Today’s business owners must navigate a complex network of platforms in the ever-changing world of social media. Each network has its own guidelines and target audience. Additionally, the platforms are constantly evolving. While sites like Facebook, Instagram, and Twitter are well-known for promoting businesses, it may be a good idea to check out Reddit as an additional option.
Let’s explore some of the different aspects of Reddit and whether businesses have a place on this fascinating platform.
Hint: The Short Answer Is Yes!
The short answer is a resounding yes; businesses do indeed have a place on Reddit. Reddit has become a popular and influential social media platform, with over 57 million daily active users as of December 2022. (Source: statista). The network is well-known for its different communities, known as subreddits, that cater to a broad spectrum of interests. Subreddits can offer businesses a one-of-a-kind opportunity to connect with potential clients who are genuinely interested in their products or services.
Why Would a Business Want to Be on Reddit?
There are several compelling reasons why businesses should include Reddit in their social media strategy:
Diverse Audience: Reddit’s user base is diverse in terms of demographics and interests, making it a perfect platform for reaching many people.
Authentic Engagement: In contrast to other platforms, Reddit members place a premium on transparency and authenticity. Businesses that engage in honest and transparent communication can generate trust and a loyal following.
Reddit is well-known for its ability to make material go viral. A well-received post can garner a lot of attention, potentially leading to an increase in website traffic and/or sales.
Market Research: Because Reddit offers a unique perspective on consumer interests and trends, it is an invaluable resource for market research and product creation.
How can a business be successful on Reddit?
It is imperative to acknowledge that success on Reddit cannot be guaranteed. As with implementing any marketing strategy, participating on Reddit requires a carefully planned approach. The following are some recommendations for organizations seeking to thrive on this platform:
Be Transparent:Honesty and authenticity are highly valued on Reddit. When promoting products or services, you must be transparent about your affiliation with an organization and what it provides.
Engage Genuinely:Actively take part in relevant subreddits, answer questions, and contribute valuable information. Avoid overly promotional behavior, as Reddit users tend to reject it.
Create Valuable Content:Posts that inform, entertain, or inspire are more likely to gain traction. Focus on creating content that resonates with your target audience.
Respect the Rules:Each subreddit has its rules and guidelines. Learn all the rules and stick to them to avoid getting banned or labeled as a spammer.
How Can Businesses Use Reddit for Social Listening?
First, let’s define social listening. Social listening, also known as social media monitoring, is the process of tracking and analyzing conversations, mentions, and trends on various social media platforms to obtain insights into public opinion, customer sentiment, and new trends. It’s essential to a company’s internet presence and reputation management.
Social listening is essential because it allows businesses to:
Understand customer sentiments and feedback.
Monitor brand mentions and reputation.
Find emerging trends and market opportunities.
Track competitor activities and consumer preferences.
Improve customer service and engagement.
Reddit offers a unique and untapped resource for social listening. Here’s why:
Candid Conversations: Reddit users often engage in frank discussions, providing unvarnished insights into their thoughts and preferences.
Niche Communities: Subreddits cater to extremely narrow hobbies and industries, allowing marketers to zero in on their target audience.
Real-Time Feedback: Businesses can receive real-time feedback and suggestions from potential customers by taking part in relevant discussions.
Trendspotting: Reddit is a great place to spot new trends that can help inform business strategies and product development.
Over To You!
There’s no denying that businesses of all sizes and within different industries can do well on Reddit. The platform offers unique opportunities for engagement, market research, and social listening. By approaching Reddit with transparency, authenticity, and a focus on creating value for the community, businesses can unlock its vast potential as a valuable addition to their social media strategy. Reddit is not just a place for memes and viral content; it’s a dynamic platform where businesses can build meaningful connections and gain invaluable insights.
Are you a “Redditor”? What are your thoughts about using it for your business?
Do you know what the internet is saying about you? Your online presence can be just as powerful as the words you say. Your digital footprint can significantly affect your reputation and success, whether you’re an individual or a business. As such, it’s critical to understand and monitor your digital footprint to ensure it accurately reflects the image you wish to present to the world.
