It’s no secret that the world of social media is constantly changing around us. After Nerf announced a vacant position with their company for a TikTok Officer, we can’t help but set our expectations high for what the future role of marketers could look like.
So although we’re not encouraging you to hire a TikTok Officer (yet), we’ve done our best to compile a list of our top social channels that you should be implementing into your digital strategy in 2021.
1. TikTok
We’ve said it once and we’ll say it again. TikTok would have to be our favourite social platform of 2021. From the catchy, short and unique video content to the platforms ability to capture an audience under the age of 24. Still hesitant about jumping on the band wagon? We were too. Our one piece of advice, TikTok has an average screen time of 52 minutes for a reason. If you’ve got time to waste (or to enjoy) go right ahead.
Not only does the TikTok algorithm advantage aspiring content creators, the platform itself offers plenty of opportunities for marketers attempting to target a younger demographic. Yes, you may still find yourself stumbling across TikTok dances & naughties trends you’ll find yourself cringing at – however, there are plenty of creative trends that can inspire unique brand related content.
When it comes to using TikTok for marketing purposes, there are plenty of opportunities for brands to jump at. Whether you’d like to explore in-feed advertisements, influencer partnerships or if you’d simply like to raise brand awareness by gaining a following, you’ve come to the right place.
Here’s an example of some brand content that we’ve been loving on TikTok recently. Shoutout to the team at Waldecks Garden Centre.
@waldecksgardencentres It’s almost the big day 🥰💖💘✨##planttok ##fyp ##valentines ##houseplants ##plantaddict ##planttiktok
♬ You give me butterflies - 🤠🤠
2. Clubhouse
Clubhouse is a relatively new social platform that allows users to tune in to audio-based chatrooms. If you’re one to shy away from public speaking or phone calls, it’s safe to say this app may not be for you. Operating purely on iOS with an exclusive invite-only access policy, Clubhouse streams live, public chatrooms on every topic you could possibly think of. Want a live psychic reading? Yes, they’ve got that covered.
So how can a new platform like Clubhouse be used for marketers? To tell you the truth, alike to many others, we’re still sussing this one out for ourselves. At the time being, Clubhouse presents an interesting opportunity for those looking to grow a following and raise their brand profile. By engaging in and hosting chatrooms, users are more likely to flaunt their proficiency and build a following, positioning themselves as experts in their field. As Clubhouse doesn’t offer direct messaging, it’s highly common for presenters to direct listeners back to social channels like Instagram.
So, when would we recommend implementing Clubhouse into your digital strategy? If you’re not one to shy away from conversation and you’re looking to build your network or your brand, then this one’s for you. You might even stumble across Elon Musk, if you’re lucky.
3. LinkedIn
If you’re looking to engage in B2B marketing, you’ve come to the right place. LinkedIn is the ultimate social media platform that’s used by professionals all over the world. Yes, LinkedIn may be tad pretentious at times, but the opportunities it offers are worth it.
LinkedIn marketing allows your business to connect and engage with others in the industry, establish strategic relationships, build credibility and highlight the core services you offer. One aspect of LinkedIn marketing that we appreciate the most, is its ability to target users based on their industry, job title or even their company name.
Better yet, if you’re a business profile you’ll be given plenty of opportunities to flaunt your expertise on trending topics related to your services.
4. Instagram
Since launching in 2010, Instagram has completely dominated the world of social media. From general posts to stories and reels, Instagram has a world of potential when it comes to connecting with your dream audience. If you’d like to connect with your ideal customers through location, demographic or interest-based targeting techniques, Instagram is the place for you.
So why should you include Instagram in your digital strategy? Let the facts speak for themselves. According to Instagram, over 87% of people say that influencers on Instagram have inspired them to make a purchase.
Not sure how you could leverage Instagram to build your business? Check out what Recess has done here. Bet you’d never expect to follow a sparkling water brand on IG, huh?
5. Facebook
As much as we love to hate Mr Zuckerberg, it’s hard to deny the value of a platform that’s used by over 2.7 billion people every day. With the scroll speed of millennials experiencing a 250% increase in recent years, if you’re gonna do it, do it right.
So why should Facebook be a crucial element of your digital strategy? Alike to Instagram, Facebook offers incredibly intelligent targeting solutions that allow you to pinpoint potential customers based on their location, demographic and interests. Looking to catch those pesky on-the-fence customers? Facebook’s got this handled with remarketing.
So, how have other businesses successfully used Facebook? Well, if you’re on Facebook it’s highly likely you’ve come across Tasty. Owned by BuzzFeed, Tasty creates short & catchy cooking videos that cut right to the chase. Over the years, Tasty has partnered with some huge brands including Maggi, Hershey’s and Frank’s Hot Sauce to grow their brand online.
6. YouTube
When you’re thinking about search engines what comes to mind? Google? Bing? Maybe DuckDuckGo? But did you know that YouTube is the second largest search engine on the Internet?
YouTube is too often disregarded by marketers, but if you’re ambitious and looking for a route that your competitors aren’t pursuing, this may be the platform for you. With more than 2 billion users worldwide and a key shift towards video content in marketing, there’s no harm in giving it a go.
So, who have we been loving on YouTube recently? Killing it on the content, as per usual, is big dogs Red Bull. However, if we’re thinking more realistically, we can’t help but admire the effort of Bunnings Warehouse. Looking to create a worm farm or not sure how to put a hook in the wall? We can relate. Check the Bunnings channel for everything you’ll ever need to know in the world of DIY’s.
Not sure where to Start?
With new, trendy social apps constantly emerging, there’s no denying that choosing the right channels can be a somewhat daunting process. If you’re looking for a team who’ll help you create winning strategies on social, get in contact with our #SocialExperts at Start Digital today on 1300 170 908.