Social Media Is The New Search Engine

By Megan Mackay on June 7th, 2024

Stay Ahead Of The Curve

Social media is becoming the first place young people turn to for information. Whether they are looking for news updates, discovering new businesses, or looking for places to have coffee, recent research shows that 40% of Gen Z favour using social media as a search engine.

These figures are unsurprising, considering that the typical working adult spends an average of 2.5 hours on social media daily. 16-34 year olds are particularly more likely to turn to Instagram, TikTok or other platforms over Google or Bing.

How are people using different channels?

Instagram and TikTok
Instagram and TikTok have powerful algorithms that allow users to discover businesses, local venues, tourist destinations and more. Through captivating visuals and user-generated content, these platforms provide an authentic glimpse into the offerings of various brands.

The visual content offers another dimension of information and helps potential customers grasp the atmosphere and values of a business as they consider becoming customers. Due to this, these platforms are particularly beneficial for in-person businesses, such as hospitality venues, hotels, and restaurants, as they showcase their beautiful premises.

Pinterest
Pinterest serves as a haven for inspiration, allowing users to collect ideas on their virtual pinboards. This platform is a popular location to search for decor, event ideas, fashion, and more. Its curated boards and visually appealing content make it an irresistible destination for those in search of creativity.

Products-based businesses may find Pinterest to be a valuable marketing platform, particularly in the fashion and homeware niches.

YouTube
YouTube is the go-to platform for learning and education. From tutorials to in-depth lectures, YouTube offers a treasure trove of knowledge on virtually every topic imaginable.

Share your expert knowledge, offer behind-the-scenes glimpses into your industry or showcase your services and products in action. Demonstrating your skills on YouTube will give your business credibility and encourage viewers to convert to customers.

X
X (formerly Twitter) provides a way for people to interact with the latest news articles and get involved in organic responses from a wide range of perspectives. With its real-time updates and diverse content, users utilise X to stay informed about events and trends. Join the discourse about key events in your industry and build a reputation as a trusted voice in your community.

Why might your customers favour social content?

Social media content is popular because it's visually appealing, easy to consume, fosters a sense of community, and feels authentic. Images and videos catch people's attention, and they can quickly find what they're looking for. Creating a presence on social media will allow you to connect with your target audience, build relationships and gain a greater understanding of their values and interests.

Websites aren’t going anywhere

While social media is becoming an ever more popular way to source information, websites remain a cornerstone of online presence. A well-crafted website serves as a centralised hub where businesses can provide comprehensive information, showcase their products or services, and sell.

Dedicated search engines, such as Google, are still essential to customers discovering your website. Ensuring your content is SEO optimised is how to make your business rank higher on Google.

How to stay ahead of the curve

In order to run a successful digital marketing campaign, you need to stay updated with the latest trends and technology. Companies that are creative and adaptable to meet the changing needs of their audiences will stand the test of time and position themselves for growth.

The best way to stand out from your competitors is to combine a strong SEO-optimised website with a strategic social media plan. Making the most of how people use search engines and social media will ensure you are connecting with the audience most likely to convert to customers and clients.

Work with the experts

Here at Vooba, we provide comprehensive digital marketing packages tailored to your business. With teams of experts in both SEO and social media strategy working in harmony, we can implement an approach that will harness the benefits of both marketing methods.

Our vast experience of working with clients from a range of industries, from construction to hotels, equips us to apply our expertise to your marketing strategy.

We would love to discuss how we can help you maximise your online presence, reach your target audience, and attract new customers.

Let’s talk

Call us today on 01798 667167 to start the conversation. Alternatively, fill in our enquiry form .

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