Fortunately, it is never too late to start managing your online presence. Taking the time to cultivate a reputable digital footprint can help you achieve your personal and professional goals. It is important to remember that everything we post on the internet is permanent. By being mindful of what you post, you can create an online presence that reflects your best self and builds a positive reputation.
Here are eight things to consider as you grow your digital footprint and online presence.
#1. Do You Know What Your Digital Footprint Is Saying About You/Your Business?
Your digital footprint is the trail of information you leave behind as you interact with the internet. It includes everything from your social media profiles to your website and online reviews. But do you know what it’s saying about you or your business? Is it sending the right message? To find out, start by Googling yourself or your business.
#2. Who Does the Internet Say You/Your Business Are?
What do you find when you search for yourself or your company online? Are the search results accurate and positive, or are there misleading or outdated information? The internet’s perception of you or your business can shape the opinions of potential customers or staff. Overt personal opinions expressed online could create problems for you in the future.
#3. Would We Be Able to Find Your Birthday and Other Personal Information?
Are you feeling like your privacy is being invaded in our digital world? It can seem like your personal information is always just a few clicks away online. Luckily, there are steps you can take to protect your privacy and keep your data secure. Does a quick search reveal your birthday, where you went to school, your marital status, or even your personal preferences for music and movies? It’s essential to be mindful of the personal information you share online and to review your privacy settings regularly.
#4. SEO – Why Ranking Highly on Google Is So Important in Business
Search Engine Optimization (SEO) plays a vital role in your business’s online reputation. When potential customers look for the products or services your business offers, you’re going to want your website to show up at the top of the search results — the higher your Google rankings, the easier it is for people to find you online, which can lead to increased visibility and revenue.
#5. Do You Have Google Reviews?
Online reviews can heavily influence potential clients during their decision-making process. Do you have Google reviews for your business? Are they recent and positive, or do they need attention? You’ll want to monitor and respond to reviews regularly to build trust with your audience. After a positive customer experience, ask that customer if they would post a review for you.
#6. Do You Have Old Photos/Videos That Need to Be Updated or Removed?
Your online presence should reflect the current look of you or your business. If you have outdated photos or videos on your social platforms and website that are no longer relevant, it’s time to update or remove them. Old content can create confusion and give the impression of neglect or inactivity.
#7. Is Your Online Information Fresh, Current, and Up to Date?
Are you looking to make a great impression with potential clients? Accuracy is essential for your brand’s online success. Take the time to regularly check to ensure information about your business, such as operating hours, contact details, and addresses, is current and up to date.
Also, check that your website is up-to-date and displays the current year in the footer. An outdated online presence can give the impression of neglect or disinterest, leading to lost opportunities and customer frustration. On the other hand, keeping things fresh shows you’re actively maintaining your online presence.
Remember this: Your website and social media profiles are digital storefronts, and you should update and refresh them often to pique interest and keep visitors engaged. Posting fresh content and interacting with your audience demonstrates activity and engagement.
#8. When Was the Last Time You Posted on Social Media?
Consistency is key in the online world. A sporadic posting schedule can leave visitors wondering if you’re still in business. One way to stay active on social media is to create a content calendar and stick to a regular posting schedule. Doing so is a great way to maintain a professional online presence. If you need help with this, our social media team has years of experience!
Over to You.
As you can see, your online identity and digital footprint are valuable assets that require careful management. At MYOB, we understand the significance of keeping consistency with branding online. We begin by conducting an audit of existing channels before creating a new strategy with our clients while taking the time to review their digital footprints. If necessary, we invest in improving their online presence. The internet has a lot to say about you or your business, and it is essential to ensure that it is saying the right things.
I personally enjoy following and engaging with various Facebook and Instagram pages from my favourite brands, local businesses, and influencers, as do many other avid social media users. Many people, however, are unaware of a whole world of activity happening behind the scenes.
Well, get ready — you’re in for a treat today! Let’s go behind the scenes together for a sneak peek of the intriguing world of business page management on Facebook and Instagram. We’ll reveal some hidden characteristics that may not be known about by individuals who follow us on social media.
Private/Direct Messages and Groups
One of the lesser-known features of business page management is the ability to send and receive private or direct messages. These messages enable seamless communication between the organization and its followers. Page owners can also create and manage various groups, such as neighbourhood, interest-based, or professional groups, which helps foster a sense of community and engagement among their followers.
