Consumer Insights > Social Media

Implications - A common online ritual, fans of various products and services have been filming their unboxing experiences for a while now. With the proliferation of new technology and online engagement, we’re seeing a shift in this realm with more immersive, high-tech unboxing experiences. From the use of AR technology to voice-activated features, consumers and brands are getting in on the action to create more interactive, multisensory versions of traditional unboxing activities. This speaks to the familiarity around socializing products but in a way that is much more interactive in nature. [More]

Implications - Online influencers continue to evolve with emerging platforms and forms of content creation, and with that, we’re seeing a shift toward more digitally animated personas. From Instagram starlets to YouTube vloggers, influencers are emerging not in the form of young Millennials or Gen Z, but digitally created animations that evoke nostalgia and familiarity in their cartoonish form. Not only meant to attract younger audiences, these inanimate, digital creations allow for more playful storytelling techniques as way to present content in a new light. [More]

Implications - Popular social platforms are tapping into the online dating realm with new features and integrations that allow users to find their romantic connections. As consumers seek out romantic engagements and connections online, social platforms that traditionally focus on social sharing and friendship are taking note and creating environments that are more inclusive of those looking for love. The integration of popular social platforms with dating app features not only speaks to the popularity of seeking romantic connections online, but also the idea that users are looking for more all-inclusive platforms to do everything from posting their own life stories to finding the love of their life. [More]

Implications - As consumers turn to social media and online platforms for places to connect, more inclusive alternatives are arising to provide a greater sense of community and empowerment. Whether it be female-centric apps focusing on encouraging women to online platforms that provide a motivational outlet and guide for men, these digital communities are showcasing a desire for consumers to not only stay connected, but a desire for more inclusive, hyper-targeted mediums for expression. [More]

Implications - Though it's been shown that female teens are more likely to use social media than their male counterparts, the latter group still has relatively high rates of social platform usage and should be catered to by brands as such – something that brands are catching on to. By identifying specialized areas that are of concern to this less-tapped demographic via social media and shareable moments, brands are equalizing the social experience for Gen Z consumers. [More]

Implications - Understanding the power of influencers in the social media age, brands are accelerating the process of individuals becoming influencers by offering a variety of services that help them expand their followings and grow their personal brands. This shift comes as brands recognize the need to more authentically connect with Millennial and Gen Z consumers, on a more micro level. [More]

Implications - The Millennial generation is the largest in North American history; Trend Hunter splits the group into micro generations, identifying the 'Pro Millennial' as the oldest. The Pro Millennial uses social media more competitively than other Millennial groups as it entered into their lives during early adulthood when future planning was already a focus. Social media sites that enable milestone sharing appeal to this generation as they provide an opportunity to share more meaningful content they can be proud of. [More]

Implications - As meme culture continues to be an important part of the lifestyle habits of cohorts like Gen Z, brands are taking note and adapting those cultural references into real-world campaigns and product lines. Meme culture, and the satirical method of communication and humor that embodies it, is something that has become so frequently shared that it’s become it’s own form of communication. As such, brands are taking what was once only online humor and using it for inspiration for clothing lines and marketing campaigns. This showcases a desire from brands to not only connect with younger generations, but also tap into actual lifestyle habits of their consumers to create a more authentic brand experience. [More]

Implications - Social media giants have come under scrutiny for some years now as they increasingly become vessels for the spread of false information, the incitement of violence, for tech addiction and for negatively impacting mental health. Such scrutiny has resulted in small changes in the way these companies operate, some of which can go so far as to affect their bottom line by reducing the amount of time spent on their own services, or by inciting consumer backlash. Such initiatives aim to reduce the negativity that social media giants have done little to address in the past, as more consumers demand change. [More]

Implications - Up until this point, the formula for successful influencer marketing was fairly cut and dry; a person becomes an influencer by creating engaging content, gains brand partnerships, and monetizes content as an ambassador. This model is turned on its head with peer-to-peer funding platforms that enable fans to send money directly to content creators. The shift to a many-to-many model speaks to the true intended nature of social media influence, placing more focus on truly entertaining content than the influence or exposure of a third party. [More]