In today’s ever-changing digital landscape, small businesses may wonder: “Does social media still matter?” As the host of The Dream Biz Podcast, I sat down with Kaley Tawadros, a social media expert, to answer this very question. With algorithms shifting constantly and trends emerging overnight, it’s understandable why business owners might feel overwhelmed. But Kaley reassures us that social media is not only relevant—it’s essential for growing your business in 2024.
In this post, I’ll share insights from our conversation and practical tips to help you succeed on social media today. Keyword: Does Social Media Still Matter
Why Does Social Media Still Matter in 2024?
Yes, social media still matters—and more than ever! The primary reason is simple: people are still using social media. Whether it’s Facebook, Instagram, or TikTok, millions of users are logging in daily. If your business isn’t showing up on social platforms, you’re missing out on the chance to connect with potential customers. Worse, your competitors are already there, gaining the attention you could be attracting.
Even though the algorithms might feel like an enigma, showing up consistently builds brand recognition and trust over time. When you keep posting and interacting, people remember you when they need the product or service you offer.
Adapting to Social Media Algorithm Changes
One of the biggest frustrations for business owners is that social media algorithms change constantly. Something that worked a few months ago might not be effective today. Kaley shared that TikTok’s rise to prominence disrupted the way platforms like Instagram and Facebook function, with short-form video content becoming more prevalent across all platforms.
To stay ahead of the game:
- Pay attention to industry experts: Keep an eye on social media professionals who track these changes closely.
- Review your analytics: Regularly check your content performance. Are certain types of posts consistently getting better engagement? Double down on that style of content.
- Adapt your strategy every 90 days: Social media requires time to build momentum. Give your strategy at least 90 days before assessing its effectiveness and making tweaks based on data.
How to Succeed on Social Media in 2024
So, how do you navigate social media in 2024? Kaley offers some key strategies for business owners struggling with their online presence:
- Market Research: Go deeper than surface-level questions about your audience. What are their interests? What pop culture references resonate with them? Understanding their pain points will help you craft content that speaks to them.
- Create Content for Your Audience: Always remember who your audience is and tailor your content accordingly. Kaley suggests focusing on what they care about. Whether it’s humor, education, or inspiration, create posts that resonate with their world.
- Consistency Over Perfection: You don’t have to post every day to be successful. Posting quality content 3-5 times a week is more effective than bombarding your followers with irrelevant posts.
Founder-Forward Content: A Growing Trend
One of the emerging trends in 2024 is what Kaley calls founder-forward content. This type of content showcases the human side of your business—whether you’re a solo entrepreneur or part of a larger team. Consumers today want to see the faces behind the brand. They crave authentic, behind-the-scenes glimpses into your company’s mission, values, and day-to-day life.
Brands like Duolingo, Scrub Daddy, and Poppy have mastered this by combining humor, relatability, and transparency in their social media presence. Even if you’re a larger company, incorporating elements of human storytelling can make your brand feel more relatable.
How to Handle Burnout and Algorithm Changes
Kaley understands the pressure of feeling like you need to be everywhere at once. But her advice is simple: focus on the platforms that matter most to your audience. Rather than spreading yourself too thin, invest in one or two platforms where your target customers are most active. Additionally:
- Post content that resonates with your audience rather than chasing every trend.
- Monitor your analytics and adjust based on what’s working for your specific audience.
- Embrace trends wisely: While following trends can give your posts a boost, it’s important to remain true to your brand voice and mission.
Final Practical Tips
If you’re struggling with your social media strategy, here are a few final tips:
- Ask your audience what they want: Run polls, post questions on stories, and join Facebook groups to gather insights.
- Be authentic: Whether you’re a personal brand or not, show your audience the real you. Authenticity builds trust.
- Start small: Focus on creating a few solid pieces of content each week, rather than overwhelming yourself with too much.
Remember, social media is about building relationships. As Kaley said, “If you’re not posting, people will see your competitors.” So don’t give up—keep showing up, learning, and growing with your audience.
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