At least six out of ten people globally are active on social networks, representing a staggering 62.3% of the total population. This figure is set to rise, with projections estimating nearly six billion social media users by 2027. In Malaysia, 28.68 million people, or 83.1% of the population, have a social media identity, marking a 20% increase from the previous year.
As social media becomes an integral part of daily life, users spend an average of two hours online daily. Trends and challenges now spread rapidly, and the first half of 2024 has already shed light on key drivers and insights shaping social media’s trajectory. Let’s delve into some of these influential trends.
The AI Evolution in Influencer Marketing
Artificial Intelligence (AI) is revolutionizing the social media landscape, particularly in influencer marketing. Approximately 80% of marketers report that AI-based tools have enhanced efficiency by saving time in content creation, caption generation, idea curation, and backend tasks like post-scheduling and data analysis. Brands leveraging AI for customer insights and personalized engagement find that influencers must adapt to these technological advancements, utilizing AI tools to optimize their workflows.
Cross-Platform Consistency and Creator Specialization
To maximize reach and engagement, brands now prioritize following their favorite creators across multiple platforms. Influencers must establish a cohesive and compelling presence across various social media channels. Beyond being online personas, influencers are now specialized professionals carving out distinct niches. By promoting authenticity, credibility, and professionalism, influencers can elevate their personal brands and attract lucrative opportunities.
Influencers as Key Players
Influencers have become vital to affiliate programs, driving sales and building brand loyalty through their influence. Brands are shifting from one-off projects to long-term partnerships, allowing influencers to create content that resonates with their audiences and drives conversions. These ongoing collaborations foster deeper connections with followers, delivering consistent, genuine content that strengthens brand loyalty. Performance-based deals are also gaining traction as brands seek measurable results and influencers align with them to achieve tangible outcomes.
Centering Diversity and Representation
In a world full of diverse voices, social media must reflect this diversity. Brands and influencers should embrace inclusivity, ensuring all voices are genuinely represented. This approach goes beyond ticking boxes; it’s about real storytelling that includes different races, ethnicities, genders, sexual orientations, ages, and abilities. Championing diversity builds trust and loyalty, taps into new markets, and aligns with global ethical practices, ultimately boosting business success.
Also Read: The Rise of Retail Media Networks in Southeast Asia: Insights from Ken Mandel, Head of GrabAds
TikTok and the Rise of Short-Form Video
Short-form video content has become the preferred format for digital consumption, with 96% of consumers favoring it for its brevity and visual appeal. As the world accelerates, people have less time to engage with lengthy content. For influencers, this means mastering the art of crafting compelling narratives within brief time constraints to retain audience attention. Despite the challenge, short-form video offers higher engagement rates and competitive advantage in the fast-paced digital world.
As influencers navigate the dynamic social media landscape of 2024, they encounter a blend of opportunities and challenges. By embracing emerging trends, fostering authentic connections, and delivering value-driven content, influencers can confidently position themselves as trailblazers in the digital realm.
About Tinker Society
Tinker Society is a premier social media management company specializing in strategy, content creation, and training services for clients in Malaysia and beyond. As a leading digital marketing creator and executor, Tinker Society helps brands effectively reach their target audiences. The company also provides a versatile platform for influencers and brands to produce content that reflects their identity and message.
