Users and brands ditch lighthearted approaches for real-life conversations
Implications - A growing movement is observed of people using online outlets as a means of connecting with others on important issues, whether negative or positive. Reintroducing the social aspect back into social media, users are no longer satisfied with light and airy interaction, but rather crave a realistic approach by peers and brands to have their thoughts and feelings discussed. Brands that can relate consumers on a genuine, unanimous level will ultimately connect on a deeper emotional level with consumers.
Trend Themes
1. Realistic Social Media Dialogue - Social media users crave real and genuine communication with peers and brands, leading to the end of light and airy interaction.
2. Private Social Media Memorials - As death is a touchy subject on social media, new Facebook app 'Sanctri' allows page administrators to create private virtual platforms to mourn the loss of a loved one.
3. Selfies as Political Protests - In the wake of tragic events, selfies have emerged as a powerful social media platform for instigating political change (#notamartyr selfie protest in Lebanon).
Industry Implications
1. Social Media - Incorporating a thoughtful and empathetic communication strategy into social media policies for businesses in order to more meaningfully engage with consumers.
2. Virtual and Augmented Reality - Creating engaging virtual or augmented reality experiences to help people deal with emotional processes like mourning.
3. Film and TV - Developing groundbreaking short films or television shows that use simple ideas to explore complex emotional experiences.
4 Featured, 36 Examples:
301,150 Total Clicks
Date Range:
Nov 13 — May 14
Trending:
Average
Consumer Insight Topics:
