Instagram: The Visual Revolution Continues

First, we have Instagram, which is probably the most used platform at the moment. This social media giat is refining its image-centric platform with these two changes:

Enhanced IGTV Experience with AI Recommendations

Leveraging the power of AI, Instagram will tailor content suggestions based on individual preferences. What’s more, understanding the significance of optimal Instagram posting times, we’ve curated a comprehensive guide to help you maximize your reach and engagement.

Augmented Reality Shopping Experiences

Imagine trying on products virtually, right from the comfort of your home, or visualizing how furniture fits into your living space before making a purchase. No more trips to the store – isn’t that just awesome?

Well, with AR, Instagram is turning shopping into a visually immersive adventure, where users can interact with products in real-time, making informed decisions.

From apparel to home decor, this feature promises a new era of interactive and engaging online shopping, where the boundaries between imagination and reality fade away.

Facebook: New Features and Enhanced User Experience

Facebook is set to roll out a series of modifications and enhancements that promise to redefine the way we engage with content, businesses, and each other.

Here are the two main ones:

AR-Powered Content Creation Tools

One of the most exciting developments on the horizon is the integration of Augmented Reality (AR) into content creation tools.

Just imagine adding a touch of magic to your photos and videos, and then enhancing them with interactive elements that respond to the user’s environment? Sounds awesome, right?

Well, Facebook’s AR-powered content creation tools are designed to unleash this creativity, allowing you to create unimaginable experiences that blur the line between the virtual and real worlds.

Enhanced E-commerce Integrations and Virtual Shops

Apart from its extraordinary AR-powered content, Facebook is set to elevate the shopping experience with enhanced e-commerce integrations and the introduction of virtual shops.

Businesses will now have the opportunity to create online storefronts for their customers within the Facebook platform, providing them with a seamless browsing and purchasing journey.

With secure payment gateways and personalized recommendations to top it all off, Facebook’s enhanced e-commerce integrations are poised to revolutionize the way we shop online!

Twitter: Beyond 280 Characters

Twitter, the platform that redefined brevity, is gearing up for a significant transformation in 2023.

Beyond its iconic 280-character limit, Twitter is set to introduce a myriad of changes and augmented features, reshaping the way users engage with tweets and conversations.

Enhancements in Audio Engagement

Twitter’s innovation extends beyond text with the evolution of ‘Spaces,’ an audio-based feature that enables real-time conversations in a virtual space. In 2023, Twitter is enhancing the Spaces experience, making it more interactive and engaging than ever before.

Users can join live audio discussions, participate in Q&A sessions, or even host virtual events, fostering authentic connections in the digital realm. With Spaces, Twitter is amplifying voices, enabling discussions that transcend boundaries, and creating a dynamic platform for meaningful conversations.

Advanced Tweet Analytics for Brands

For brands and businesses, Twitter is rolling out Advanced Tweet Analytics, providing invaluable insights into tweet performance and audience engagement. With detailed metrics and analytics, brands can now understand the impact of their tweets, measure audience sentiment, and refine their content strategies accordingly.

From reach and impressions to audience demographics, this feature equips brands with the tools they need to create compelling, targeted content that resonates with their audience. By harnessing the power of data-driven decision-making, brands can optimize their Twitter presence, ensuring their messages reach the right audience at the right time.

TikTok: The Next Phase of Short-Form Content

TikTok is meticulously crafting its path forward, ensuring it maintains its dominant position in the ever-changing landscape of social media.

Advanced Content Creation Tools and Filters

In 2023, the platform is set to introduce a slew of Advanced Content Creation Tools and Filters, empowering users to unleash their imagination like never before.

Imagine seamlessly integrating special effects, augmented reality elements, and dynamic filters into your videos with a few taps.

TikTok’s new suite of creative tools will enable users to produce visually stunning and captivating content effortlessly.

From immersive backgrounds to interactive elements, these features will transform ordinary moments into extraordinary, shareable experiences. Whether you’re a budding creator or an experienced influencer, these tools will elevate your storytelling, making your TikTok creations more engaging, vibrant, and innovative.

E-commerce and Brand Collaborations Enhancement

In 2023, brands and creators will have unprecedented opportunities to collaborate, creating a seamless shopping experience for users.

TikTok’s enhanced e-commerce integrations will allow brands to showcase their products directly within the app.

Additionally, brand collaborations will reach new heights, with creators and influencers seamlessly integrating products into their content, making recommendations, and engaging with their audience in authentic ways.

Conclusion: Embracing a New Era of Social Media

In 2023, social media platforms like Facebook, Instagram, TikTok, and Twitter promiss a wave of transformative innovations across platforms. From augmented reality experiences to advanced content creation tools, each platform is gearing up to redefine our digital interactions.

It’s important to remember that embracing these innovations isn’t merely an option; it’s a necessity. The ability to engage with augmented reality, seamless e-commerce, and immersive content creation isn’t just a trend; it’s the future of online interaction.

All in all, by understanding and harnessing these advancements, we’re not just adapting; we’re thriving in this new era of social media!

Featured and internal images provided by Solen Feyissa, Souvik Banerjee, Timothy Hales Bennett, Swello, and Souvik Banerjee; Unsplash; Thanks!

The post Big Changes Coming Soon: Social Media Updates in 2023 appeared first on The Blog Herald.

Australia’s Requirements Are Comparable

Regulations in Malaysia are being proposed that are expected to be similar to those in Australia. Australia passed a law in 2021 mandating that search engines like Google and Meta pay publishers for content that drives traffic and advertising revenue. This action was taken to ensure that news content creators would be fairly compensated, as there is currently an income disparity between digital platforms and local media. To foster a more equitable digital landscape, Malaysia plans to follow suit.

Bill C-11 of Canada as an Example

Malaysia is considering enacting legislation similar to Canada’s Bill C-11, which itself was modeled after Australian law. Streaming services in Canada would be subject to new regulations under this proposed legislation. By enacting some of the provisions of this bill, Malaysia hopes to promote and protect Malaysian content online.

Dealing with Disparities and Cyberbullying

Talks between the MCMC and Google and Meta have gone beyond payments to news organizations. Problems like online gambling, financial scams, and sexually explicit content for children are also being addressed. These talks demonstrate the Malaysian government’s dedication to securing the internet and shielding its people from cybercrime.

More Careful Examination of Online Material

Since Prime Minister Anwar Ibrahim took office in November, Malaysia has paid more attention to what it posts online. The government has been trying to figure out how to make online services responsible for the content users post. Earlier this year, the government of Malaysia threatened to sue Meta for failing to remove harmful content from Facebook. Malaysia considered taking legal action, but decided against it after talks with the company.

Finding a Middle Ground

Regulations being considered in Malaysia are an attempt to strike a middle ground between the wants of tech companies and the needs of the press. Malaysia’s goal in mandating payment for news articles is to give media outlets a stable source of income that is both fair and sustainable. The strategy is based on the belief that news content is valuable and should be safeguarded for future production and distribution in the digital age.

In summary, the government of Malaysia is attempting to address income disparities and promote fair compensation for news content creators by considering the implementation of regulations that would require Google, Meta, and other online platforms to compensate news outlets for sourced content. Malaysia is working to establish a regulatory framework that promotes a more equitable digital landscape, and it is taking cues from Australia’s regulations and Canada’s Bill C-11. Discussions center on compensating news organizations as well as protecting citizens from digital exploitation in its many forms. These actions show Malaysia’s dedication to creating a more peaceful and secure virtual space for all users.

See first source: Reuters

FAQ

1. What is the purpose of the proposed regulations in Malaysia regarding compensation from tech giants like Google and Meta?

The proposed regulations aim to ensure that tech giants compensate news organizations for using their content. This move is intended to address income disparities between digital platforms and local media and create a more equitable digital landscape.

2. How do these regulations compare to those in Australia?

The regulations in Malaysia are expected to be similar to those in Australia. Australia passed a law in 2021 that mandates compensation by search engines like Google and Meta to publishers for content that generates traffic and advertising revenue.

