Maybe you’ve noticed that your social media performance has been a little…different this year. What performed last year seems to be a little stale. You’re caught in the dreaded 200 view jail and you have no idea how to get out? Good thing we’re here to help!
As you know the landscape of social media is ever-evolving and 2024 is no different. This year has ushered in a series of unexpected trends that have fundamentally altered how brands interact with their audiences. Authenticity has taken center stage, encouraging content strategies that emphasize genuine connection over polished presentation. Let's dive into these shifts and explore how they're setting a new standard for engagement.
Embracing Imperfection: The Raw Side of Copy and Screen Text
Gone are the days when flawless copy and meticulously edited on-screen texts ruled the digital domain. In a surprising turn, audiences now gravitate towards content that mirrors the imperfections of real life. This shift towards accepting, even celebrating, the raw and unfiltered aspects of communication has brought a refreshing sense of authenticity to the digital world where, if we’re honest, the past decade has felt pretty unrealistic and unattainable. Brands that dare to show their human side, complete with typos and informal language, are forging deeper connections with their followers which are encouraging emotional connection with their audience.
Telling The Founder's Tale
In an age where every brand story can be shared, the ones that resonate the most are those that include the good, the bad, and the ugly. In the same vein as embracing imperfection, audiences in 2024 crave to hear directly from founders and employees, yearning for stories encompassing the full spectrum of experiences — challenges, failures, and triumphs. This trend signifies a shift from faceless corporate messaging to a more personal and relatable narrative style. The best part about this trend? It’s such a low lift. Today’s audience is really craving more screen time with you and the people who make your brand run on a daily basis.
The Rise of De-Influencing
Perhaps one of the most intriguing trends of the year is 'de-influencing'. In stark contrast to the influencer boom of 2020 and 2021, de-influencing encourages audiences to question their purchasing decisions and to resist the constant barrage of product endorsements. This movement champions the idea of making more mindful, authentic choices rather than falling victim to the persuasive power of influencer marketing.
Stories>Sales
2024 has also seen content take a hard-left turn from direct sales tactics to storytelling. Brands are now leveraging the art of narrative to engage their audience, weaving their products and services into stories that entertain, inform, and connect on a deeper level. This approach not only captivates the audience's attention but also builds a lasting relationship that makes sure the audience knows that they’re more than just a transaction.
The Return of the Hashtag on Facebook
In an unexpected revival, hashtags have made a return to Facebook, proving their enduring value in enhancing discoverability and fostering community engagement. This return demonstrates the timeless importance of hashtags in categorizing content, connecting like-minded individuals, and sparking conversations in audiences within the digital space.
Keeping It Simple: The Shift Towards Text-Based Images
We can all agree that our timelines can become saturated with visually stunning content. While nice, there's a growing appreciation for the simplicity and directness of text-based images. This minimalist approach stands out for its ability to convey messages succinctly, proving that sometimes, less is more when it comes to impactful communication.
As we navigate 2024, these trends underscore a broader shift toward a more authentic experience on our social media platforms. Brands willing to adapt to these changes, embracing imperfection and prioritizing genuine connections, will definitely lead the way in forging meaningful relationships with their audiences.
Looking for a way to connect with your audience and let your brand’s story be heard? Betsy Bash is here to help. Connect with our CEO, Lauren, and let’s get you connected with an audience that’s dying to meet you.