Social Media Platforms

Global statistics show that there were 5.17 billion social media users worldwide, which is roughly 63.7%, by July 2024. This total includes multiple platforms, each of which targets different audiences, and can be used to implement different marketing strategies.

• Facebook Facebook is the world’s most popular platform with 3.27 billion active monthly users. Businesses of all sizes can benefit from creating pages for their business that automatically post content to Instagram. Instagram can also be used as an online shop. Facebook groups can also create a sense of community by allowing moderated or unmoderated discussions between people who share similar interests.
• (formerly known as Twitter), X is useful for businesses that want to share concise and real-time information, or engage with customers. The character-limited text platform recently underwent a rebranding. Some users have upgraded to X Premium. This is a subscription-based service that provides greater visibility. For help from a Social Media Mentor, visit https://curetonconsulting.co.uk/services/social-media-mentoring/
• TikTok While TikTok began as a platform for voiceover videos and silly content, it has quickly overtaken Instagram as a source of visual content. Many content creators find it easy to create monetised TikTok viral content that builds audience popularity and brand awareness. Many businesses who create TikToks also cross-post the videos on Instagram.
• Instagram Instagram is owned by Meta which also owns Facebook. Instagram is a platform for sharing visual content such as photos and videos of food, travel or lifestyle brands.
• LinkedIn Originally created to connect recruiters with hiring companies, LinkedIn is a platform that’s more business-oriented and professional. Many companies find success by advertising job openings on the platform, or creating newsletters to gain media attention.
• YouTube YouTube offers longer video content than the 30-second clips that TikTok or Instagram normally offer. Business owners can create password-protected content or public content. This is ideal for staff introductions, tours, tutorials and industry explainers.