3. Are there any legislative examples being considered by Malaysia for these regulations?

Yes, Malaysia is considering enacting legislation similar to Canada’s Bill C-11, which was modeled after Australian law. This legislation primarily focuses on regulating streaming services in Canada.

4. What are some of the other issues being discussed in talks between the Malaysian Communications and Multimedia Commission (MCMC) and tech companies like Google and Meta?

In addition to compensation for news organizations, discussions also cover issues such as online gambling, financial scams, and explicit content for children. The Malaysian government is dedicated to addressing various aspects of online content and cybersecurity.

5. How does Malaysia aim to balance the interests of tech companies and the needs of the press in these regulations?

Malaysia’s goal is to strike a middle ground by mandating payment for news articles to provide media outlets with a stable and fair source of income. The regulations aim to recognize the value of news content and ensure its sustainability in the digital age.

Featured Image Credit: Dima Solomin; Unsplash – Thank you!

The post Meta To Pay News Outlets For Content appeared first on The Blog Herald.

In a video shared by Believe Me, I Already Ate, we witness the food blogger placing the order for the colossal burger at Burger King Thailand. The dedicated staff at the fast food chain assembled the monstrosity with precision and care. As the burger was presented to the blogger, its massive size posed a challenge for him to handle on his own. However, the helpful staff stepped in, offering support so that he could take bites from the towering creation.

The viral video quickly captivated audiences, drawing attention to the extraordinary feat. Netizens flooded social media platforms with comments and reactions, showcasing their amazement and curiosity. One user humorously remarked, “He must have 6 hands like Ashura to be able to hold and eat easily.” Another user eagerly asked, “Let me see all the layers in one bite.” The sheer magnitude of the burger prompted questions about the best approach to tackle such a culinary behemoth. “Why don’t you grab one piece at a time?” pondered an inquisitive viewer. Amidst the comments, one sentiment prevailed – the burger appeared undeniably delicious.

Despite his valiant effort, Believe Me, I Already Ate could not conquer the entire burger. However, the leftover patties did not go to waste. In a display of culinary creativity, the resourceful food blogger transformed the surplus meat patties into a delectable stir-fry dish. This ingenious solution ensured that no part of the monstrous burger went uneaten.

Burger King Thailand‘s real meat burger is not for the faint of heart or the light of wallet. The basic version, consisting of three beef patties, is priced at 339 baht (approximately Rs 815). For those with an insatiable appetite, additional patties can be added at a cost of 100 baht (approximately Rs 240) per patty. This pricing structure allows customers to customize their burger experience, tailoring it to their desired level of epicness.

It all began as a joke. Burger King Thailand initially shared the post featuring the real meat burger as part of a series of playful ideas. Alongside the Real Cheese Burger and a variety of unconventional toppings, such as pickle, tomato, onion, and lettuce, the real meat burger was presented with a hint of irony. However, social media users quickly latched onto the idea, demanding the creation become a reality. To the surprise of many, Burger King Thailand listened to their audience and decided to bring the real meat burger to life.

FAQ

Q: How many patties does the basic real meat burger come with? The basic real meat burger includes three beef patties.

Q: How much does the basic real meat burger cost? The basic real meat burger is priced at 339 baht (approximately Rs 815).

Q: Can additional patties be added to the real meat burger? Yes, customers can add as many extra patties as they desire, with each one costing 100 baht (approximately Rs 240).

Q: Is the real meat burger available outside of Thailand? No, currently, the real meat burger is exclusively available in Thailand.

Q: What did the food blogger do with the leftover patties? The food blogger repurposed the leftover patties into a delicious stir-fry dish.

Q: How many views did the viral video of the burger challenge amass? The viral video of the burger challenge garnered an impressive 6 lakh views.

The daring exploits of food bloggers continue to captivate audiences worldwide. The epic burger challenge undertaken by Thai food blogger Believe Me, I Already Ate is a testament to the audacity and limitless culinary adventures that unfold in the blogosphere. As the video of this monstrous creation gained viral status, it incited widespread curiosity and admiration. Burger King Thailand’s decision to turn a playful joke into a reality showcases the power of social media and the influence of passionate food enthusiasts. While the real meat burger may be exclusive to Thailand, its legend and the ingenuity of the food blogger who dared to tackle it will surely leave a lasting impression on the world of gastronomy.

First reported by News18.

The post Food Blogger Takes on the Ultimate Burger Challenge: 100 Meat Patties appeared first on The Blog Herald.

Oluseye Oladejo and Dr. Oluwatoyin Oladejo asserted that they were defamed in videos allegedly posted on Facebook by Kudirat Adunni Alowonle following their wedding in Lagos, Nigeria, in June. The videos contained false and defamatory comments that damaged their reputations and characters. Seeking legal remedies, the couple requested the removal of the videos and an injunction to prevent further publication of defamatory material by the defendant.

Represented by Gerard Martin Byrne BL, instructed by Geoffery Nwadike of GN & Co Solicitors, Oluseye Oladejo and Dr. Oluwatoyin Oladejo initiated High Court proceedings against Kudirat Adunni Alowonle. They sought an injunction to compel the defendant to remove the alleged defamatory videos, requested the court to prohibit further publication of defamatory content, demanded a correction to be published, and asked for information about the sharing of the videos. The court granted permission for the short notice of the injunction proceedings to be served on the defendant.

During the latest court hearing, it was disclosed that the matter had been resolved. The defendant voluntarily removed the videos and issued an apology to Oluseye Oladejo and Dr. Oluwatoyin Oladejo. Consequently, the injunction proceedings were no longer required and were struck out by the court. While the defendant did not appear in court or make any representations, the resolution signifies the end of the legal dispute.

Oluseye Oladejo, known as ‘Hon Seye,’ is a respected spokesperson for the APC political party in the Lagos area of Nigeria, having held several important administrative positions in his political career. Dr. Oluwatoyin Oladejo, also known as ‘Dr. Tee,’ is a psychiatric medical practitioner based in Texas, USA, with dual citizenship in the United States and Nigeria. The alleged defamation occurred shortly after their wedding.

Defamation is a serious matter with severe consequences, as false statements can harm a person’s reputation, character, and livelihood. Promptly addressing such allegations and seeking legal remedies when necessary is crucial.

The resolution reached between the plaintiffs and the defendant underscores the importance of seeking amicable solutions to legal disputes. Voluntarily removing the defamatory videos and issuing an apology demonstrates a willingness to rectify the harm caused. Negotiation and settlement save time, money, and stress associated with prolonged litigation, allowing individuals to focus on their personal and professional endeavors.

The settlement of the defamation lawsuit between Oluseye Oladejo, Dr. Oluwatoyin Oladejo, and Kudirat Adunni Alowonle marks the conclusion of the legal proceedings. Alleging defamation through social media videos, the couple successfully resolved the matter after the defendant removed the videos and issued an apology. This outcome emphasizes the significance of seeking amicable solutions in legal disputes to save time and resources. Defamation can have lasting effects, making it essential to promptly address such allegations and seek appropriate legal remedies when required.

FAQ

Q: What is defamation? A: Defamation refers to the act of making false statements about someone that harm their reputation and character.

Q: What legal remedies did Oluseye Oladejo and Dr. Oluwatoyin Oladejo seek? A: The plaintiffs sought an injunction to remove the alleged defamatory videos, a prohibition on the defendant from publishing further defamatory material, a correction to be published by the defendant, and information on who the defendant shared the videos with.

Q: What is the significance of resolving legal disputes amicably? A: Resolving legal disputes through negotiation and settlement can save time, money, and stress associated with prolonged litigation. It allows the parties involved to move forward and focus on their personal and professional endeavors.

Q: What are the consequences of defamation? A: Defamation can have severe consequences, including damage to a person’s reputation, character, and livelihood.

