How to approach your social media efforts in 2019

The WGBH Social Media Portal NYE Edition rounds up the best articles I’ve read about social media in 2019. Among the curated stories, there are a few themes that emerge:

1. A pivot in "trust" back to friends and family. What this means for you: invest in 1-1 messaging, Groups, and platforms that provide an opportunity to connect directly with fans. Yes, this is a heavier lift with smaller but more impactful return.
2. The growth of platforms outside the Facebook family, such as LinkedIn and TikTok. What this means for you: diversify! Test the waters of new platforms, be they established (Pinterest) or emerging (Vero).
3. Increasing opportunities (as well as challenges) in social advertising, particularly around data & privacy issues. What this means for you: politics aside, Facebook & others have excellent marketing capabilities, so invest the time and money if you want to use them effectively
4. Increasing need for flexibility to adapt to new ways of storytelling, such as Stories and looping video. What this means for you: Be creative! Social platforms are constantly innovating. Follow @NatGeo, @netflix @nytimes for inspiration.
5. The impact of nurturing a community that can act as nano-influencers & authentic advocates of your company. What this means for you: Invest the resources you need to empower your employees and those that love your organization.