Inside social media algorithms: The good, the bad and the ugly
Let’s be real for a minute. Social media algorithms have dramatically changed the way people interact, communicate, and consume information on the internet. The rise of social media has created new opportunities for individuals to connect with others, share information, and express themselves in new and exciting ways. However, as the world of social media evolves, new platforms and technologies are emerging, offering users new and innovative ways to engage with content and other users. Keep reading for our expert tips on how to make your social media posts stand out – not just to followers, but also to social media algorithms.
How do social media algorithms work?
Facebook and Twitter were two of the first social media platforms to gain widespread popularity, and they remain among the most popular social media platforms today. Both platforms are based on the idea of following individuals and receiving content based on their activity and interests. Users can follow friends, family members, celebrities, organizations, and other users whose content they are interested in. As users engage with the platform and follow more individuals, the social media algorithms used by these platforms are designed to curate and distribute content based on the user’s interests and activity.
While the concept of following people and receiving content based on their activity and interests is not new, it is also a limiting concept for audiences. As users grow and evolve, their interests change, and the content they are interested in may no longer align with the individuals they follow. This can result in a feed that is no longer relevant or enjoyable to the user, leading to decreased engagement and overall dissatisfaction with the platform.
The good news? TikTok has disrupted the traditional social media landscape by offering a new and innovative approach to content distribution and social media algorithms. TikTok’s algorithm is based on tracking a user’s interests and feeding them content that they are into. For example, if a user visits Spain, they may see content related to travel and culture in Spain. The following year, if they are interested in home renovation, they may see content related to home improvement and design. This new method of feeding content to users satiates their appetites more effectively than the traditional model of following people, which can become boring over time.
The key to TikTok’s success is its ability to understand and track a user’s evolving interests. As users explore different topics and engage with different types of content, TikTok’s algorithm adapts and curates content that is tailored to their changing interests. This creates a dynamic and engaging experience that keeps users engaged and satisfied with the platform.
TikTok’s algorithm also takes into account the user’s engagement with the platform. The more a user interacts with the platform, the more TikTok’s algorithm can understand and curate content that is relevant and engaging to the user. This creates a positive feedback loop that keeps users engaged and satisfied with the platform. Game changing!
Social media algorithms marketers need to know about in 2023
In the name of research, RED Marketing compared Facebook, Twitter and TikTok’s social media algorithms. We found that Facebook and Twitter struggle to keep up with users as their interests change. The social media algorithms used by these platforms are not designed to track and adapt to changing user interests, and as a result, they often struggle to provide relevant and engaging content. This can lead to a decline in user engagement and an overall decrease in the platform’s popularity.
One of the biggest challenges facing social media platforms is the competition for user attention. With so many platforms vying for users’ time and attention, it’s crucial for social media platforms to offer a unique and compelling user experience. TikTok has successfully differentiated itself from the competition by offering a personalised and dynamic experience that keeps users engaged and satisfied.
Social media algorithms are constantly evolving and adapting to the changing needs of users. While Facebook and Twitter were initially successful by offering users a way to connect with friends and like-minded individuals, TikTok has disrupted the traditional social media landscape by offering a new and innovative approach to content distribution. By tracking and adapting to users’ evolving interests, TikTok has created a dynamic and engaging experience that keeps users engaged and satisfied with the platform. This is a critical aspect of social media success, as user engagement is key to retaining users and keeping them active on the platform.
Moreover, TikTok has shown that social media algorithms can be used to create a more personal and engaging experience for users. By curating content based on user interests and engagement, TikTok has created a platform that provides users with content that is relevant and interesting to them. This has resulted in a highly engaged user base and a platform that continues to grow and evolve.
It’s also important to note that TikTok’s algorithm is designed to prioritize user privacy and security. The platform implements strict security measures to protect user data and ensure that users can feel safe and secure while using the platform. This contrasts with some other social media platforms that have come under fire for their handling of user data and privacy.
In the world of social media, success is determined by the ability to attract and retain users. By offering a dynamic and personalised experience, TikTok has positioned itself as a leading player in the social media landscape. As social media continues to evolve, platforms that are able to effectively track and adapt to changing user interests will continue to be successful and thrive.
Outdated social media algorithms that need to die
In conclusion, Facebook and Twitter were pioneers in the world of social media, but their algorithms, based on following individuals, are becoming outdated. TikTok’s algorithm, which is based on tracking user interests, is a more effective approach to curating and distributing content. This new method of feeding content to users keeps them engaged and satisfied with the platform. TikTok’s success serves as a reminder that social media algorithms are an integral aspect of a platform’s success, and platforms that are able to effectively track and adapt to changing user interests will continue to thrive.
Contact RED Marketing today and discover how we can help your business stay on top of social media algorithms!