In addition to private messaging and group creation, business page management allows page owners to schedule and publish posts in advance. This feature makes it convenient for pages to maintain a consistent presence on social media platforms and reach a wider audience at optimal times. Furthermore, analytics tools are available to track the performance of posts, groups, and overall page engagement, supplying valuable insights for improving content strategy and audience targeting.
Pseudonym Accounts
Pseudonym accounts are user profiles created with a fictional or other name rather than the user’s real name. Since organizations are potentially interacting with people who prefer to remain anonymous on social media, they will need to figure out ways to balance respecting user privacy with maintaining authenticity on their pages.
On the other hand, individuals can feel secure about having the freedom to share their thoughts without worrying about criticism or reactions when using pseudonymous accounts. However, page owners should implement robust verification procedures to safeguard the credibility of their online community, as there is potential for misuse or fraudulent activities that can arise from anonymous communications.
Restricting Views
Page owners should consider having control over who can access their content. They can limit access to specific people or groups to ensure their content is seen by the proper people while also respecting privacy concerns.
Businesses can further improve their control over information access by putting robust security measures in place, as well as using encryption technology. Additionally, they may react to shifting privacy laws and maintain a secure environment for their content by routinely checking and adjusting access permissions.
Security Settings
Business page managers have the authority to set security parameters and decide who is allowed to post, tag, and perform other actions on their page. These settings help protect the page’s integrity and prevent spam or unwanted content.
Additionally, they can also monitor and moderate the comments and messages received on their page to ensure a positive user experience. Using these security measures helps to support a professional online presence and foster a safe environment for their audience.
Insights and Analytics
Facebook and Instagram supply insights and analytics that are among the most valuable tools for page managers. These analytics offer a comprehensive overview of the page’s performance, including reach, engagement, and demographic data. The data is typically accessible by the page’s administrator, which gives them valuable insights for strategy refinement.
By analyzing reach and engagement metrics, brands can understand the effectiveness of their content and make data-driven decisions to optimize their social media presence. Demographic data that is gathered allows organizations to target their audience effectively so they can better tailor their marketing efforts to reach the right people at the right time.
Hidden Likes Count
Recent changes on Instagram (and maybe Facebook for some pages) include the option to hide the number of likes on posts. Business page administrators still have access to them, though.
By hiding the number of likes, Instagram is helping to reduce the pressure and anxiety associated with seeking validation through likes. This change also allows users to focus more on the content itself, which helps foster a healthier online environment where meaningful interactions take precedence over popularity metrics.
Privacy Settings of Your Followers
The privacy settings of your followers play a significant role in what you can see as a business page manager. Some followers may choose to share your posts publicly, while others may restrict their content to a more private audience. Understanding these settings helps businesses customize content to meet their followers’ preferences and privacy concerns.
By understanding the privacy settings of your followers, you can ensure that your content reaches the right audience and resonates with them. This knowledge allows page owners to create more targeted and personalized marketing strategies, ultimately improving engagement and building stronger relationships.
Over to You
As you can see, the world of business page management on Facebook and Instagram is a multifaceted realm filled with powerful tools and hidden gems. It’s not just about posting content; it’s about crafting a tailored, engaging experience that respects individual preferences and fosters lasting connections.
So, as you continue your journey in the fascinating world of social media, remember that there’s always more beneath the surface. And, if you are a page owner or social media manager, it’s important to remember the value of staying informed and adapting to the evolving landscape. You’ll be better equipped to manage this dynamic environment and meaningfully interact with your audience.
As social media managers, our MYOB Inc. team is fully equipped to help you navigate the world of social media for your business.
Are you ready to meet the newest stars of the digital age? “Petfluencers” are taking the internet by storm, and their adorable antics have made them beloved by millions around the world. From cuddly cats to playful pups, these social media sensations are sure to put a smile on your face – and possibly help your business grow!
“Petfluencers,” which is short for “pet influencers,” are beloved pets who have their own social media profiles, dedicated fan bases, and substantial online engagement. From an Instagram-famous French Bulldog to a Twitter-famous parrot to a TikTok-trending cat, these and other fascinating animals are competing to attract brand attention and sponsorships.
