Social Media Predictions for 2014

By Caitlin Cunningham

(1) Google+ Will Finally Be a Thing

Let’s face it – Google+ is a bit confusing. And like it or not, that’s been a significant deterrent in their rate of conversion from Facebook. One of the biggest hurdles that Google+ has had to surmount is convincing the public that as a social platform, they can provide better connections and unique experiences. Once users pass the learning curve, Google+ is awesome. The functionality, the communities, the hangouts… these features are like nothing else on the web. We predict in 2014 enough people will finally get it, and form an emotional bond with the network like they currently do with platforms like Pinterest and Instagram.

 

(2) Images are Key to Generating Reach

This seems like a no-brainer, yet not all businesses that attempt to network through social media get it. The fact of the matter is image-based content significantly outperforms posts without. Don’t believe us? Just look at the stats. Facebook photos receive 53% more likes than text alone. Picture Tweets get 18% more clicks, 89% more favorites and 150% more reTweets.  Why? Because generally speaking, humans are lazy. Visuals stimulate us more and capture our attention. We don’t have time to read! It’s the Internet, for cryin’ out loud.  We expect instant gratification, and pictures shared via social media satisfy this need. Period.

 

(3) Prepare for the Rise of the Micro-Video

We’ve already seen the launch of this development through platforms like Vine, Instagram, and SnapChat, but we guarantee you it’ll explode in popularity over the next year. Marketers are wise to figure out a way to utilize this real-time video sharing phenomenon because it is going to be ubiquitous. These bite-sized pieces of content will surely change the face of social media, and we’re looking forward to seeing its potential flourish.