Google Who? Social Media is King

Remember when "Google it" was the go-to advice for finding anything? Well, move over Google! Gen Z is now turning to Instagram and TikTok when they need local recommendations. A recent study of 1,002 U.S. consumers found that Google is now the third choice for 18 to 24-year-olds. It's a game-changer for businesses trying to catch the eyes of younger customers.

Key Insights

1. Social Media Reigns Supreme for Gen Z

• Instagram: 67% of Gen Z (ages 18-24) use Instagram to search.

• TikTok: 62% of this demographic rely on TikTok.

• Google: Falls to third place with 61% of Gen Z using it.

2. Social Search is Growing Across All Ages

• Facebook: Still a key player, especially among older generations.

• Snapchat: 45% of Gen Z use it for local searches.

• YouTube and Google Images: Important for search, capturing a significant share of global searches.

3. The Changing Search Landscape Social media isn’t just for socializing anymore; it’s the new way people discover local businesses and products.

How to Turn This to Your Advantage

1. Shine on Social Media

• Post Regularly: Share engaging, fun, and relevant content on Instagram, TikTok, and Facebook.

• Eye-Catching Visuals: Invest in great photos and videos to make your posts pop.

2. Optimize Your Content

• Keywords and Hashtags: Use the right keywords and trending hashtags in your posts and captions.

• Location Tags: Tag your posts with your location to attract local customers.

3. Engage with Your Followers

• Be Responsive: Answer comments and messages promptly to show you care.

• Influencer Collaborations: Partner with local influencers to extend your reach and build credibility.

4. Stay Ahead of Trends

• Keep Up-to-Date: Follow social media trends and tweak your strategy as needed.

• Analyze Your Performance: Use analytics to see what works and what doesn’t.

Social media is quickly becoming the go-to for search, especially among younger generations. For your small business, this means having a strong social media presence is more important than ever. By staying active, engaging, and up-to-date with trends, you can attract and retain customers in this new digital age.

Feeling overwhelmed by the fast-paced world of social media? Don’t worry, I’m here to help! Email me, and let's make your business shine online. Contact me today and let’s get started on transforming your social media presence!