re often more engaged than large-scale influencers.
3. Social Commerce is the New Social Media Trend
Social media is no longer just for scrolling. With features such as Shoppable posts and stories, your followers can purchase your products without even leaving the app. If you are not selling on Facebook or Instagram directly, you are leaving money on the table.
So how do you leverage this social media trend for your brand?
- Let your customers buy directly from your Instagram & Facebook. Instead of your website. Make sure your posts and stories are shoppable.
- Build demand with curiosity-driving campaigns before your products go live on sale.
- Showcase your product on Instagram Live and give people a chance to ask questions.
- Don’t forget to set up an optimized social storefront.
4. Consumers want purpose-driven brands
Gen Z is rapidly seeping into every customer base. If your products are not for them, then they are buying them for your ideal user in their close circle. One of the huge aspects of brands this generation gravitates towards is Purpose.
In 2024, simply having a good product is clearly not enough. Your customers want to know that your business stands for something. It could be sustainability, social justice, or even community involvement.
We say this is not just another one of social media trends but a market shift towards a better future. So, here’s how you grow your purpose-driven brand.
- Communicate transparently about your values.
- Share how your company is contributing to the greater good. (consistently!)
- Run purpose-driven campaigns that align with your customer base.
- Remember, authenticity is the key. Don’t try to fake it. People can spot inauthenticity a mile away.
5. It is all about Community Building
The new social media trend in 2024 is “The sense of Belonging”. Facebook, Instagram, X (Twitter), and YouTube are no longer apps for leisure scrolling. Today, we see a shift from public social media interactions to more intimate community spaces such as Facebook Groups, Instagram Broadcast Channels, and Niche Forums. It is where people go to participate in bigger conversations. It is where people go to belong with communities. People have now discovered the impact of engaging with more like-minded individuals in smaller and more focused groups. So it is the job of brands to build and grow spaces for communities to belong.
So here’s how your business can win in community building.
- Create a space for your customers to come together, share experiences, and discuss your brand.
- Make it more engaging with exclusive content, product previews, and special offers to make your community members feel like VIPs.
- Engage with them in real-time when they are talking about your products or your industry.
- Use Social listening tools like Brandwatch and Hootsuite to always stay updated about what’s the current big elephant in your industry, and start new conversations on that.
- Don’t forget the golden rule. Keep it AUTHENTIC!
Conclusion
Today, Social media trends are all about Authenticity, Creativity, and Connection. Staying flexible and adaptable is the key for all businesses to grow on social media. Keep tabs on what’s trending and always align your brand values with your audience’s values and behaviour.
Remember, trends come and go. Real success lies in how you engage and connect with your audience. So, stay curious, stay bold, and most importantly, stay authentic!
Don’t know how to incorporate all of these trends into your business? No worries. At Spinta Digital, we are experts in boosting businesses like yours with social media marketing to drive, engagement, growth, and sales. We’ve got more than a decade of expertise in building authentic purpose-driven campaigns.
Ready to take your social media game to the next level? Let us help you make it happen. Contact us today!
FAQs
1. How often should I post short-form videos on social media?
Consistency is key. Aim to post short-form videos 2-3 times per week to maintain engagement without overwhelming your audience. Regular posting helps keep your content fresh and top of mind.
2. What are some effective ways to make my user-generated videos stand out?
Encourage creativity and authenticity by providing clear guidelines but allowing freedom. Highlight the best ones on your main social media channels and offer incentives i.e. discounts or features to motivate participation.
3. How can I measure the success of my social commerce efforts?
Track metrics such as click-through rates, conversion rates, and sales generated from shoppable posts. Use analytics tools provided by social platforms to assess performance and optimize your strategy based on these insights.
4. What should I do if my purpose-driven campaigns don’t seem to resonate with my audience?
Reevaluate your messaging and ensure it aligns with your audience’s values. Gather feedback through surveys or social media polls to understand their preferences and adjust your campaigns accordingly.
5. How can I create an engaging community space for my brand?
Foster engagement by regularly interacting with members, offering exclusive content, and organizing events or discussions that cater to their interests. Make sure the space feels welcoming and authentic to encourage active participation.