Q: What does the settlement of this case signify? A: The settlement signifies the resolution of the defamation lawsuit between the plaintiffs and the defendant, as the defendant voluntarily took down the videos and issued an apology.

Q: What positions does Oluseye Oladejo hold within the APC political party? A: Oluseye Oladejo is a spokesperson for the APC political party in the Lagos area of Nigeria.

Q: Where is Dr. Oluwatoyin Oladejo based? A: Dr. Oluwatoyin Oladejo is based in Texas, USA, and is a psychiatric medical practitioner.

Q: What are the potential long-lasting effects of defamation? A: Defamation can have long-lasting effects on a person’s personal and professional life, including damage to their reputation and character.

First reported by The Irish Times.

The post Shocking Defamation Case: Nigerian Politician and Psychiatrist Wife’s Legal Battle with Irish Blogger appeared first on The Blog Herald.

Bluesky Social is a groundbreaking project that aims to revolutionize the world of social media. With its decentralized platform, users can interact with multiple social networks, each with its unique curation and moderation system. This means that users will no longer be confined to a single platform but will have the flexibility to engage with various communities and content creators. The platform’s open standard ensures that all companies’ policies and limitations support innovation and creativity. Bluesky Social is poised to become the next big thing in social media, empowering users to connect and collaborate like never before.

At the forefront of an important social media change the app developers are creating an open system through the AT Protocol, revolutionizing online interactions. This protocol, set to be completed soon, will bring back the early Internet era when anyone could create a blog or follow multiple RSS feeds. The Bluesky app acts as a demonstration of this game-changing protocol. Bluesky aims to generate new advancements in social media by resolving the issues plaguing popular social networks. This vision is one that founder Dorsey has tweeted, and we eagerly anticipate the change that this groundbreaking technology will bring.

Bluesky Social’s decentralized platform offers a variety of features that will give users more control over their data and digital identity. The platform is designed to be censorship-resistant, meaning that users can feel confident that their content won’t be subjected to arbitrary censorship or taken down without any explanation. Furthermore, Bluesky Social offers privacy protection, which allows users to decide who can see their data and who can’t. Finally, the platform is designed to give users full autonomy over their content so they are not dependent on third-party companies or platforms for hosting or curation.

Bluesky Social’s decentralized platform has the potential to revolutionize the way we interact on social media completely. The platform’s features ensure users have greater control over their data and digital identity, censorship resistance, and user autonomy. With its open standard, Bluesky Social is set to become the next big thing in social media, and it has already made a huge impact in just a short period. We can’t wait to see what the future holds for Bluesky Social.

As social media continues to evolve, Bluesky Social’s decentralized platform is poised to be the next big thing. Its censorship resistance, privacy protection, and user autonomy features can revolutionize how we interact with each other on social networks. If you’re curious about where social media could be headed, keep your eyes open for the launch of Bluesky Social’s revolutionary platform! It has the potential to disrupt the way we interact online completely.

The future of social media is here with Bluesky Social’s decentralized platform, and it will be a game-changer for how we communicate and collaborate on social networks. Keep your eyes open for its launch, as it could usher in a new era of user autonomy and control over data and digital identity.

The post The Future of Social Media? A Sneak Peek into Bluesky Social’s Decentralized Platform appeared first on The Blog Herald.

Storytelling through Captions

Instagram and TikTok captions are typically short, but they can still be used effectively to tell engaging stories. Instead of merely describing the visual elements of your content, take the opportunity to provide context, share personal experiences, or convey deeper messages. Craft compelling captions that complement your visuals and encourage your audience to dive deeper into the story you’re telling.

Longer-Form Video Content

TikTok is known for its short-form videos. Yet, the platform also allows for longer video content through its “TikTok LIVE” feature. Utilize this feature to host live sessions where you can discuss topics in more detail, share tutorials, or conduct interviews. By going live, you can create an interactive experience that resembles a blog post or a podcast episode. So, you engage with your audience in real time.

Instagram and TikTok Guides

Both Instagram and TikTok offer the option to create guides. This allows you to curate and organize content around specific themes or topics. Take advantage of this feature to create blog-like collections of posts that provide valuable information, recommendations, or step-by-step guides. Moreover, guides can be a great way to offer in-depth insights and share expertise with your audience. They allow a structured and easily accessible format.

Utilize IGTV and TikTok’s Longer Videos

Instagram’s IGTV and TikTok’s longer video options provide opportunities to create more extensive and detailed content. So, use these features to share in-depth tutorials, product reviews, or educational content that goes beyond the constraints of traditional short-form videos. By exploring longer video formats, you can deliver valuable information and establish yourself as an authority within your niche.

Highlights and Categories

Instagram’s Highlights and TikTok’s “For You” page offer the chance to categorize and organize your content, providing a blog-like structure to your profile. Use Highlights to curate your best and most informative posts, allowing your audience to explore specific topics or themes. On TikTok, also aim to create a cohesive and curated experience by using hashtags and engaging with the For You page algorithm. This will help your content reach a wider audience and encourage viewers to consume your videos as a collection.

Cross-Promotion and Linking

To create a blog-like experience, it’s crucial to establish a cohesive online presence across platforms. Cross-promote your Instagram and TikTok content. Share links or references to your blog or website in your captions, videos, or profiles. Encourage your audience to explore your additional content beyond the social media platforms, fostering a deeper connection and encouraging them to become regular readers of your blog.

Collaborate with Influencers and Experts

Just like in the blogging world, collaborations with influencers and industry experts can elevate your content. Plus, they provide a fresh perspective. Seek opportunities to collaborate with relevant influencers on Instagram and TikTok, creating joint content or featuring guest appearances. These collaborations can help expand your reach, introduce new topics, and provide valuable insights for your audience.

Engage with your Audience

Building a blog-like experience is not just about one-way communication. Actively engage with your audience by responding to comments, conducting polls, and asking for feedback. Encourage discussions and create a sense of community by encouraging your followers to share their thoughts, ask questions, and contribute to the conversation. By fostering a two-way dialogue, you can create a more interactive and engaging experience similar to a blog’s comment section.

In conclusion, while Instagram and TikTok are primarily known as social media platforms, they also offer ample opportunities to transform them into blog-like experiences. By incorporating storytelling, longer-form content, curated collections, cross-promotion, collaborations, and audience engagement, you can leverage these platforms to create a compelling and informative online presence that closely resembles a blog. Embrace the unique features of these platforms and adapt them to suit your content goals, ultimately expanding your reach and providing valuable experiences for your audience.

The post Ways to Transform Instagram and TikTok into a Blog appeared first on The Blog Herald.

There’s more. According to a recent study, verified Instagram accounts experience a whopping 30% higher engagement rate than non-verified accounts. If you’re serious about growing your presence on the platform, getting that coveted blue checkmark should be at the top of your to-do list. But how can you do that? How to get verified on Instagram within a short span? That’s what we will help you with!

How to Get Verified on Instagram: What You Must Do?

Want to learn how to get verified on Instagram? One of the most important steps is making sure that your Instagram bio is optimized. Not only will this impress the verification team when they check you out, but it can also lead to more followers and conversions.

You must apply for the verification. This is actually a pretty simple and straightforward process. You must have noticed the hamburger icon in the top right corner of your Instagram profile.

Click on it and then tap on settings. Go to your account and tap on request verification. There’s an application form you must fill out, which includes information like your legal name, working name, and so on. Fill it up and submit a photo of your official government ID alongside. And submit the application.

Their team will review your application, and you will get your response via the notifications tab within a few days or weeks. Note that you will simply get a yes or no. There is no feedback or explanations.

However, if you do get turned down the first time around, don’t worry. Use the opportunity to focus on your goals and double down on your efforts. This is the perfect chance to refine your Instagram strategy, build a loyal following, and create buzz off the platform as well.

So hone your skills, work hard, and whether it takes 30 days or a few quarters, you can apply again with confidence. Remember, getting verified takes time and persistence. Keep trying, and you’ll get there eventually. Of course, you have to prove you are a notable account worthy of being verified. And how are you going to do that? We have some ideas.

