How to optimize your 2023 social media strategy
What can we expect the social media landscape to look like in 2023? And how can your brand or business get out ahead to maximize growth? Read on to learn our scoop on where to focus this year.
#1 Short-form video content reigns supreme
We can’t talk about social media trends without first talking about TikTok. What seemed like a fun novelty to be a part of during the shutdown in 2020 has become the fastest growing platform in social media history (according to Statista it took TikTok 5.1 years to attract 1 billion users).
Ogilvy’s “Social Media Trends 2023” report puts it perfectly:
“TikTok is THE trend. It’s no longer ‘just having a moment’. Six years in, the short-video app has leapfrogged competitors and cemented itself as the go-to platform for both users and brands.”
The report also talks about how TikTok has become a cultural linchpin that has managed to flip the topdown view on culture, enabling anyone to start trends.
With a focus on organic, short-form content first, TikTok continues to be a huge area of opportunity for brands and businesses to connect with their audiences.
#2 Authenticity holds center stage
Stay true to yourself! This trend is expected to continue from last year, with users preferring more raw and unpolished content that shows a brand’s authentic side.
In our digital world, it’s easy to spot an ad in under the time it takes to take a single breath! If your content fails to grab attention or if it comes off to “ad-like”, expect people to swipe away.
And unpolished doesn’t need to mean completely unprofessional! For some it can mean thinking outside the box to showcase a behind-the-scenes video or a team member speaking candidly about the brand or business.
#3 User-generated content (UGC) speaks volumes
Let your audience’s thoughts and reviews speak for themselves! A 2021 survey found that 81% of consumers use Google to evaluate local businesses before they visit them (Local Consumer Review Survey 2022, Brightlocal).
This is no surprise to us as we are big into googling a business before working with them! Review help to build trust and credibility before a potential customer even starts talking to you! UGC is also great because it leverages content that many of your customers may already be producing.
Consider leveling up with video testimonials from your customers in 2023 for a competitive edge! Here’s an example we received from a past client:
#4 Edutainment on the small screen
With more users turning to social media as a search engine, it’s a great time to implement edutainment as a way to explain and entertain at the same time. This content style is popular with Instagram Reels and TikTok and is a great way to nurture your audience and connect with potential new customers.
Here’s a great example of edutainment from the KS Media Co. TikTok!
While we can only guess how the year will unfold, adding these trends into your overall content strategy is likely to give you a competitive edge and keep your content current.
If you need help with your content strategy, reach out today to chat with us!