Why You Should Think Twice Before Jumping on a New Social Platform
It happened; another social media platform has launched. It’s promising to be the next FacePinStagramChatBook, and you don’t want to miss out — so you join it.
Though it is enticing to jump on every hot new social media platform, there are also plenty of platforms that have not been able to stand the test of time (R.I.P Vine). We’re going to give you a few things to consider before joining a new social media platform.
Social Media Overload
“Be sure to follow me on Twitter, Instagram, Snapchat, Pinterest, Tumblr, Facebook, LinkedIn…:”
When it comes to promoting your social media, the fewer the better. You don’t want to overload your audience with too many calls to action (CTAs). According to YouTube’s creator playbook, “CTAs should be minimal and simple. Too many prompts can cause confusion. The goal is to make it as easy as possible for viewers to perform an action”
Studies have shown that if you give your audience more than three actions, they actually won’t do any of them. Limiting your active social media platforms is necessary, especially if you want your audience to take action.
Listen to your audience.
If your audience is suggesting you join a new social media platform, check it out. Evaluate how that platform can serve you in your overall goals online. Additionally, you want to be where your audience is, so if your audience is ditching one platform for another, then you should at least be aware of where they’re going and how they can stay connected with you.
If you don’t like it, don’t join it.
This should go without saying, but one of the best ways to decide if you should join an emerging social media platform is asking yourself, “Do I like it?” Some people really love being on Pinterest, others prefer Tumblr. Just because people are on it doesn’t mean you should join it. One more time for the people in the back. JUST BECAUSE PEOPLE ARE ON IT DOESN’T MEAN YOU SHOULD JOIN IT. Be on the platforms you enjoy and where your audience is. If they want to keep in touch with you, they’ll know where to find you.
At the very least, just claim your name.
No one likes getting Catfished.
When a new social media platform emerges, the best thing to do is at the very least claim your social handle. This prevents anyone else from claiming your name and posing as you or just posting things that people may mistake for you. Claim your social media handle and let people know where they can find the real you.
Conclusion
There is always going to be a new emerging social media platform that you’re going to want to jump on. Some will stay, and some will go. The biggest question to ask yourself is, “Is it worth my time?” Managing the current load of social media platforms is a task in itself. See how the new platform develops over time, and if it makes sense, add it to your social media circle.
What social media platforms are you currently using?
