Social media might be an established marketing tool, but it’s changing all the time. The top channels, most used features and best practice are constantly shifting.
Here’s what you need to know about two of the biggest new social media trends this year – live video and messaging apps – and how your business could take advantage.
Live video
Thanks in part to faster mobile internet speeds and better camera phones, live video has really taken off in the last few months. Now anyone with a smart phone and internet signal can broadcast live through Twitter’s Periscope app and Facebook Live.
How does it work?
Periscope is a standalone app that allows you to broadcast live video from your Twitter account via your phone.
Facebook Live is similar but built into the Facebook app. To broadcast you simply pick the live option when posting a new status from your phone.
How can businesses use live video?
Both Periscope and Facebook Live are easy to use and offer a new way to share your expertise and reach new audiences. Try them out for:
- Broadcasting from events
- Behind the scenes in your business
- Current weather or conditions at your location
- Live Q&As
- Interviews
Messaging apps
Online messaging apps are also huge news. Snapchat is one of the fastest growing social messaging apps and Facebook Messenger already has over 800 million users.
How does it work?
Businesses can use Snapchat to share picture and video messages with individuals or groups of contacts.
You may already be familiar with Facebook messenger as an individual user, but Facebook have recently updated the app to include many more features for businesses, including customer service tools, customisation options and even bots to communicate on your behalf!
How can businesses use messaging apps?
Businesses can create Snapchat stories to share everything from behind the scenes footage to competitions.
Meanwhile, Facebook messenger can be used for customer service and even taking bookings. The new features allow businesses to interact with existing customers through messenger, and even add a messenger button to their website.
Should your business get involved?
Live video and messaging isn’t for all businesses. It all depends on who you’re trying to reach and what goals you’re working towards. Download our FREE ebook to find out how to develop a marketing plan for your business.
