Imagine waking up one morning and finding your favourite news sources—the ones you’ve always relied on for daily updates—suddenly vanished from your Facebook and Instagram feeds. That’s exactly what happened to millions of Canadians when Meta, the parent company of these popular social media platforms, chose to block news content from its platforms, making it no longer viewable, in response to Canada’s Online News Act.
This decision has left many of us wondering, “Where do I go now for my news?” As small business owners, staying informed about current events is crucial for understanding your customers, adapting to market trends, and making informed decisions. So, how are Canadians adjusting to this new reality? Here are a few alternatives we’ve found.
The Rise of Direct Subscriptions and Newsletters
One of the most significant trends we’ve seen is a surge in subscriptions to traditional news outlets. Many Canadians are now opting to pay for direct access to news content, either through digital subscriptions or even physical newspapers. This shift has been a welcome change for established news organizations as they’ve experienced a renewed interest in their offerings.
This increase in direct subscriptions has also led to a rise in the popularity of e-newsletters as a way to receive curated news content. Many Canadians are finding value in receiving a daily or weekly newsletter that compiles the most important stories in one convenient format.
The Expanding Reach of Other Social Media Platforms
Beyond Facebook and Instagram, other social media platforms are also gaining popularity as news sources. Twitter, now rebranded as X, has long been a go-to platform for breaking news and real-time discussions. LinkedIn, while primarily focused on professional networking, is also emerging as a source of industry-specific news and insights. YouTube, with its vast array of content creators and channels, has also become a popular source of news and information for many people.
These platforms offer users the ability to curate their feeds and follow reputable sources, making it easier to filter out misinformation and stay up to date on current events. With the rise of algorithmic content curation, users can customize their news consumption like never before, tailoring their feeds to reflect their interests and priorities. As social media continues to evolve, it will be interesting to see how these platforms adapt to meet the changing needs and preferences of their users.
Sharing Screenshots
While Canadians are unable to share links to news outlets, many Canadians and news platforms have opted to share screenshots of headlines either outlining the bulk of the storyline or encouraging readers to find the article themselves. Some areas have even made Facebook groups with the sole purpose of distributing news in this format.
MYOB Helps Small Businesses Navigate the Changing Media Landscape
As a small business owner, navigating the ever-evolving landscape of social media can be challenging. That’s where MYOB comes in. We can help you create engaging content, curate and manage newsletters, optimize your social media presence, and connect with your target audience. Understanding how your customers consume news is essential for tailoring your messaging to effectively reach and engage with them.
From creating engaging videos to sharing informative blog posts, we can help you stay ahead in the digital landscape and distinguish your brand in a competitive online environment. With our expertise and tools, you can navigate the changing media landscape with confidence and see real results in your business growth.
Over to You
The decision by Meta to block news content in Canada has undoubtedly had a significant impact on how Canadians find and view their news. While the initial shock may have subsided, the long-term consequences of this move remain to be seen. As small business owners, it’s essential to stay informed and adapt to these changes. By exploring alternative news sources, you can continue to thrive in the digital age.
So, the question is, how are you getting your news now? Are you relying on traditional news outlets and e-newsletters, or exploring other social media platforms? We’d love to hear from you.
Written by: Jennifer Hanford