The Tectonic Shift: A World Without TikTok?
Imagine waking up tomorrow to find TikTok gone—vanished from your phone and the app store. It might sound like a nightmare, but very soon, it could become a reality. For millions, TikTok isn’t just an app; it’s a community, a stage, and a lucrative business platform. Now, as whispers of a ban turn into more serious discussions, we find ourselves on the brink of a significant shift. What will the social media landscape look like in a world without TikTok?
As a social media manager, I’ve been pondering the implications and talking about them a lot online. I received this comment in response to one of my videos on the subject: “If TikTok is banned, won’t Instagram simply take its place?” It’s a valid question, considering how Instagram has done its best to copy TikTok’s every move—from its user interface to video editing tools to video replies and more. However, despite its attempts to stay relevant and competitive with TikTok, Instagram still falls short in several critical areas. As we consider the nuances of a possible TikTok ban, I’ll share why I believe YouTube, rather than Instagram, could become the preferred platform for creators and audiences alike in a post-TikTok world.
The Power of Search: TikTok’s Ace in the Hole
One of the reasons TikTok has become so popular is because of its powerful search functionality. On TikTok, users can quickly find exactly what they’re looking for, whether it’s a specific video, sound, product, or trend. Instagram, while making improvements, is still miles behind in this department. On the other hand, YouTube offers a more sophisticated search engine that more closely rivals TikTok’s. For those accustomed to TikTok’s seamless search experience, YouTube stands out as a better alternative than Instagram.
The Rise of Long-Form Content
It’s no secret that long-form video content is on the rise. This is evident through TikTok’s recent launch of their Creativity Beta Program, which rewards creators for videos over a minute long, and their extension of video limits to 10 minutes. Despite these changes, Instagram still limits Reels to 90 seconds. In contrast, YouTube is the OG hub for long-form content, offering a platform that not only supports but also enhances longer video formats. As the demand for more comprehensive storytelling grows, YouTube is the clear choice for creators looking to engage their audience on a deeper level.
Monetization Matters
When it comes to earning income from their content, creators look for platforms that offer the best monetization possibilities. Instagram has made some strides, but it’s still playing catch-up compared to YouTube. YouTube’s monetization framework is well-established, providing creators with a variety of revenue streams, including ad revenue, channel memberships, and Super Chat in live streams, among others. As platforms evolve, YouTube’s comprehensive monetization options keep it at the forefront for creators serious about making a living from their content.
Staying Ahead of the Curve
At this point, TikTok’s fate remains unclear. However, one certainty in the ever-changing world of social media is that flexibility and adaptability are essential for success. By embracing YouTube now, you place yourself where engaged audiences are thriving, regardless of what happens with TikTok. Creators currently not active on YouTube are overlooking a platform with opportunities that Instagram simply does not have.
The Way Forward
Our advice? Secure your YouTube handle and start adapting your content for the platform now. Don’t just keep pace with the evolving social media landscape—stay ahead of the curve. Be where the future of content creation is already unfolding.
This post originally appeared on the Strella Social Media blog.
Navigating the LinkedIn Landscape: Thoughtful Engagement
There are different kinds of people on LinkedIn, and so are their ways of networking, engaging, and creating content on it. Some people are experts at scrolling—they read your content but do not engage. Some engage and react to your post, giving you that little boost in life. While some comment—all sorts of comments.
Those comments confuse me sometimes. There are times when I am stuck with “what-to-write” thoughts when I want to comment on a post. Like, I genuinely like the individual or organization, but how professional and insightful things have become on LinkedIn is a bit tricky.
For instance, I have seen A’s post on 3 tips to do so-and-so, and B commented on it—appreciating what A has written, sharing what B feels, and also asking a question in return as well, maybe to strike a conversation, maybe to build a network, maybe to sound insightful, and maybe to follow the LinkedIn algorithm.
Meanwhile, there are some professionals with incredible things to share, and their posts are very raw and real, with, of course, many genuine connections and their comments on the post, which gladdens my heart.
I like genuine comments—filled with wisdom, understanding, and conscious choices. I know that it is an individual perspective and taste, but the more I navigate, the more thoughts are processed. Probably because I have been guided by certain principles where one needs to be conscious of the choices they make, the words they use, the spaces they engage in, and their manner.
The Baha’i Writings state, “Not everything that a man knoweth can be disclosed, nor can everything that he can disclose be regarded as timely, nor can every timely utterance be considered as suited to the capacity those who hear it.” And I have pretty much incorporated this wisdom into my work ethics, especially in terms of content development.
Finding Your Authentic Voice on LinkedIn
Absolutely, LinkedIn can be a bit of a balancing act when it comes to networking and engaging with posts and leaving thoughtful comments. It’s important to remember that everyone approaches social media platforms, including LinkedIn, in their own unique way.
I am not here to give tips, but to share some of my insights gained over a period of time:
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Just like in real life, authenticity is crucial on LinkedIn. Be yourself and share genuine thoughts. Authenticity shines through and helps build meaningful connections.
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If you genuinely liked a post or are supportive of an individual or organization, express that positivity. Highlight specific aspects of the post that resonated with you, whether it’s a key point, a success story, or an interesting perspective.
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If the post triggered a thought or memory related to your own experiences or knowledge, consider sharing that. Your personal insights can contribute to the conversation and add depth to the discussion.
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If you’re unsure about what to write, asking relevant and thoughtful questions can be a great way to engage. This not only shows your interest but also encourages the author and other commenters to elaborate on the topic.
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If appropriate, you can offer constructive feedback that adds value to the discussion. Make sure your feedback is respectful and well-intentioned.
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While LinkedIn is a social platform, it’s primarily used for professional networking. Keep your comments respectful, positive, and focused on the topic at hand.
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It’s not about commenting on every post, but about providing meaningful insights when you do comment. Quality comments are more valuable than a high quantity of generic responses.
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LinkedIn, like any social space, hosts a variety of perspectives. It’s perfectly fine to have differing opinions, but ensure your comments remain respectful and contribute constructively to the conversation.
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Remember that everyone has their own communication style and comfort level on social media. Some people might express themselves more formally, while others might be more casual. Embrace this diversity and show empathy toward various communication styles.
In essence, LinkedIn is indeed a microcosm of the larger world. People here come from diverse backgrounds, have different communication styles, and approach networking and engagement in their own ways. The key is to find your own authentic voice, stay true to your values, and contribute positively to the platform.
By embracing the uniqueness of individuals and their contributions, we are fostering a more inclusive and vibrant LinkedIn community. It is to remember that the beauty of networking lies in the diversity of thoughts and experiences that each individual brings to the table.