Do you remember Tardar Sauce… aka Grumpy Cat? At the time of her passing in 2019, she had reached a net worth of $100 million! She was a petfluencer before the concept took off. So, although our pets are guaranteed to bring love, joy, and companionship into our lives… they may also have the potential to become superstars!
Let’s dive into the fascinating rise of petfluencer marketing and what it means for brands in today’s fast-paced digital landscape.
The Petfluencer Phenomenon
It is no secret that petfluencer marketing has seen a surge in popularity. A huge factor in this involves pet adoptions, which have increased significantly since the beginning of the pandemic. In 2022, more than 73% of households in Canada owned a pet, with 54% of Millennials calling themselves “pet parents.” (Source:https://petkeen.com/pet-ownership-statistics-canada/).
In recent years, pet ownership has the potential to become a financially rewarding endeavour, with some petfluencers earning upwards of $15,000 per post. This is likely due to the undeniable fact that pets are far more adorable than their human counterparts! The competition is heating up, though… nearly a quarter of pet owners are now attempting to transform their animal companions into social media celebrities.
This rise in petfluencer marketing has also presented a unique opportunity for brands to better connect with their customers. By taking advantage of the bond between pet owners and their companions, brands can create content that resonates and produces meaningful results. The best part? Petfluencer marketing is a powerful tool that does not require a large budget, making it an appealing option for businesses of all sizes. As the digital world continues to evolve, petfluencer marketing has the potential to remain an essential part of a successful marketing strategy.
Authenticity and Relatability
One of the key reasons behind the rise of petfluencers is their authenticity. Pets have genuine and unfiltered reactions, as opposed to human influencers who could be perceived as endorsing goods purely for financial gain. When a dog gets excited about a new toy or a cat playfully interacts with a product, it feels real, and audiences appreciate that honesty.
Plus, pets touch the core of our emotions. They can easily forge a deep emotional bond with their followers because of their simplicity, loyalty, and eccentric personalities. Given that they can result in greater consumer loyalty and brand advocacy, brands are keen on seeking out the power of these connections.
The Universal Appeal of Animals and Their Impact on Brands
Pets are a universal language. Regardless of cultural or language barriers, the love for animals transcends borders. This makes petfluencers highly accessible to global audiences, allowing brands to reach a diverse demographic with a single cute furry or feathery face. The growing popularity of petfluencers has opened up exciting opportunities for brands looking to connect with audiences in unique ways. Here’s how “petfluencer” marketing benefits brands:
#1. Enhanced Engagement. Petfluencer posts tend to receive higher engagement rates than traditional influencer marketing. Their adorable content draws viewers in, resulting in more likes, comments, and shares. This increased engagement can significantly boost brand visibility and reach.
#2. Authentic Storytelling. Through petfluencers, brands can tell authentic and heartwarming stories. For example, a pet food company can showcase the improvement of a rescue dog’s health after switching to its product, creating a touching narrative that resonates with viewers.
#3. Increased Trust. Audiences tend to trust the recommendations of petfluencers more than traditional advertisements. An endorsement from a cherished pet offers a degree of credibility and sincerity that money alone cannot buy.
#4. Diverse Campaigns. Petfluencers can work with brands on all sorts of campaigns, from product launches and reviews to charity partnerships and cause-related marketing. The versatility of petfluencer marketing allows brands to align with their specific goals and values.
#5. Viral Potential. Since petfluencer content is shareable and heartwarming, it has a great chance of going viral. Virality, in turn, can lead to immense exposure and brand recognition in a short amount of time.
Over to You
Petfluencer marketing is more than a trend; it’s a testament to the power of our beloved pets. Their emotional connections and universal charm make them powerful influencers. Brands can tap into creativity, authenticity, and heartwarming storytelling that resonates with their audiences. As the saying goes, “Every dog has its day.” And, in today’s marketing landscape, that day belongs to the petfluencers!
Do you remember when Twitter was a trustworthy source for real-time updates on breaking news, politics, celebrity gossip, and personal opinions? Unfortunately, the once-loved site is currently undergoing changes that are raising doubts and sparking debates across the internet. Twitter, now X, is seemingly undergoing a collapse that extends beyond technological issues – it is also becoming a shell of its former self.