Don’t Try to Buy Your Way In

Comments who says his friend works for Instagram? Never give him money. This is crucial if you want to get the coveted verified badge on Instagram. Instagram scammers have been preying on people’s desperation for the blue checkmark and are creating false accounts and third-party apps and posing as Instagram representatives.

It’s essential to note that Instagram will never ask you for payment, and if anybody claims to be selling the verified badge, it’s most likely a scam. To improve your chances of getting verified, you should focus on building a robust and authentic presence by regularly posting high-quality content that is relevant to your niche.

It’s also recommended to have a website and other social media profiles linked to your Instagram account. Instagram carefully chooses who receives the verified badge, so it might take some time, but it’s essential to be patient and never fall prey to a third-party scam.

Attract New and, More Importantly, Real Followers

If you’re trying to get verified on Instagram, increasing your follower count is definitely a step in the right direction. It’s a common trend that the more popular you are, the more likely you are to get verified.

But beware, buying Instagram followers is not a shortcut you want to take. Not only does it break the Community Guidelines, but it’s also a surefire way to get your account shut down. So, what can you do instead? Try to increase your follower count and up your chances of getting verified.

For this, you can try tactics like posting consistently, interacting with followers more frequently, and using relevant hashtags. Remember, building an engaged following takes time and effort, but the payoff is worth it in the end.

Make Your Account More Searched

You need to focus on building a strong and engaged following through organic discovery. This is where the Explore page comes in handy, as it can expose your content to users who may not have found you otherwise. Keep in mind, verification is about more than just follower count and engagement.

Instagram wants to see that people actually care about you enough to seek you out on their own. While the platform doesn’t provide analytics on this data, it’s safe to assume that the verification team has access to it and takes it into consideration.

So, if you want to improve your chances of getting verified, make sure you’re creating content that people are actively searching for and engaging with. By doing so, you’ll demonstrate to Instagram that you truly are a valuable and noteworthy presence on the platform.

Leverage Your Popularity at the Right Time

Still wondering how to get verified on Instagram? Work on being known more. Note that paid or promotional content does not count towards proving how notable you are. Instagram conducts its own research to determine who should receive the checkmark, so it’s up to you to ensure your news is front and center.

If your brand hasn’t made PR a priority in the past, it may be more challenging to prove yourself. But fear not; if you’ve recently experienced a surge in attention or are planning a big announcement, now’s the time to apply for that checkmark. Strike while the iron is hot, and make sure your name is impossible to ignore.

Everyone Values Honesty, Even Instagram

One thing is for sure: you shouldn’t falsify any information. Instagram takes this very seriously and says that it will deny your request and it also has the right to delete your account. If you want to get verified, you need to ensure that your profile and bio are complete and effective.

Instagram has a basic set of requirements like having a bio, profile pic, and one post, but you shouldn’t just stop there. You should go above and beyond these requirements to impress the verification team.

Optimizing your Instagram bio will pay off in the long run by generating more followers and conversions. So, invest time in making sure your profile and bio are top-notch, and you’ll have a better chance of getting that blue checkmark you so want. That’s pretty much all you need to know about how to get verified on Instagram.

The post How to Get Verified on Instagram appeared first on The Blog Herald.

About 93% of marketers are using social media for increased brand exposure. At the same time, 75% of social media marketers believe that social media helps them to increase site traffic.

Social media can help businesses connect, engage, and interact with their potential audience. Social media evaluation helps businesses rate their content’s accuracy, quality, and relevancy.

How can social media evaluation help in improved content marketing?

A social media evaluation is the best way to determine if your business content strategy needs help. Here is how social media can help you to improve content marketing.

Check your social media content performance more accurately

Likes and follows are the most common metrics people consider for social media success. Even though the graphs depicting changes in the followers’ count mean continuous progress, these aren’t the only things to consider for social media success.

You need to evaluate more than likes and followers to determine how your content performs here.

We don’t say that likes on your social media content aren’t valuable. It’s just that these likes are just a part of your broader social media evaluation and management strategy.

Appropriate social media evaluation can help you accurately measure your social media performance. You can determine the reach of your social media content more effectively.

Better understand your audience

The success of your content depends upon your audience. If you write and promote content according to what your potential audience is looking for, you’ll certainly achieve better results.

Everyone using social media platforms leaves a digital footprint in one way or the other. An evaluation is the best way to take advantage of that footprint.

Social media provides multiple amazing ways to engage your potential audience in real-time. Social media evaluation can help you better understand your audience’s content preferences. Using different metrics, you can determine the type of content that is:

• Best engaging your audience.
• Encourages more likes
• Get more post clicks, shares, and more.

Having a clear idea of what type of content your audience wants. Moreover, social media evaluation can help you understand this more easily.

Fine-tune your social media content strategy

A thorough evaluation with a few clicks will let you understand which of your content marketing tactics are working on social media. This practice will also help you to understand the content marketing strategies that show no results. Consequently, you can focus more on the best-performing strategies and change the ones that aren’t showing effective results.

For instance, if you’ve found that content with images engages more people and gets more clicks, then you can refine your content strategy accordingly. You will certainly attach an image with every content piece you want to post.

In conclusion, social media evaluation can let you understand the improvements your content strategy needs. Fortunately, you can evaluate all social media platforms to create content that can help you achieve your content marketing goals.

Check the relevance, appearance, and overall quality of your content

• It can also help you determine how your ad and other content appear in the stories and newsfeed. You can check whether it looks eye-catching and stand out among others. Is it motivating people to like and try to find out more about you?
• Besides that, it will also let you see if your content is relevant to your audience. Also, is it containing appropriate slang, terminology, or language?
• It also helps you to determine the overall quality of the content you share.

Measure your Return on Investment

Without social media evaluation, it would be difficult to calculate your return on investment. Social media evaluation is a lifesaver when determining your efforts and spending return.

It helps you to measure ROI for your business and present the actual figures to determine social media campaigns’ effectiveness.

A Quick Guide to Starting

Social media networks contain more than 3.5 billion users who love consuming, liking, and sharing content. Social media evaluation can help businesses and individuals to conduct social media analysis of each platform they use.

Using the information from social media evaluation, you can certainly identify your areas of strength. Moreover, you can also improve upon your weaknesses for a more effective and engaging content marketing strategy.

However, if you want to self-start the social media evaluation, here are some important things to do.

• Firstly, determine the social media platforms you already use for content marketing. For B2B promotion, you should prefer using Facebook, LinkedIn, and Twitter.

Besides that, you can also maintain your presence on various social media channels, including Pinterest, Tumblr, Instagram, etc. Check the number of social media channels you’re using.

• Now determine how often you post content on these social media channels. Determine whether it is moderate, too little, or too often. Do you have adequate resources to optimize your post frequency?
• Assess each channel for the following things to understand your social media performance:

• Performance of posts, including engagement, reach, site clicks, and impressions.
• Share of Voice
• Conversion
• Post Type, etc.

• Look at the quality of the content you share. Always use proper grammar and spellcheck. Misspelling always screams unprofessional. Keep the text sweet and short. Incorporate links to your articles and multimedia, like videos and photos.
• Determine ways to track your social return on investment to check your efforts’ effectiveness. Check the room for strengths and determine how to address content weaknesses effectively.

Final Thoughts

Social media evaluation helps content creators and marketers comprehensively understand their market. You can know what you are doing better and how to improve it. This level of knowledge can consequently inspire creativity. Consequently, you will better know how to keep your content marketing strategy ahead of the game.

The post How Can A Social Media Evaluation Improve Your Content Marketing? appeared first on The Blog Herald.

Now, you’ve elected to ride that wave and take social media as a legitimate career. What does it take to cover your bases as a social media entrepreneur? Here are 5 easy steps that will take you to become a social media freelancer.

