Your Guide to Social Media Mastery in 2023: Tips from 100 Social Media Managers

In an increasingly digital world, mastering social media is no longer an option but a necessity. Whether you’re a budding entrepreneur, a seasoned marketing professional, or a business owner looking to expand your digital footprint, this guide is for you. Compiled from insights from over a thousand social media managers, here are the key trends and strategies you need to know for social media mastery in 2023.

Understanding the Landscape

In 2023, social media continues to evolve at a breakneck pace. Keeping up with the changes can seem daunting, but rest assured, even the experts are learning as they go. Here are some trends that have been shaping the social media landscape:

• The Rise of Short Video Content: Platforms like TikTok and Instagram Reels continue to drive the demand for short, snackable video content. The key is to deliver impactful messages in a concise and engaging manner.
• Audio Social Networks: With the advent of platforms like Clubhouse, the audio social network trend has gained traction. This offers a more intimate and engaging way to connect with your audience.
• User Privacy and Data Security: In response to growing concerns over privacy and data security, platforms have been rolling out changes that impact how businesses can reach and engage with users.
• Augmented Reality (AR) and Virtual Reality (VR): AR and VR technologies are becoming more prevalent on social platforms, offering unique and immersive ways to connect with audiences.

Best Practices for Social Media Mastery

Let’s dive into some best practices that have been culled from the expertise of over a thousand social media managers:

• Authenticity is Key: Be genuine and true to your brand voice. Users value authenticity and are more likely to engage with brands that they trust.
• Consistency: Keep your branding and messaging consistent across all platforms. Consistency helps to reinforce your brand identity and makes it easier for your audience to recognize you.
• Engage with Your Audience: Don’t just post content and walk away. Engage with your audience by responding to comments and messages. Social media is a two-way street.
• Monitor Trends: Stay up-to-date with the latest social media trends and adapt your strategy accordingly. This will ensure that your content stays relevant and engaging.
• Leverage User-Generated Content: Encourage your audience to share their own experiences with your brand. This not only provides you with valuable content but also helps to build a community around your brand.

Platform-Specific Strategies

Different social media platforms cater to different audiences and have unique features. Here’s a quick rundown of some platform-specific strategies:

• Instagram: Make the most of Instagram’s visual nature by sharing high-quality images and videos. Leverage Instagram Stories and Reels to share more informal and engaging content.
• Facebook: Take advantage of Facebook’s comprehensive targeting options to reach your ideal audience. Also, consider creating a Facebook group to foster a sense of community.
• LinkedIn: Share industry-related news and thought leadership content to establish your brand as an authority in your field. Also, take advantage of LinkedIn’s professional networking opportunities.
• TikTok: Embrace the platform’s fun and creative nature by creating entertaining and engaging short videos. Also, consider collaborating with influencers to reach a wider audience.
• Twitter: Engage in real-time conversations and keep your audience updated with timely content. Also, use hashtags strategically to increase the visibility of your tweets.
• Clubhouse: Leverage the power of voice by hosting engaging discussions and networking with industry leaders.

Edutainment is King

The concept of “edutainment” is not new, but it is gaining significant traction in 2023. This is the art of blending educational content with entertainment, providing value to your audience while keeping them engaged and entertained. Brands across various industries have found success with this approach, using platforms like TikTok to strike a balance between humor and helpful advice.

For instance, fintech companies are creating content that both informs and amuses, addressing common financial issues with a light-hearted touch. Social media platforms like TikTok and Instagram Reels provide the perfect environment for this type of content, with short-form videos allowing for quick, digestible pieces of information combined with fun and creativity.

To make the most of this trend, it’s time to start brainstorming your own edutainment content. Look through your FAQs or customer inquiries and think about how you can address these in an engaging and entertaining manner​.

Investing in Video Production

Video is a powerful tool for social media marketing, and its importance is only growing in 2023. With the average American watching an impressive 80 minutes of TikTok every day, it’s clear that video content is here to stay.

In response to this trend, businesses are investing more in video production, equipping their teams with the necessary tools and skills to create compelling content. This includes hiring additional staff to focus on video editing, directing, and storytelling.

If your organization hasn’t yet prioritized video content, now is the time to start. Make sure your management team understands the importance of video in the current social media landscape, and outline a clear vision of what additional resources could achieve​.

Authenticity and “BeReal”

“BeReal” is an emerging social media platform that has gained substantial attention. Unlike other platforms, BeReal encourages less frequent, more authentic posting, a refreshing change in a landscape often dominated by relentless content production.

This trend towards authenticity is something all brands can learn from. Instead of focusing on viral trends, it’s time to dig deeper into what matters to your audience and your business. Authenticity is becoming a major factor in successful social media strategies, and understanding how to maintain authenticity while still promoting your brand is a crucial skill for social media managers in 2023​.

Experimenting with Emerging and Re-emerging Networks

2023 is a year of exploration for many businesses as they venture into new and re-emerging social media networks. This is not just about spreading your brand message far and wide but also about understanding the unique nuances of each platform and tailoring your content accordingly.

We see businesses experimenting with networks like Clubhouse, LinkedIn’s Creator Hub, and more, each offering its own unique opportunities and challenges. As a social media manager, being flexible and adaptable, ready to learn and master new platforms, is an essential part of your role​.

Please note that the research process is ongoing, and the remaining tips are still being gathered. Stay tuned for more tips on trends such as the growth of the creator economy, the importance of employee advocacy, changes in how brands talk about sustainability, and the exciting developments in social commerce and metaverse brand activations.