The ever-evolving landscape of social media demands constant adaptation. What may have been effective last year is now a relic of the past.
Let’s delve into three social media trends that have met their demise and explore alternative strategies for success.
DEAD TREND #1 - Lip Syncing & Pointing
Once a popular method to capture attention, the era of copycat content is gradually fading away.
When was the last time you stumbled upon a lip-syncing or pointing video that genuinely engaged you?
The decline in popularity is evident.
Today, the focus has shifted towards creating original, value-based content. Instead of relying on gimmicks, aim to teach, explain, or craft content that is tailored specifically to your target audience.
By offering something unique and valuable, you can establish a deeper connection with your followers. Instead of relying on lip-syncing and pointing videos, consider these alternative strategies:
- Educational Tutorials: Create informative and instructional videos that teach your audience a specific skill or provide valuable knowledge. For example, if you’re a makeup enthusiast, create tutorials showcasing different makeup techniques and product recommendations.
- Behind-the-Scenes Content: Offer glimpses into your creative process or provide exclusive behind-the-scenes footage. This could include showcasing the making of a piece of artwork, a sneak peek into a recipe development, or the creation of a DIY project.
- Storytelling and Personal Experiences: Share personal anecdotes or stories that resonate with your audience. These stories can be motivational, humorous, or inspiring, creating an emotional connection with your viewers.
DEAD TREND #2 - Celebrity Influencer Endorsements
Gone are the days when celebrities and mega-influencers dominated brand deals and social engagement. We are witnessing a significant surge in the influence of nano and micro influencers.
If you have a following ranging from 100 to 10,000 subscribers or followers, you have a tremendous opportunity before you.
Brands are now recognizing the potential of smaller influencers to forge genuine connections with niche audiences. These influencers are relatable and often highly engaged with their followers.
By harnessing the power of your modest (but highly targeted) following, you can offer a more authentic and targeted approach to brand collaborations.
To move away from celebrity endorsements and embrace nano and micro influencers, try these strategies:
- Niche Collaborations: Seek collaborations with influencers who have a dedicated following within a specific niche relevant to your brand. For example, if you’re a fitness brand, collaborate with a micro influencer who focuses on home workouts and has a loyal fitness-oriented audience.
- User-Generated Content Campaigns: Encourage your existing customers or followers to create content featuring your product or brand. This can include reviews, testimonials, or creative uses of your product. Share and promote this user-generated content to amplify the reach and authenticity of your brand.
- Influencer Takeovers: Allow nano and micro influencers to take over your social media accounts for a day or a specific campaign. This gives them exposure and allows your audience to connect with new voices and perspectives.
DEAD TREND #3 - Making Money Solely from View and Subscriber Count
In the past, creators relied heavily on their large follower numbers to secure brand deals and generate income. This precarious approach made earning a living from social media a nerve-racking experience.
Fortunately, creators are becoming more astute in their strategies. They have realized that there are far superior methods to leverage their influence and build a sustainable business around their online presence. Rather than relying solely on view and subscriber counts, creators are diversifying their revenue streams.
Building an email list, selling digital products, or becoming an affiliate are just a few examples of the alternative paths creators are pursuing. By exploring these avenues, creators can establish a more stable and self-sufficient business model, decoupled from the volatility of follower counts.
Instead of relying solely on view and subscriber counts, try out these alternate strategies (and split-test results):
- Affiliate Marketing: Partner with brands or products that align with your values and promote them to your audience through affiliate marketing. Earn a commission for each sale generated through your unique affiliate links.
- Digital Products and Services: Create and sell digital products, such as e-books, online courses, or virtual consultations. Leverage your expertise and offer valuable resources that cater to your audience’s needs.
- Email Marketing and Newsletter Subscriptions: Build an email list and focus on nurturing a loyal subscriber base. Offer exclusive content, discounts, or valuable insights to your subscribers to incentivize them to stay engaged and connected.
The importance of social media trends cannot be overstated. Adapting to the evolving landscape is crucial for staying relevant and maximizing your impact.
Keep an eye on emerging trends, experiment with new approaches, and most importantly, focus on providing value to your audience.
By doing so, you can navigate the ever-changing social media landscape with confidence and set yourself up for long-term success.
By implementing the alternate strategies included for each Dead Trend above, you can engage your audience on a deeper level, foster authenticity, and diversify your revenue streams beyond mere view and subscriber counts.
Remember to experiment, analyze the results, and adapt your approach based on the feedback and preferences of your audience.
