Did you know that people spend an average of three hours per day on social media? That’s a lot of time spent scrolling! But, have you ever wondered what exactly they’re doing during all that time? And, what exactly does it mean for you as a business owner? We’re looking at a recent Hubspot article that discusses audience social media habits and how you can create content that stops the scroll.
Reasons for Using Social Media
So, why do people spend so much time on social media? The survey revealed three primary reasons. The first and most significant is to keep up with friends and family. It’s no surprise that social platforms have become a virtual gathering place for loved ones. It is called “social” after all.
The second reason is to find entertaining content that can provide some much-needed distraction from daily routines.
And lastly, users turn to social media for learning new things, expanding their knowledge, and gaining valuable insights.
Different Platform, Different Priorities
Interestingly, these reasons can vary depending on the platform users are engaged with. Let’s take a closer look:
Facebook users primarily want to keep up with their friends and family. It’s where they share pictures, updates, and life milestones. Additionally, finding entertaining content is a significant part of their Facebook experience.
YouTube
When it comes to YouTube, entertainment takes the front seat. People flock to this platform to watch videos that amuse, entertain, and offer a much-needed escape from reality. Learning new things and seeking ideas and inspiration also play a significant role in YouTube usage.
Instagram is all about visually sharing moments and memories. Users want to share their pictures, keep up with their loved ones, and follow the lives of celebrities and influencers. It’s a platform for visual storytelling and inspiration.
TikTok
TikTok has taken the social media world by storm, and its usage patterns reflect its popularity. Users predominantly visit TikTok for entertaining content. It’s a go-to platform for finding trends, learning new things, and seeking creative inspiration. Interestingly, people describe how they interact with the various social media platforms, but they say they watch TikTok.
People primarily use LinkedIn to learn new things relevant to their industry, keep up with news and cultural trends, and stay updated on brands and products in their field.
Tailoring Your Content for Success
Now that we know how people use social media platforms differently, it’s crucial for small businesses to tailor their content accordingly. Understanding your target audience and the platform they frequent is key to effective marketing.
When creating your social media posts, keep in mind the following:
- On Facebook and Instagram, users are looking to share content from their lives, connect with friends and family, and find entertaining material.
- YouTube users seek out entertaining content, but they are also looking for knowledge and inspiration.
- TikTok users want to be entertained with videos that teach them something new or spark their creativity.
- LinkedIn users are on the platform for education, industry insights, and staying up to date with relevant brands and products.
By aligning your content with these preferences, you can increase engagement, connect with your target audience more effectively, and ultimately drive better results for your small business.
The bottom line is this: understanding how your customers spend their time on social media is crucial for any small business looking to improve their online marketing efforts. Remember, it’s not just about being present on these platforms but also about delivering the right content in the right way. By tailoring your posts according to user preferences, you’ll be able to capture their attention, build meaningful connections, and make your online presence more impactful.
Links in this episode: Consumers Spend 3+ Hours on Social Media Daily: What They’re Doing on Each Platform
