Top 6 Social Media Trends in 2024

Now we’ve stepped into the promising year of 2024, it’s crucial to stay ahead of the curve and anticipate the trends that will dominate the social media space. Staying up to date with social media trends can help fuel your strategy and help you stand out from the crowd. From emerging technologies to shifting user behaviours, here's a comprehensive look at the social media trends that are set to redefine our digital experience in 2024.

Longer-form video content is making a comeback

Remember when TikTok was all about snappy, under-a-minute videos? Well, not anymore. In 2024, TikTok, the reigning king of short-form content, has surprisingly turned the tables, championing the resurgence of long-form content. You probably remember the switch in 2022 when TikTok expanded its video limit to a whopping 10 minutes, bidding adieu to those blink-and-miss clips. This has opened up a world of opportunity for creators to dive deeper into storytelling, share detailed narratives and create more immersive experiences for viewers.

Word on the street is that TikTok might further up the ante, potentially extending the video limit to a staggering 15 minutes! This shift is a testament to TikTok's commitment to embracing comprehensive narratives and championing the cause of long-form video content in 2024.

So, take note. It's time to brush up your storytelling skills, add layers to your content and make the most of this exciting trend. 

AI take-over 

As social media platforms continue to evolve, AI is becoming increasingly instrumental in shaping user experiences. Fancy a caption that resonates with your audience? AI's got you covered. It's not just about crunching numbers and analysing data. The AI of 2024 will be a creative beast, offering you tips for catchy captions that will have your followers hitting the 'like' button like there's no tomorrow.

And let's not forget images. AI tools are becoming more adept at recognising and categorising images, which could completely transform the way we use and engage with visual content on social platforms. Additionally, AI-powered tools are playing a pivotal role in content moderation, ensuring a safer and more inclusive online environment. 

And here's the cherry on the cake - personalisation. AI will play a pivotal role in personalising user experiences on social media. Advanced algorithms can tailor content to individual users based on their likes, interests, and browsing history. This means more relevant content for users and more engagement for brands. It's a win-win.

So, brace yourself for a social media landscape that's more intuitive, more personalised, and with more potential.

Authenticity is key

Get ready to hear the golden truth of 2024, authenticity isn't just important, it's reigning supreme! Consumers aren’t just scrolling for a quick sales pitch or an obvious photoshopped advert. No siree, they’re hunting for something that's real, relatable, and genuine.

Today, consumers demand transparency. They want to see behind the scenes, understand your values and connect with your story. They’re seeking out brands and influencers who are 'keeping it real'.

Now, don't get it twisted, this doesn’t mean you have to ditch your well-curated aesthetics. It’s about striking a balance. Yes, make your feed look amazing, but also sprinkle in those candid moments, those real stories, those genuine connections. It’s about opening up, being vulnerable, and showing the world the true face of your brand.

So, if there's one trend you should be betting your marketing budget on in 2024, it's authenticity. 

Influencer marketing is here to stay 

Guess what's not going out of fashion any time soon? Yep, you've nailed it - influencer marketing. It seems we're not quite ready to wave goodbye to our favourite Insta-stars and TikTok sensations. Despite the whirlwind of new trends hitting the digital sphere, this tried and tested marketing method is here to stay. 

But don't get complacent; there's a twist to the tale. The influencer marketing game is evolving. Say ta-ta to vanity metrics and hello to authentic engagement. In 2024, it's not just about having the most followers or the flashiest content. Brands are seeking out influencers who truly resonate with their audience, who are genuine, and who can spark a real connection.

It's not just about flogging a product, it's about creating meaningful relationships, sharing personal experiences, and building trust. If an influencer loves your brand, their followers will likely feel the same. This connection is far more potent than any traditional ad. So, if you're looking to jump into the influencer marketing game in 2024, remember - authenticity is key.

Keyword search & SEO takeover 

Social media isn't just for scrolling, liking, and sharing, it's also becoming your go-to search engine.  More and more people are turning to their favourite social platforms for a quick, hassle-free search. 

Need holiday inspiration? People are flocking to TikTok for some exotic destination ideas. Want to try a new cuisine but not sure where to go? Instagram's got you covered with thousands of restaurant recommendations at your fingertips. And let's not forget fashion - social platforms are bursting with style tips, outfit ideas, and even direct links to snag those must-have pieces.

The idea is simple: why go to Google when you can get real-life experiences, tips, and recommendations from real people on social media? It's convenient, personalised and just a tap away.

This means optimising your posts with keywords has never been more crucial if you aim to enhance the discoverability of your content.

This trend is transforming the way we use social media, morphing it from a platform for connection and entertainment into a robust search engine. So, the next time you're unsure of something, don't just Google it, social it!

UGC creators soar

Hold onto your hats, because in 2024, User Generated Content (UGC) creators are not just flying, they're soaring! According to Forbes, a whopping 86% of companies are incorporating UGC as part of their marketing strategy. And why not? It's more trustworthy than traditional advertising, it adds credibility to your product, and it beautifies your feed no end.