Although many people may be struggling to see Twitter’s value, it is important to remember that it still enables countless conversations and connections for its users worldwide. The platform has been – and continues to be – a place where people can express their ideas and connect with others who share similar interests. Some businesses see the advantage in keeping active on Twitter if they have an audience there. However, for many users, the value of remaining on the platform leaves much to be desired.
Twitter’s Transitional Uncertainty
The app has been impacted by massive disruptions just months after Elon Musk took over the corporation. A particularly notable incident saw all links to external websites suddenly cease to function leaving users frustrated and perplexed. Even the widely used Tweetdeck was not spared from these technical hiccups. Such disruptions aren’t unprecedented, of course, but they’ve taken on a new level of unpredictability under Musk’s leadership.
A critical blow was dealt by the mass layoffs that saw more than half of Twitter’s workforce ousted. The aftermath left essential teams dealing with bugs, content moderation, and advertiser relations shorthanded and struggling to keep the platform afloat.
Twitter’s Unconventional Path
The consequences of Musk’s unconventional approach go beyond technological issues. His belief in “free speech absolutism” motivated him to reinstate accounts previously suspended “permanently” for numerous violations. This policy change unintentionally fuelled an increase in hate speech, raising questions about the platform’s commitment to providing a safe environment for users. This is one of the main reasons people have departed in droves for other online platforms where they feel more comfortable discussing their ideas.
Musk’s excursion into product development hasn’t been any smoother. The ambitious Twitter Blue, designed to offer a paid version of the platform with the perk of a verification badge, suffered from a botched rollout. Musk’s intention to level the playing field inadvertently led to spam and impersonations. And while Musk pledged a renewed paid API version, his abrupt termination of third-party app support tarnished the company’s relationship with developers who had enriched the platform.
Some were initially encouraged by Musk’s takeover of Twitter – perhaps the billionaire entrepreneur could breathe new life into a stagnant platform, for example. Under Musk’s leadership, investors, corporations, and regular users were optimistic about the platform’s revival. He was perceived as a free speech advocate who could broaden the range of voices on the app. Unfortunately, the reality is far from these initial expectations.
The Disconnect Between Musk’s Vision and Twitter’s Reality
The business side of Twitter is under threat, as evidenced by the departure of 500 major advertisers since Musk’s takeover. Advertisers are concerned about Musk’s erratic behaviour and the alarming surge in hate speech. The top 30 advertisers cut their spending on Twitter by an average of 42% under Musk’s tenure so far. His solution of encouraging more users to pay for subscriptions hasn’t been successful, with less than 0.2% of monthly active users opting for paid plans.
Contrary to Musk’s claims of Twitter’s growing user base, external data tells a different story. Traffic was higher before, and the app’s growth continues to decline. Twitter’s trustworthiness is deteriorating, and Musk’s goal of a more open and inclusive space remains mostly unrealized.
Elon Musk’s aspirations to revolutionize Twitter appear to be taking a different course than anticipated. The company’s financial future is uncertain, user trust is waning, and the promises of a more open platform are mired in inconsistencies. X’s journey has been anything but smooth sailing – but will it be able to reclaim its former glory, or will it go down in history as just another app that couldn’t make it through the transition? Only time will tell.
An Honest Opinion
Philip Berne, a Senior Editor at TechRadar, recently published his opinions about the perceived negative changes Twitter has undergone since Musk took over. His article, aptly titled “Sorry, Elon Musk, I Signed Up for Twitter, Not X. Now It’s Time to Go,” provides several reasons why he, as a once avid user of the platform since 2009, has decided he is now done with it. Berne sums his opinions up with the following lines:
I didn’t sign up for Twitter: The Payments App. I didn’t sign up for goods and services. I didn’t sign up for Everything. I signed up for Twitter.
For everything that Elon Musk has ‘accomplished’ since he bought Twitter, the biggest thing he hasn’t been able to deliver is Twitter.
Over to You
As a business owner, you should always consider which social media sites are ideal for your organization. X (formerly known as Twitter) has recently become a less popular platform for many, especially since its reach and capabilities can be hindered if you do not have a verified account. So, is being “verified” worth the monthly fee? Depending on your business goals, resources, and audience’s preferences, it may be worth it. Or you may be interested in diving into alternative platforms. Whatever you choose, MYOB Inc. will be watching, assessing, and helping you with your strategy.