1. Know Your Structure

Depending on how you plan to execute your business and the scale you are trying to reach, there are several keys and slightly different ways to best go about setting up your business.

• Establish your Sole Tradership/Sole Proprietorship
• Set up an LLC

Sole Proprietorship’s are intended for one person that is running the company, as the company. It offers essentially no legal distinction. You can employ others, and it offers the ability to get you up and running quickly.

LLCs (Limited Liability Corporation) conversely take more time and money to establish but offer a legal distinction between the business and the individual. Consider if you had a campaign that went incredibly far south and wanted legal coverage. They do need to be registered with the State.

• Look to Register Trademarks
• Register for a Tax Number

This will set you up to avoid any major headaches come tax time. For many of those just starting a business this number if not managed properly can take an amazingly large cut of any would-be profit, you are assuming.

• Create a Separate Business Bank Account

Build an account distinction between yourself and your company. This will additionally help in the early days as you are pioneering out into the world of business ventures. The software can help in this regard to streamlining your payment and billing pipelines. Stripe is a very common form of such software.

2. Portfolio

As you begin to do work you will generate pieces that receive either enough accolades – views, likes, shares, etc. or enough creative merit to add to a special area of regarded work. This area will become your portfolio. This is what you can demonstrate to potential clients to help them buy into your vision.

A strong social media portfolio typically involves, an indication of the KPI – Key Performance Indicators and metrics, the actual visual piece, an explanation of the creative process, and the ultimate results of the piece. This is a huge indicator of analytic and creative proficiency as well as a major bartering chip in the client acquisition process.

3. Proper Pricing

As you begin to create as a social media freelancer, you will be able to measure and allot out your creative process. Knowing your timetables, skillset, and affinities will let your best price and understand your deliverables. Knowing how long it will take you will help you lay out your timeline. Your skills will help reveal areas to focus on and develop as well as your own personal best marketables via your growing portfolio. All of this will come to comprise the packages you offer and the scale at which you price them.

Here are several pricing models:

• Hourly Rate
• Monthly Retainer
• Set Campaign

Additionally, there are experience levels that can help you differentiate yourself and understand your relative place in the market:

• Junior – 2 Years: 20-30 per hour
• Mid – 3-5 Years: 40-75 per hour
• Senior – 5-8 Years: 80-100 per hour
• Expert – 10+ Years: 100-250 per hour

4. Build Your Network and Market Yourself

This comes after you’ve made headway into the market. You know your aptitudes worked out your vanguard pricing plan and begun situating yourself in the space. That portfolio is getting fat and you begin to garner a bit of a reputation. Now you need to begin networking.

This brings in new business and allows you to connect to other social media entrepreneurs that are, like you, trying to dominate the space. Your peers can offer tips and insights and also help volley jobs and projects off you. By being in the space you can begin to saturate the market with yourself and start to grow in even greater prominence.

This can even go further with employing the tactics you’ve learned to serve others to begin to work for you. Additionally, even taking the time to market through your own identity and name both directly and indirectly can put you in public consciousness outside of your space.

5. Scale Your Enterprise

This is the final step to reaching the pinnacle of the industry. While this is largely a business step, at this point you are deep in the social media marketing business. This means that you look to take on salaried employees, gain new clients and outsource work accordingly as you scale your business and its identity up the ladder.

At this point in the business, it is important to:

• Gather Testimonials
• Perform Case Studies

It was the review feature that was allotted to much of Amazon’s early success. Testimonials and referrals are some of the easiest ways to score high-quality, like-minded clientele in the future. The higher the quality of the testimonial or the referee, the more likely it is that the inbound client will be of a similar nature and quality.

As your work and work management grow, so shall your reputation, size, scale, hopefully, quality, and most of all ability to take more work as a social media freelancer. At this point, your fledgling social media upstart has become a dominating force within the space simply by doing the easy, difficult thing, consistently over time.

The post Become a Social Media Freelancer in 5 Easy Steps appeared first on The Blog Herald.

What’s the difference? Think of your organization like a large tree. A massive tree can’t keep getting taller (a.k.a., growing) unless it has a supportive, extensive root system. The intricate root system doesn’t just stabilize the tree, though. It keeps everything above the ground nourished and thriving so more growth can happen.

In terms of business, your reach serves as your roots. And as your brand’s reach broadens and matures, you can pull from a variety of areas to fuel your plans. As a result, you will be more able to control your scaling efforts.

What tactics can you use to widen your reach? Try these methods to give your corporation’s “root system” a serious boost.

1. Optimize your workflows.

One of the first steps toward extending the reach of your company is to make sure your team is as efficient as possible. By streamlining your employees’ operational workflows, everyone will have more time to devote to the most important tasks of their day.

For instance, if you sell goods online, you could consider outsourcing some or all of your logistical operations. According to Tradefull, a complete e-commerce solution, working with a third-party logistics provider can serve multiple purposes.

First, you’ll be able to optimize your warehousing, dropshipping, and returns. Just as importantly, you’ll be able to leverage the provider’s expertise to cost-effectively explore untapped markets. And if you can find a partner similar to Tradefull that has cutting edge technology like autonomous robots, you can minimize worker duties and boost efficiencies.

Supply chain management and logistics aren’t the only areas you can optimize. Financial processes like distributing payroll and logging invoices are often places begging for improvements. Overall, you shouldn’t be afraid to invest in technology to smooth out friction points so you’re primed for outward expansion.

2. Hone your customer experience.

Customers don’t just like working with brands that offer a consistent, reliable experience. They become devoted fans because they appreciate the way they’re treated.

Consider Disney World. People come back to the magical park year after year, even into their adulthoods. The Disney-themed site AllEars posits that one of the reasons is that Disney is synonymous with never-ending quality. Accordingly, people know that if something is related to Disney, it’s bound to be spectacular.

Your company doesn’t have to promise fairytale experiences, of course. However, eliminating all objections to working with your brand can produce appealing dividends. Not only will buyers rave about you online but you’ll start to build more of a brand cache.

Never underestimate the “reach” possibilities if your brand experience encourages positive buzz. A recent CNBC article chronicling Trader Joe’s rise shows how reputation can prompt empires. Trader Joe’s grew its reach by finding ways to exploit loopholes and bring customers exceptional merchandise at unexpectedly reasonable prices. As long as it met those shoppers’ expectations, it kept earning a mystique that made it popular. Your brand could do likewise by crafting an experience that helps you stand out.

3. Seek out new audiences.

Are you marketing your goods or services to everyone who could use them? Maybe not. Often, businesses overlook key audiences who might be interested. And uncovering an untested audience can stretch your reach and propel business growth.

Gather your team together and look at your Google Analytics as well as customer data. Brainstorm about who might find value in what you’re offering. Challenge everyone to get creative. Not coming up with much? You can always ask repeat buyers how they use your products to discover new marketing personas.

As soon as you come up with one or two audiences, test them out on a small scale. If you find out they’re gaining traction, you can invest more into your marketing.

4. Partner with a non-competing company.

Corporate partnerships aren’t anything novel but many small businesses overlook their value. When it comes to growing your reach, a thoughtful partnership can get your brand in front of a different set of people. Plus, it can assist you in deepening your network as an industry leader.

A prime example of this type of co-branding technique is the Doritos Locos Taco offered through Taco Bell. Though the final recipe reportedly took three years to perfect, the fast-food creation was a hit. Not only did it satisfy Doritos enthusiasts but it brought them into Taco Bell out of curiosity.

What are some ways to find the perfect “peanut butter” to match your “jelly?” Go back to your market research. Review your data to think about what would “go” with what you sell. Then check out other brands to figure out which ones might make good friends. When you make your pitch, be sure that the partnership you’re proposing promises a win-win.

Getting more revenue without acquiring more prospects or customers can be tough. Consequently, if you’re trying to scale, work on extending the reach of your company first. The more sweeping your brand influence, the easier it will be to nurture and sustain future growth.

The post Extending the Reach of Your Company: 4 Tips appeared first on The Blog Herald.

