Progress, Perspective, Possibilities
Namaste, readers! ???? This week’s newsletter is brought to you by Mihir Shah , #ZNetwork’s Online Advertisement Specialist from India, now based in Berlin, Germany! ????
Let Mihir guide you through this week’s Zeitgeist News. Get ready to dive in and enjoy the journey!?
Why We’re Still Stuck on X?????
At the 2024 #EUinfluencer event, Theresa Fallon shared insights on why so many of us just can’t seem to quit X, even with all the controversy surrounding it. This idea, known as “path dependency”, explains why people still call it 'Twitter' and keep coming back, no matter how its policy changes.?
Path dependency explains why users remain loyal to X despite frustrations. Familiarity, the platform's role as a modern clipping tool, and established connections make it difficult for many to switch. As Theresa Fallon noted, these patterns are sticky, keeping users engaged even when alternatives emerge.?
However, a significant exodus is underway as dissatisfaction with misinformation and toxic interactions grows. Over a million new users have joined Bluesky since the U.S. elections, including public figures and activists, drawn to its customizable algorithms and anti-toxicity features.?
So, as X keeps changing, we’re left wondering: are we using X because it’s truly useful, or are we just stuck in a habit we can’t break??
?? Watch the full video below!?
Spotlight on the 2024 European Elections: A Turning Point for the EU??
The 2024 EU elections underscored a growing fragmentation in European politics, with far-right parties gaining influence as economic and geopolitical challenges took precedence over climate priorities. This, interestingly, is the inverse of Theresa Fallon’s concept of “path dependency” from the #EUinfluencer event, where she explained how familiar patterns keep people tied to systems—even flawed ones.
Understanding how to make your voice heard is key, now more than ever, and you need an effective strategy to do just that. We have crafted the perfect plan, download your free copy of our Post-EU Elections toolkit now!???
How AI Rewrites the Rules of Communication ?????
Mihir Shah , Advertisement Specialist, chatted with us on how to harness AI’s superpowers while keeping the human touch alive when creating the optimal data-driven communication strategy. Here’s the gist:?
?? Quick Tip: Keep the bigger picture in mind—align each campaign with your brand story to build a lasting, cohesive narrative.?
#ZNLive with Alberto Alemanno Tomorrow!?
Join us tomorrow at 2 pm for a chat with Alberto Alemanno . We'll discuss the future of public interest advocacy in the EU, ways citizens can actively shape policy, and Alberto's journey in democratizing lobbying.?Tune in right here!?
Is Legacy Media Dead??
On last week’s #ZNLive, hosts Philip Weiss and Irem Turkay Ates were joined by journalist and #EUinfluencer Gerardo Fortuna to dive into the differences between legacy and new media. From Elon Musk’s X to DJ-style journalism, they explored how digital innovation is transforming communication in the EU bubble.?
?? Key Takeaways:?
?? Legacy media continues to be a cornerstone of traditional reporting in Brussels, even as digital platforms reshape global communication dynamics.?
??? The dominance of X remains unparalleled in the EU bubble, with its real-time updates used by policymakers and journalists alike—though algorithm bias raises critical concerns.?
?? Social media innovation is thriving, with MEPs using Instagram reels and TikToks to captivate younger audiences, proving that creativity can make EU politics more relatable.?
?? Gerardo’s Pro Tip:?
“Think like a DJ. Curate compelling stories and adapt them for each platform. Journalism isn’t just about reporting; it’s about connecting the dots for your audience.”?
Check out our Highlight Post for more! ?
How Digital Influencing Shapes EU Policy?
If you’re curious about how digital influencing shapes EU policy discussions, this podcast episode is one to bookmark. In the latest episode of The Brussels Report podcast, host and #EUinfluencer Pieter Cleppe and our CEO Philip Weiss explore strategies behind impactful communication at the EU policy level. ?
Phil breaks down how digital platforms are used to influence decision-making, navigate complex narratives, and reach key stakeholders. Whether you’re a seasoned professional or new to the field, Phil’s insights offer a clear view of how to leverage communication for meaningful change. Don’t miss it.?
From X to Bluesky: The Search for Transparency and Control?
In the aftermath of Donald Trump’s presidential victory, debates have been reignited over the influence of social media on political outcomes, with X under Elon Musk taking center stage. Critics, including The European Correspondent, have highlighted concerns about the platform’s algorithmic bias and content moderation failures. Check out the post here.?
As trust in X continues to erode, Bluesky seems to be emerging as a compelling alternative, offering transparency and user control that resonate with policymakers and communicators in Europe. Pablo Pérez Armenteros emphasizes the platform's innovative algorithmic customization, which could transform the way public discourse is shaped. Read more here.?
With trust in centralized platforms declining, could Bluesky pave the way for a new era in how the EU connects with its citizens online??
?? Boost Your Brand with a Social Media Audit! ???
Is your social media presence truly aligned with your brand’s goals? ?
Our free e-book guides you on how to dive deep into understanding your online channels, assessing everything from content effectiveness to audience engagement and competitive positioning.?
This tailored analysis uncovers what’s working, what’s not, and how you can enhance your strategy to stand out. Let us help you turn insights into actionable steps that boost your brand’s impact and engagement across platforms!?Download your free copy?here!?
USA, Elon Musk and What is Next?
Elon Musk may be shaping the next form of US tech regulation, but across the Atlantic, the spotlight is still on Europe and its push to wield greater control over emerging technologies. As outlined by POLITICO, Europe is positioning itself as a global leader in multiple tech fields by reducing its reliance on external powers like the US and China. This vision of becoming a technological powerhouse aligns with Musk’s ethos of innovation but raises the question—can Europe’s regulatory framework balance security with competitiveness in the global tech race?
Read more here.??
The Guardian’s Exit from X: A Turning Point in Digital Communication??
Following the Guardian’s decision to stop posting on X, our CEO Philip Weiss shared insights on what this means for the platform’s future. With Donald Trump’s recent election win, X faces new challenges and opportunities as it evolves under heightened scrutiny. Will Trump’s presence amplify X’s influence, or will it push more voices to leave? Explore Phil’s take and join the discussion on his LinkedIn post. ?
Read the full story here ??
Meet the #ZNetwork?
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Mihir Shah is a globe-trotting professional, with roots in India. Though officially residing in Berlin, he has spent the past four years traveling and working remotely across various countries. When not immersed in his professional pursuits, Mihir’s adventurous spirit shines through—he earned his paragliding license before even getting his driving license and he also learned how to swim all in the same year. A fan of reggaeton, he loves to dance to its vibrant beats, and for a touch of nostalgia, he often re-watches the Harry Potter series.?
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Project Coordinator at ZN | Freelance Copywriter | Seeking Global Remote Opportunities
1 周Over the past few months, I’ve been posting less and less on X. Ever since Musk made the platform uninhabitable—nerfing the block function and tuning the algorithm to cater to far-right-leaning accounts—I’ve found much-needed refuge on BlueSky and Threads. Honestly, the algorithm on both has been working way better for me than X ever did. X feels like a nicotine addiction that’s hard to kick. While it’s losing steam, we’ve yet to see a full-scale exodus of EU personalities. These are fascinating times, and it’ll be intriguing to watch how these platforms adapt to such rapid, almost chaotic, change!