The concept of allyship has gotten a lot of attention in recent years. As a result, more businesses and individuals are expressing solidarity with traditionally underrepresented and even oppressed communities. However, there is a significant difference between performative and supportive allyship. It is vital to understand this distinction to ensure that your efforts are authentic and relevant and contribute to positive change.
For example, Pride Month just ended. Throughout the month, you probably saw many rainbow logos and colours. There were many businesses who were simply sporting the logos since it’s what others are doing. They would fall into the performative allyship category. The businesses whose staff genuinely support the LGBTQ2IA+ community go beyond jumping on the trend du jour. Theirs’ is an example of supportive allyship.
In mid-2020, more than 28 million Instagram users posted black squares to show their support for the protests against the police killing of George Floyd in Minneapolis, Minnesota. With that number, it is safe to say that many who displayed those black squares on their social media had good intentions but were probably more caught up with appearing supportive rather than actually being supportive offline.
So, what makes someone an ally? Is allyship an identity, and who has the right to claim it? Let’s explore this further by learning more about the distinction between performative and supportive allyship.
Performative Allyship: Superficial Gestures that Lack Genuine Commitment
Performative allyship refers to actions or statements that give the illusion of support and solidarity with marginalized groups without genuine intent or commitment. Instead of coming from genuinely understanding the issues, it frequently results from a desire to appear moral or socially acceptable. Performative allies may make ineffective displays of support, such as sharing social media content or putting on symbolic clothing, without actively opposing oppressive structures or putting in the work to make genuine changes. This category of allyship often prioritizes optics over meaningful action – perhaps to avoid being “cancelled”. But unfortunately, this form of allyship perpetuates a cycle of empty gestures and hollow promises.
Key Characteristics of Performative Allyship:
#1. Superficiality: Performative allies focus on performative acts rather than addressing the root causes of systemic oppression. Their actions tend to be surface-level and lack substance or depth.
#2. Inconsistency: Instead of sustaining consistent support and engagement over time, performative allies may only participate in allyship during high-profile events or when it becomes trendy.
#3. Self-Centeredness: Performative allyship often centres around the ally’s image and seeks personal validation rather than centring the voices and needs of marginalized communities. In other words, the businesses that participate in this manner are more interested in receiving a “pat on the back” and recognition for their efforts before returning to business as usual after the month or event has ended.
Supportive allyship requires more than performative acts; it instead necessitates education, self-reflection, and a willingness to challenge one’s own privilege. This type of allyship is an ongoing process that requires consistent effort and a commitment to learning and unlearning. It means recognizing that allyship is not about personal validation or recognition but about supporting and advocating for those who face discrimination and marginalization. To be supportive allies, we must move beyond performative gestures and engage in meaningful actions that contribute to real change.
Supportive Allegiance; Sincere Engagement
Supportive allyship involves sincere engagement and dedication to opposing systemic injustices. Supportive allies actively seek out information about the struggles faced by marginalized groups, pay attention to their concerns, and work to destroy oppressive systems. Rather than simply showing support, they emphasize collaboration and take the lead in enacting meaningful change.
Primary Qualities of Supportive Allyship:
#1. Active Learning: To comprehend the subtleties and complexities of marginalized communities’ experiences, supportive allies continually educate themselves about the issues they’re standing up for.
#2. Amplifying Voices: Supportive allies give marginalized communities a platform and resources to speak out, assisting them in their efforts to bring about change. Allyship is not about your business and how great of an ally you are – it is about embracing others and amplifying the message.
#3. Taking Initiative: Allies who are supportive actively combat discriminatory systems and practices, both in their personal lives and in broader societal contexts. They are committed to creating long-lasting change and are willing to do the necessary work, even when it is uncomfortable or inconvenient.
Over to You
Understanding the difference between performative and supportive allyship is essential for businesses that wish to support any given cause. Performative allyship may offer temporary validation but lacks the depth and substance required to drive significant change. It may also result in followers questioning your authenticity. Supportive allyship, on the other hand, requires a genuine commitment to learning, listening, and taking concrete actions to challenge systemic oppression.
