Throughout 2017, businesses continued to turn to social media to reach audiences and build their brands. And while social media made great strides throughout 2017, the trends that took over last year will now have to adapt or make way for the next step in the evolution of social media.
For businesses that have yet to jump on the social media train, 2018 is the time to climb aboard. Not sure where to get started? Here are a few of the social media trends to watch in 2018:
Influencer marketing continues to rise
Social media provides an opportunity for brands to connect with their audiences like never before. Yet many organizations had trouble achieving the engagement they hoped for in 2017. That’s where influencer marketing has come to the rescue.
By partnering with social media influencers, brands not only reach new audiences, but build trust with existing followers and customers. With the success that so many brands achieved with influencer marketing last year, the practice is likely to take off in 2018.
Live streaming is the new video
2017 was the year video took over social media. But this year, regular video content will not be enough to compete on social networks. As a result, more brands will turn to live streaming to capture the attention of their followers.
New technology, from powerful smartphone cameras to the iPhone X’s augmented reality capabilities, will take live streaming to a new level.
Instagram Stories drive engagement
Instagram has become an increasingly popular social media platform, particularly with younger audiences. Instagram’s Story function competes with and outperforms Snapchat, making it a trend to watch in 2018.
At just over a year old, Instagram Stories will continue to evolve, offering more opportunities for brands to engage with their audience. Instagram Stories also support links, allowing brands to direct traffic directly to their websites.
Gen Z determines social media trends
While many organizations focus on attracting and engaging millennials, Generation Z (ages 22 and under) is particularly influenced by social media. Gen Z has grown up during the height of social media and doesn’t know a life without constant connection and 24/7 access to their favorite brands.
When putting together your social media strategy during the new year, don’t forget about this young but important audience. They are the consumers that will determine which social media trends really take off.
And finally, say goodbye to organic reach
In recent years, businesses’ organic reach on social media has been dwindling. Now, it may disappear entirely: Facebook plans to move non-promoted posts out of the News Feed, making organic reach nearly impossible. Soon, promoted posts may be the only way to reach your audience and potential followers. This year, it’s officially time to embrace paid social advertising.
But don’t fret too much. Organic reach is still alive and well on other social platforms, and Facebook advertising is one of the cheapest ad platforms currently available
Social media is an ever-evolving field, and in order to compete and effectively reach your audience, businesses need to keep up with the latest trends. Make social media a priority for your business in 2018.