So, what's the 2024 spin? UGC creators are now commonplace. They aren't mythical creatures anymore, but a major part of the social media ecosystem. With no obligation for a massive follower count or to show their face, more influencers are helping brands build a stockpile of UGC content all year round. And let's be honest, in an era where authenticity is key, this user-generated content is pure gold. 

So, there you have it - the top 5 social media trends for 2024. From AI-powered marketing and long-form TikTok videos to authenticity and UGC creators ruling the roost, the digital sphere is ripe for innovation. As social media platforms continue to evolve, we can't wait to see how these trends shape our online experiences. So buckle up and get ready to ride the wave!

 

How to increase your influence as a UGC content creator

In response to the world’s ever-increasing appetite for authenticity, the concept of an ‘influencer’ has gradually evolved from its previous association with ‘celebrity’ and the most elite figures of society to the ‘everyday’ person. 

The shift in the operation of influencer marketing has revolutionised how brands choose to interact with their audience. With many businesses now incorporating User-generated content (UGC) created by regular people into their marketing strategies, they can effectively bridge the gap between themselves and their consumers. 

Whether you’re a veteran or just starting your journey as a UGC creator, in this article we will walk you through the steps to increase your influence, from understanding what UGC creators are to mastering the art of crafting compelling content. Let's dive in!

What is a UGC creator? 

User Generated Content, also known as, UGC, has surged in popularity in recent years. UGC creators are individuals who harness the power of user-generated content to influence, engage, and inspire their online audiences. They create content that resonates with their niche community, leveraging platforms like social media, blogs, and forums to share their authentic experiences and opinions.

From that viral Peter Thomas Roth Eye Cream moment to fellow TikToker, Nathan Apodaca, casually drinking Ocean Spray whilst skateboarding to Fleetwood Mac's "Dreams", it’s clear that the unfiltered story-telling of UGC creates a monumental buzz around a product, undeniably shaping a consumer’s purchase choices. 

Why is UGC so powerful? 

Feels authentic 

One of the primary reasons UGC is so powerful is its authenticity. Unlike traditional advertising, UGC comes from real people sharing engaging anecdotes to stimulate meaningful conversations and provide honest insights into their experiences. The personality element of UGC is a key reason why it is so appealing to the masses, allowing creators to naturally establish emotional connections with their audience. Consumers are 2.4 times more likely to view UGC as authentic versus content by brands. That’s why ensuring your content is authentic can help you build trust with your audience, which can ultimately help you become more relatable and trustworthy. 

Boosts engagement

The relatability of this incredibly intimate content enables creators to connect with a range of different communities, boosting engagement, but also serving as social proof. Social proof is a social phenomenon in which people tend to emulate actions that have been endorsed by people they typically trust, which plays a pivotal role in attracting new consumers and fostering more successful conversions for businesses. 

Influencer purchase decisions 

With 79% of social media users acknowledging that UGC highly impacts their buying behaviour, it is not surprising that UGC is a commonly used 

marketing tool in the digital age. By becoming a UGC creator, you can directly influence the choices of your audience. 

Faster than producing content from scratch 

Creating UGC is efficient. You're not starting from scratch; you're building on existing experiences or knowledge, which speeds up content production. This allows you to stay consistent and maintain a loyal following.

How to become a UGC creator?

If you’ve ever posted a hotel review or raved about your favourite makeup brand via your social media account, you’ve created UGC! If you want to turn this into a full-fledged career, we’ve created some steps to help you begin your journey as a UGC creator: 

 Step 1: Identify your niche  

Explore your passions and find a gap in the market for each. Focusing on a niche can hone your expertise, allowing you to become the go-to creator for information or resources for your audience. Frequently test new styles of content and see how your audience engages. The more unique, the better!  

Step 2: Utilise the right platforms 

Identify what platform(s) work best for your audience and acquaint yourself with their special creator features and tools. This is key for establishing your community. 

If you create content centred around business and entrepreneurship, LinkedIn is likely your go-to platform, or if you like to create short and snappy lifestyle videos, TikTok and/or Instagram is the best platform to receive high engagement. Wherever it is, just be where your audience can easily discover your content. 

Step 3: Craft compelling UGC

Create content that provides value, educates, entertains, or solves problems for your audience. Your content should resonate with your niche and reflect your unique perspective. Test your ideas from step one to build your portfolio. When you figure out what works, learn how to develop a strong and consistent story within your content to increase engagement and familiarity with your page. 

Step 4: Mastering hashtags and SEO for discovery

Research the best and most relevant trending hashtags in your niche. It is also worth creating a unique tagline or hashtag that your audience will know you by to enhance discoverability. Tools such as Semrush and Google Keyword Planner can aid you with this. 

Step 5: Engage and build a community

Engagement is key. Respond to comments, participate in discussions, and build a loyal community around your content.Understanding who your audience is, creating content that resonates with them and engaging in authentic conversations helps foster trust and loyalty. Setting measurable goals will help you track your progress and identify areas to help you increase your engagement. 

