Social media networks are websites and applications that enable users to create, consume, and share content with a ‘network’ of connections. There is no denying that social media plays a gigantic role in the marketing world, especially given its significance and ever-increasing daily usage. With more than 2 billion social media users, its potential as a marketing channel speaks for itself. Unfortunately, its potential as an effective digital tool is misused as businesses continue to undervalue its chances of success. Most of the businesses do not realise the potential of social media as they do not get access to the social media reports on the industry analysis. These social media reports will tell you the how much money you are leaving on the table.
We have collated our top 5 social media reports to ensure you remain at the forefront of the newest trends and developments within the digital industry. Whether you’re a budding entrepreneur or working for an established corporation, our social media report selections contribute vital information about what your business should be doing on social media and how to construct an effective digital strategy.
Let's take a look at the list
1) Sensis Social Media Report 2016
"How Australian people and businesses are using social media"
The title says it all. Sensis releases a new social media every year, and now in it’s 6th year, the Sensis report has evolved into a key benchmarking tool providing crucial understanding for all business owners. The informal style of writing and the simple yet comprehensive infographics render it a pleasant and humble read. Compounded with detailed, widespread, and insightful content, the Sensis report is undeniably one of our favourite social media reports.
2) Social Media Impact Report (B2C Industry Edition 2016)
The Social Media Impact Report by TrackMaven specifically focuses on popular social media networks, which generate the most influence for consumers, and how a range of brands compare with industry standards. TrackMaven analysed 10 months of content from 213 leading B2C brands across 5 key social networks to provide a complete understanding of the impact of social media for B2C marketers. The report also presented several case studies to describe which social media platforms work best with specific audience segments.
3) Social Media Marketing Industry Report (2016 Edition)
Research report by Michael A. Stelzner, Published by Social Media Examiner
After surveying more than 5,000 marketers with the goal of understanding how they’re using social media to grow and promote their own businesses, Social Media Examiner revealed the ‘who’, ‘what’, ‘where’, ‘when’, and ‘why’ of social media marketing. The report also offers detailed insights of upcoming trends and niche social media networks such as video marketing and Snapchat, which will be rapidly growing in popularity in the upcoming years.
4) The State of Social Marketing (Social Media Report)
Research report by Kevin Shively & Lucy Hitz, Published by Simply Measured
The State of Social Marketing provides and overview of more than 350 world renowned brands and social marketing experts. Mainstream social media platforms are examined including their timelines, tips, and information on relevant audience segments. It’s the perfect report for social media marketing beginners.
5) The Fortune 500 Instagram Report
Instagram is one of the dominant platforms for companies wishing to promote themselves and spread brand awareness. This report focusses on Instagram providing insights into how to grow a large following and increase engagement rates. The Fortune 500 Instagram report ranks America’s largest companies by total revenue with an active presence of Instagram and offers a detailed understanding of their strategies which have been the driving forces behind their success. After learning from the biggest brands on Instagram such as Nike and Starbucks as well as acquiring knowledge on differing implementation methods for both B2B and B2C companies, what more could you ask for?
Final Note
This is the age of social media. There are millions of easily accessible applications, website, and other platforms for people around the world to communicate via the internet. The power of social media has proven to be a formidable friend (or foe) and when employed effectively can provide businesses and individuals with an enormous competitive advantage.
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