Social Media Highlights from 2020
Catherine Reimers
When you hear the words ‘highlights’ and ‘2020’ mentioned in the same sentence, it might sound wrong. What is there really to look back on last year?
While most of us don’t even want to think about 2020 ever again, there are some things we can learn when it comes to social media.
Posting and interacting on social media required a lot more tact then normal during the pandemic, and with so many sensitive issues taking place, the ability to ‘read the room’ became more important than ever. During this time, there were also some big changes on the various social media platforms.
We’re taking a look at some key social media highlights in 2020 below.
Social E-commerce Boomed
With lockdowns in place, people weren’t able to or didn’t feel as comfortable shopping in stores or visiting shopping malls and opted to shop online and on social media instead. The major social media platforms made it easier than ever before to shop, with seamless in-app buying experiences such as Instagram and Facebook Shop, as well as TikTok’s in-app purchases. While lockdown restrictions might be easing, we believe that shopping on social media will continue.
The Rise of TikTok
If you hadn’t heard of TikTok at the start of 2020, you had probably heard of it by the end of the year.
Although it had its ups and downs, it emerged as one of the most downloaded social media apps of 2020, with both App Store and Google Play customers downloading the app almost 115 million times in March 2020 alone.
Brands are making more use of TikTok too, and this platform now has its very own influencers! If you haven’t checked it out yet, we’d suggest you do.
Social Media During Civil Disorder
One of the most memorable civil events that 2020 gave us was the Black Lives Matter movement. This global rally against racism, racial inequality and police brutality was at the forefront on social media. Many brands took to their social platforms to speak out about the issues at hand and to show their support for the Black communities.
The social media platforms themselves also did their part, with almost every platform sharing resourcing on supporting at-risk Black-owned businesses, how to hire Black content creators, how to be an authentic ally, and much more. What was evident was that consumers want brands to take a stand on important issues, such as this. You’ll just need to make sure you put careful thought into your messaging in order to communicate your standing point effectively.
You’ll just need to make sure you put careful thought into your messaging in order to communicate your standing point effectively.
We look forward to what 2021 one holds when it comes to social media and digital marketing. We’ve no doubt that it won’t be boring! Stay safe out there.