Popular Microbloggers

The terms micro-influencer and microblogger can often be used as synonyms. There are famous microbloggers for every sector of entertainment or information. There are fashion, food, lifestyle, shopping, makeup, fitness, sports, travel, home goods, you name it, it’s covered.

Popular platforms for microblogging, as you may guess, are social media platforms. Twitter, Instagram, Facebook. Tumbler, Pinterest, and even LinkedIn for businesses.

Twitter

Arguably the most popular form of microblog, due to the word limit and the quick update style posting format. It is quick and convenient to share your thoughts, post gifs, and showcase links to other articles or posts.

Instagram

A visual form of microblogging, which make this a fun and different choice for bloggers to utilize original photos rather than only written word.

Facebook

Similar to Instagram, Facebook makes it easy to cater to a visual form of microblogging.

Pinterest

Linking your content to Pinterest is quick, and easy, and allows for small blurbs and pictures to be saved for future use by your followers.

Tumblr

Though it isn’t as popular of a platform as it was in recent years, Tumblr is still a great platform for quickly posting for a microblog. You can also tag specific topics to keep your niche relevant.

LinkedIn

Companies and agencies are able to utilize LinkedIn for microblogging snippets of news for their brand. The platform makes it easy to post both long and short-form posts along with being able to link other articles and pictures for followers.

Niche

Similar to a regular blog, finding your niche carries a lot of weight for the impending success of your microblog. For microblogs that surround topics like fashion or makeup, authors will want to keep up with current trends as well as do continuous research to stay on top of how to stay relevant to their followers. This will include mentioning the season’s best brands and products while linking where they should shop for the best quality for their money. Sponsorships are typically very popular with microbloggers because they can give out codes to their followers. Sponsorships and partnerships are affordable marketing tools for brands, and convenient for customers to see the most popular items at a glance on the microblogger’s page.

Authenticity

Followers and readers of microblogs typically are looking for a sense of authenticity when looking for new bloggers and influencers to follow. If your content is not only relevant but real, you will automatically find a following of people who appreciate you for that vulnerability to show yourself as a real person.

Trends

Keeping up with trends no matter what area or niche your microblog lives in is vital to your success. If you are constantly a week or more behind on trends, followers will begin to notice. They may even look elsewhere for more relevant information.

Personal Account

Once you develop a following for your microblog, it is easy to turn your personal account into a microblogging account. There are settings to maximize your content across each platform. For Instagram, you can change your account into a creator account by going into your settings. Then, click “switch to creator account” in the account settings tab. It’s that simple to get started. For Twitter, you can switch to a professional account. The settings are pretty similar across social media platforms.

Conclusion

Now that you know how a microblog differs from a traditional blog, you’re ready to grow it! Microblogging is not only a great opportunity for aspiring bloggers to get their foot in the door but a way for those that want to be big names in the influencing world to develop an audience and rapport with their subscribers. Whether your microblog is on Twitter, Instagram, Pinterest, Facebook, or any number of other platforms, you will be ready to make the most of it!

The post How Does a Microblog Differ from a Traditional Blog? Learn to Maximize It. appeared first on The Blog Herald.

Networking is how you will gain new followers, subscribers, and readers. Word of mouth is still very much alive in today’s age of everything being online. 

You can join online forums to chat with other similar niche bloggers. Facebook groups and online groups exist that meet over Zoom or through another video chat platform. This way, you get to know each other and work not only as a professional resource but as a personal one as well. 

Do Your Research

You will never be able to rid yourself of continuing education, or researching while you are in a field involving different publics and any sort of academia. In this case, blogging and curating that blog for the enjoyment of others can take some research. On the other hand, growing the blog through other people can take some research as well. Take the time to learn about the other person or persons you are meeting online through networking events. Or even meeting casually through engagement on each other’s postings. Learn who they are, why they are blogging, and what you could be able to teach each other right off the bat. You will almost always be able to learn from each new person you meet. Additionally, the opposite is true and they can learn from you. 

Goals

Have a specific goal in mind when attending any virtual networking events or when setting up any sort of meet-up with new people. How can that person help you, and what are you hoping to gain from the experience both immediately and in the future? Going into the introduction with goals will help to set yourself up for success to continue growing your blog. 

Conclusion

Remember that networking can be your best friend, but remember you must treat it as such. Think of networking like a plant, if you don’t water your house plants, they will shrivel up and stop producing new fruit or leaves. The same goes for joining blog hops and networking. If you stop contributing to the relationships being built through your network, you will lose future connections, and your current ones will no longer continue to put in effort towards their relationship with you.

Networking is a great way to not only meet new people but grow your blog and passion in the process. This article should leave you with a few tips, tricks, and words of wisdom to get you moving in the right direction to grow your online network. 

The post Blog Hops: Networking the Web  appeared first on The Blog Herald.

In 2022 social media is king, and video dominates social media. From Fortune 500 companies to food trucks, to junior high after-school clubs, people are using video to tell their stories and promote their products.  And most are using TikTok and/or YouTube.

So the question of “should you be using them” is obvious, but for you, which one wins out when it’s TikTok vs YouTube?   

YouTube was first beginning in 2005, and except for a few attempts from competitors along the way they have been the absolute leader in the field. Today they have over two billion monthly users and their name has become a verb.

But TikTok came along in 2017, and already has over a billion users themselves and is growing at a supersonic rate. Do they have the legs to overtake YouTube? Time will tell, but neither platform is going away anytime soon.

Let’s dig into each platform and figure out which one is best for you.

TikTok

TikTok is a short-form video sharing and social networking service that hosts a wide variety of short videos from a few seconds to three minutes.

The site was originally called Musical.ly and was used primarily for fun. Users used music and lip-sync technology to make short funny and entertaining videos. Over the years the selection of songs and sound effects and video-sharing features has grown, which has added to the site’s popularity.

Before long, other kinds of content started popping up. Food, fashion, dances, and even business-related videos started to populate the platform. And while it is used mainly to create content shared between friends, top brands started to notice and use it to increase brand awareness. Content creators, influencers, and bloggers weren’t far behind.

For those wanting to connect with a younger audience, TikTok is where you want to be. 60% of users are between 16-24 years old. But like most social media trends, older folks aren’t far behind. Recent trends show the app is gradually aging up, with about 31% of the audience now 40 and above.

Another attractive aspect of TikTok is that users don’t just use it, they LOVE it. The average user opens the app 8 times a day and spends an incredible 95 minutes per day on the platform. That’s saying a ton in the age of short attention spans.

If imitation really is the sincerest form of flattery, then TikTok is blushing bright red. Facebook, Instagram, Twitter, and even YouTube are among the giants that have adjusted their own formats or even created new ones to compete with the hot up & comer.

YouTube

YouTube is an online video-sharing platform, that has grown to become the second most visited website on the planet, way ahead of Facebook and behind only Google.com.

The platform was already popular and growing in 2006. But that year, Google bought the platform for what seemed like an exorbitant 1.65 billion dollars. The site exploded from there and today is estimated to be worth at least 160 billion dollars.

YouTube’s continued growth is due to several factors including its ease of use, its massive user base, and the wide variety and volume of content. It’s hard to get your head around, but there are over 500 hours of content uploaded to the site…every minute.  Music, news, politics, and any and every topic finds itself on YouTube.

While TikTok features short videos, YouTube focuses on longer videos. Up to 15 minutes for all users, and even longer for verified accounts.

YouTube continues to expand on its original focus of just videos. With the introduction in recent years of YouTube TV, YouTube Music, and more, it’s obvious that the platform is not slowing down.

Using its parent company’s resources, YouTube for Business is another opportunity for brands to reach a bigger audience, boost their engagement, and build their brand.  It also helps businesses, big and small, monetize their content as their subscriber base grows.

In the demographics discussion, compared to TikTok, YouTube reaches a much wider audience. TikTok is big with kids, but 85% of teens also use YouTube. And it is the most used platform among adults in the U.S., with about 81% being active on the site.