Step 6: Collaborations and partnerships 

Collaborate with other creators and brands within your niche. Partnerships can expand your reach and introduce your content to new audiences. To help you easily find brands to collaborate with, look at using influencer marketing platforms like The Influence Room  With exciting campaigns across a range of different industries that can be located via a browse wall, The Influence Room can help you secure partnerships and build relationships with the most exciting brands in no time! 

A final thought

As a UGC creator, your content has the ability to connect with a wide range of people in meaningful ways. By identifying your niche, becoming a master of SEO and regularly engaging with your budding community, you can strengthen your influence and leave a lasting imprint as a UGC creator. 

Frequently asked questions about UGC creators

There isn’t a particular follower count needed to become a UGC creator. Brands tend to focus on your niche, the quality of your content and the relationship you have with your audience when considering a collaboration. Just remember; as your influence grows, so will your follower count.

Reach out to brands that align with your niche and values. You can also join influencer marketing platforms, like The Influence Room,  where brands seek UGC creators for collaborations. Building a strong online presence and a portfolio of quality UGC will attract brand partnerships over time.

While UGC creators and influencers share many similarities, they have their differences as well. Like influencers,  UGC creators produce original content, but the difference is that UGC creators create content without being compensated by a brand. Influencers see this in the form of either payment or gifted products, whilst, UGC creators serve as brand advocates curating content that typically ends up on a brand’s own channels. 

User-Generated Content: Turning Users Into Advocates

If you regularly emerge at Oxford Circus at rush hour, the chances are you’ve had a can of Diet Coke thrust into your hands, whether you want it or not.  And for the next 100 yards there is a graveyard of half-drunk cans. 

Which begs the question - how much are brands wasting by putting the wrong thing in the wrong hands? Imagine the millions that could be clawed back annually as companies try to get consumers to take notice, try their product and change their buying behaviours.

With game-changing marketing in the form of User Generated Content (UGC), brands now possess the remarkable capability to seamlessly place the perfect product into precisely the right hands, exactly when it matters most. 

What is UGC?

User-generated content, or UGC, is genuine branded content in the form of images, videos, reviews, or podcasts created by influencers, customers, or UGC creators. Its purpose is to promote specific products or services by blending the creator’s content, personal experiences, and self-promotion in a unique way. 

Through UGC, brands can give their products to the right customers who already cherish the products and are willing to give genuine reviews or testimonials. This may lead to the creation of authentic content based on the customer’s personal experience with the products. 

UGC content is typically shared exclusively on the brand’s social media channels, rather than on the account of influencers or UGC creators. This approach allows brands to provide social proof of their product’s benefits to their existing audience base. 

What are UGC benefits for brands?

The primary aim of running a UGC campaign or hiring UGC creators is to produce authentic content to spotlight your products or services' benefits to your existing audience. Your brand can also reap various advantages of UGC outlined below:

Establish brand loyalty

UGC opens up conversations between a brand and its customers, and this level of interaction helps to build a sense of community and brand loyalty. By sharing authentic content based on the customer’s or influencer’s personal experiences, brands offer customers a chance to take part in the brand’s story and growth, making them feel valued while also deepening their relationships. 

Boost credibility through authenticity

By leveraging UGC, brands can utilise influencers, UGC creators or even customers’ unique and authentic content to promote and showcase the benefits of their products and services. UGC is often filled with personal stories and emotions, making customers perceive these types of content as trustworthy and genuine. 

UGC content is grounded in the other user’s personal experience with the products, hence fostering trust between customers and brands. People these days trust other people's opinions, and UGC acts as the most effective way of word of mouth. 

Influence purchasing decisions

UGC has a profound impact on the final stage of a buyer’s journey. Its authenticity acts as social proof—the non-promotional, unaltered, and easy to grasp content persuades potential customers to believe your product is worth purchasing. For example, when your audience sees influencers using your product, they can visualise its benefits and how well it seamlessly complements the influencer’s style. This might also sway their decision to make a purchase. 

More precisely, 85% of customers believed that UGC plays a significant role in purchasing decisions. Customers who have come across UGC are more likely to make purchases than those who have been exposed to branded content.

How The Influence Room can help?

Introducing the newest and fastest-growing influencer marketing platform: The Influence Room. A straightforward and all-in-one dashboard where creators, influencers, or customers have the opportunity to try the products or services they love while also collaborating with the world’s top brands. 

The Influence Room can help you to start a successful UGC campaign, from finding real advocates who already love your brand to managing the entire campaign process, and ultimately generating and analysing impactful results. 

By allowing your samples to be chosen by those who desire them, you are putting the right products into the right hands precisely when needed. This approach will likely result in better awareness, positive sentiment, brand loyalty, elevated credibility, and more positive buying intentions. It will also stop you from wasting time, money, and effort. 

So stop throwing the product on stony ground, and allow it to be chosen by those who are genuine fans or genuinely curious.  That’s the beauty of The Influence Room, the space where collaboration and brand love are still the most important factors. Book a free demo to discover how The Influence Room can make a difference for your brand.