YouTube really has a mass appeal, as its audience includes kids, teens, and young adults. Even many seniors are comfortable using the site.

In Conclusion  

As you can see there are many similarities and some differences between the platforms when compared. The bottom line is that they are both cultural and economic monsters. Plus, they both continue to grow with no signs of slowing down. And when comparing TikTok vs YouTube, both might come out on top for some and not for others.

A quick trial run of both sites should help you see which one you are more comfortable with. You can proceed from there. 

The post TikTok vs YouTube appeared first on The Blog Herald.

Social media is also a great tool for validating an idea that you are working on, or maybe just noodling with.

If you type the words “social media” and “validation” in the same Google search, look out! It is a hot topic these days in relation to self-esteem and mental health. But we’re going to look at it from a different, less personal angle.

As a content creator or blogger, social media validation is something completely different. It’s a good way to find out what your audience expects from you, regarding content. Said another way, it helps keep you from wasting your and their time with content they aren’t interested in.

Or let’s say you have a nugget of an idea about something you want to talk about but aren’t sure which way to go with it. A test run on social media might just help you flesh it out.

Validating an idea has other benefits. It can help you gather feedback from your audience, which is always important. That feedback can often help you improve your product.

It can also help build confidence in your idea. When you know you’re moving in the right direction with new content, it always makes it easier to keep developing it.

Try using these steps!

1. Start with your initial idea.

What was it that first attracted you to this topic? Maybe whatever it was that got your attention will resonate with your audience as well.

Create a quick social media post explaining your general thoughts on the idea, then keep an eye on the feedback it receives. Comments from your audience could give you some guidance on which way to go with further content.

Lack of engagement could be a sign that you need to move on to another topic. But if it’s an idea you believe in, don’t give it up immediately. Try posting the idea again from either a broader perspective, or a narrower one. A different angle may trigger a different reaction from your audience.

2. Create an outline.

Whatever your process for creating content, at some point you have a broad idea of where you think the topic will go. Even if it’s only in your head and not on paper or a screen.

Pick something from the outline and post it on social media. Again, the engagement or lack of it will give you a path to take.

3. Share similar content from another source.

Social media is all about sharing content, whether it’s yours or someone else’s. Find an article, video, or meme that is related to your topic and gauge your audience’s reaction.

Along the same lines, look at the things your audience shares on their timelines. You may find that they are already interested in your topic.

4. Come right out and ask.

Sometimes we “creatives” spend a lot of time trying to be clever, when the direct approach is more effective.

Post something related to the topic you are interested in developing and ask your audience if it interests them. Ask if they would be interested in learning more about it.

5. Use all your social channels.

Don’t just do a Facebook post, send a tweet. Post on your Instagram account, or LinkedIn.

You may find that the topic doesn’t get much traction in one place but does in another. Either way this is good information to have moving forward.

6. Check hashtags.

Hashtags are used to group individual posts around the same topic on social media. Go into the search section of any of your social media accounts and create a hashtag related to the topic you are interested in.

You will instantly be able to see how much buzz there is on the topic. Not only that but you’ll quickly be able to see if the buzz is positive or negative.

It’s important to remember that just because something is important on all of Twitter or Instagram, that doesn’t necessarily mean it’s important to your audience. But it’s still information that can be useful to you while making your final decision.

7. Look at the comment section from previous posts.

It’s easy to get busy creating your content, and then moving on to the next idea.

Your audience may already be leaving you clues about what they want. You won’t even know if you’re not checking their feedback.

Never forget that social media is two-way communication. If you’re not engaging with your audience they will likely move on to someone else’s content.

Wrapping Up

Keep in mind that while it’s important to create content that others are interested in, your blog is about you and your ideas.

You likely started the whole thing because you had a passion about your ideas and you wanted to share them. If you want to write about it, write about it, no matter the feedback.

But the internet is a big place, and with a little work, finding others who share that same passion is something that will pay off for you in the long run.

The post Social Media Validation: How to Validate an Idea appeared first on The Blog Herald.

But using social media for your blog is a little different than the way most of us use our personal accounts. And you want to start small, so you can focus on doing it right. Here are 5 simple steps to help you get started.

1. Pick the Right Platform for Your Blog’s Voice

Not every social media platform is going to make sense for your brand. Of course, Facebook is still the big blue bully on the block with 2.9 billion users. You know Twitter, Instagram, and YouTube, and there are countless other platforms you’ve never heard of.

Spending some time figuring out which platforms fit your site will save you lots of valuable time. Start with one platform. Spend some time watching how it works, how to post your content, etc. Once you’ve got that down, pick another platform and do the same process there.

2. Create an Account for Your Blog

You can use your personal accounts to share, support, and promote your content, but an account with the same name lends consistency and credibility to the blog. Another advantage of an account of this nature is that it allows you to post in “third-person.” In some cases you can use more flattering language about the content, that might come across as cocky or boastful coming from your personal accounts.

Have a logo created, or create one yourself that you can use to tie in your blog to your social media accounts so that you become more recognizable when people come across your posts. Be sure to use the same phrases and taglines on both as well. The easier it is for the reader to make the connection back to you, the better.

3. Be Consistent

Just like regular blogging is important, so is regular sharing of your content. The algorithms and inner workings of social media sites reward consistency. The more you post, the more your posts will be prioritized across the site.

Also, being consistent will also help your accounts gain more regular followers. When you drive traffic to your blog, then you create more regular followers. They lead to more likes, and shares, which leads to more people seeing your content, which leads to more regular followers, and here we go again!

4. Make the Posts Shareable

Every social media platform makes sharing easy, but there are things you can do to help. Be sure to make your post about the reader/customer, and not about you/the content itself. Ask yourself “what will reading this post do for the reader?” Then use some colorful language to say that in the opening line of your post.

Using video is a great way to stand out and get people to share your post. Instagram says that video gets 38% more engagement than its picture-only posts. And the quality of video on the smartphone you carry has come a long way, so there’s no need to purchase costly video shooting and editing equipment.

5. Engage with People Who Engage with Your Posts  

It’s easy to fall into the habit of just posting something on social media and moving on to the next thing. But it’s called “social” media. Nobody likes being part of a one-way conversation. And if you’re not responding back to those who are reaching out to you, it defeats the purpose of posting in the first place. And the more people are interacted with, the more they will be back for more. 

It’s important to “like” comments left on your posts, answer questions that are asked, and respond to criticisms or complaints. Especially respond to criticisms and complaints! Plus, the more you engage with your followers, the more you can learn about them.  Understanding what kinds of content they are coming to you for will give you ideas for future blogs or social media posts. 

Eventually, you may even be able to create “community groups” of your followers. Start discussions in the groups, and they become your pitch-people, sharing your content with others.

Final Thoughts

These are some simple steps that you can start taking today to spread the word about your content. Eventually, it may make sense to invest in someone that specializes in these matters to grow your blog even more.  

A professional will also be able to help you learn from and use the analytics of a social media site to drive traffic to your blog.  This helps you learn who, what, when, where, and why people are consuming your content. It’s invaluable information that all sites track, and with the right knowledge can be used to your benefit.

The post 5 Effective Ways to Use Social Media to Drive Traffic to Your Blog appeared first on The Blog Herald.

Top tips for getting started with a side hustle

1. Don’t be blindsided

You’re the only one with true insight into your passions, priorities, and overall circumstances. While there’s no shortage of great tips and ideas for getting started with a side hustle, it’s vital to decide how much time you have to commit to your efforts. There are many other factors to consider before starting a side hustle.  

If there’s just one tip you remember, make it this one: It’s beyond important to start out on the right foot. Knowing what you’re getting into in terms of taxes and side hustle tax deductions, insurance, and other less-than-exciting but oh-so-necessary factors can save major headaches in the future. 

2. Improve on existing skills

Sure, you can (and should!) hire writers and web developers to help you with your workload once you get to the point where your side hustle is booming, but when you’re just getting started, focus on growing your own skills. Social media training from Hootsuite and other companies can help you get your side hustle off the ground. 

Certification programs are a great way to stay well-informed and updated even after you’ve gotten the social media credentials you want.

3. Start your side hustle the right way 

Whichever side hustle(s) you opt in to, it’s beyond important to create a plan and set yourself up for success from the get-go. Forbes offers a fantastic guide to starting a side hustle with tips that can be applied to everything from creating your own crafting business to picking up gigs on popular freelancing sites like Upwork and Guru.com. There’s no need to reinvent the wheel! 

Side hustle ideas

Maybe you have a side hustle or two in mind. Perhaps you’re just dancing with the idea of setting up as a freelancer or selling fabulous handcrafted jewelry on Etsy. Here are a few top side hustles to consider – and hey – there’s no rule that says you have to pick just one! 

1. Offer your skills as a virtual assistant

Believe it or not, virtual assistants (Vas) are in high demand. As someone who is organized, efficient, and social media savvy, you could make a tidy sum helping companies keep in touch with their audiences and perhaps performing other tasks. Spend just a little time poking around online and you’ll find loads of opportunities to take advantage of this profitable side hustle. Who knows? One (or more) of them could be the ideal match.

2. Manage social media profiles

Love Pinterest? How about Facebook or Instagram? You might be able to translate your appreciation for social media to a fantastic side hustle. Believe it or not, successful bloggers and businesses often need help from experts like you, who know their way around the top social media sites like Pinterest and who can successfully use those platforms to gain followers. Look in blogging Facebook groups and check out freelancing websites for opportunities if managing social media profiles sounds like the perfect side hustle!

3. Start a YouTube channel or sell videos on Vimeo

Vlogging is fun but YouTube tutorials and product reviews can be profitable, as can selling videos on Vimeo. If you’ve got an engaging personality, a great camera, and plenty of useful information to share, this is a fantastic side hustle to consider. Like some other ideas, this one usually takes some time to get off the ground, so it’s not ideal for those who are looking for a way to make extra money right away. 

4. Become an affiliate

You’re already using social media, so why not spend a little of that time making money? Bloggers and other content creators know that affiliate marketing is one of the best ways to make money online – so much so that many find that their side hustle quickly outpaces their day job! 

It takes an effort to get started with this side hustle but with the right affiliate marketing tools, it’s possible to automate time-consuming procedures and enjoy greater freedom in your daily life. Your social media presence will keep you engaged with your audience and give others the opportunity to take advantage of the offers you introduce. 

5. Try your hand at e-commerce

Start your own website or buy an online store that’s already stocked and ready to go. Dropshipping makes it simple to operate a business online since there’s no need to warehouse anything or worry about getting products out to customers. Your social media skills will be put to good use in promoting your products. 

6. Already blogging? Kick it up a notch

If you’re already blogging (or thinking about it) consider creating multiple blogs instead of sticking with just one. Like some other social media-related side hustles, this one calls for quite a bit of work on the front end, but once you’ve created content and set yourself up as an affiliate, it can certainly get easier. Try these tips from blogging experts to make this side hustle as profitable as can be.

These are just a few top side hustle ideas, all curated with social media savvy individuals like you in mind. Remember that social media has the power to amplify anything, given the right mindset! Whether you decide to create your own business or freelance and serve clients, your ability to leverage social media will serve you well. Now, get out there and get started! Your perfect side hustle is waiting.

First published in February 2020; updated March 2022

The post Side Hustle Tips for the Social Media Savvy appeared first on The Blog Herald.

Just recently, Instagram and Facebook has faced significant backlash over some security issues. Many users are looking for newer and cheaper alternatives to Instagram and Facebook. Here are some of the best image sharing platforms on the internet:

Flickr (now SmugMug)

Flickr was the old-school photo-sharing platform, waaaaay before Instagram became a thing. Users can create a free account, gather friends (or followers), and share their photography and art through the platform. The platform was bought by SmugMug back in 2018, although the two photo-sharing platforms have separate websites and brands. Many photographers gained recognition and following with the help of this photo-sharing platform.

What makes Flickr useful for bloggers and content creators is the fact that it is home to thousands of creative commons pictures. This means that bloggers and content creators may use (some) uploaded images to their websites with a photo attribution as the bare minimum. Users are also free to donate to uploaders to further support their work. Remember, these are not stock photos like images that can be downloaded from Pixabay or Unsplash. Photos uploaded on Flickr are those that were taken by real people – both novice and professional photographers.

Cluster

If you are a blogger or a content creator and you have recently collaborated with photographers and artists, this may be one of the best photo-sharing websites to use. Cluster allows sharing of multiple images, regardless of size. This website is not a social media platform, however. Its tagline – Private group sharing for friends and family. This means that bloggers and photographers may be able to exchange a complete collection of images without letting the world know about it.

What Cluster boasts so highly about are its impressive privacy policies. Particularly, the website does not and will not ever claim ownership of images uploaded by users to the platform. Unlike in Facebook and Instagram, users are giving the platform permission to use (and re-use) uploaded images as they see fit.

Photobucket

For bloggers and website owners, content sizing is ESSENTIAL. It affects the speed of the blog. Blog speed affects its overall performance. Uploading large-sized photos can hurt a little when it comes to website storage. This is where Photobucket comes in handy. Bloggers can upload photos on this website and embed the images on their content via a direct link. Photobucket has a free plan for up to 250 images.

Postimages

Bloggers can use Postimages to upload images without expiration. Then, the website will create shareable links (URLs) of the photo which are usable on various social media platforms. They could be also used in WordPress (HTML links). Users may also choose an option where the image expires after 1, 7, or 30 days. What is great about this website is that users can upload up to 1000 images without actually creating an account.

WeTransfer

This is very similar to Cluster. Just imagine trying to send a heavy file to one of your clients. Emails only have 25 MB limits. How can you send a video or an album of raw photos without having the need to upload them on social media? Bloggers may be able to share files with their clients for up to two gigabytes free of charge.

Imgur

Now, Imgur is not your typical image sharing platform. It is similar to a social media site but focuses mostly on hilarious and nonsense topics. Memes and GIFs are among the most shareable content on the internet, which is the type of content that Imgur hosts. Imagine creating a single, small-sized GIF or image of something funny which you will see shared millions of times on different platforms – how cool can that be? For bloggers that are trying to inject some humor into some of their content, Imgur has creative commons content as well. Imgur can generate HTML links or URLs that bloggers can use to embed them on a separate website.

Exposure

In the same way that Instagram and Facebook stories are considered content, content shared on Exposure is considered publishable content as well. It is a video and photo sharing website for “visual storytellers”. If you are the type of blogger that likes unworded content, photography, and visual arts – this is the best platform to share your talents with the world.

Behance

This is owned by Adobe and it is a social media website that also doubles as a portfolio. It is a collection of images (both raw and photoshopped). It is also a platform for 3D art, illustrations, graphic design, and more. Bloggers can go through Behance content to look for individuals they can work with or they can collaborate with.

Vero

Vero was designed just like Instagram, sans all the issues in security and ads. Experience ad-free viewing – this is their major selling point. It is a good alternative to posting content. Bloggers can use it, similar to Instagram, as a marketing platform for their blog.

Steller

Many users reviewed this as a combination of scrapbooking, blogging, and social media. Users can create content through any media – video, text, or photo. Then the content can also be shared or embedded on other websites. The downside to this website is that it can be used only by Apple products.

There are more image sharing platforms available on the internet. However, these are among the best-reviewed for their price point and usability. Try out which ones work the best for you and your blog.

Also read: Check out these Amazing Wedding Blogs for 2021 Love Month

The post 10 Free Image Sharing Platforms appeared first on The Blog Herald.

Now, newer and better Instagram tools and updates are here that are sure to improve any blogger or creator’s content. Here are some of them:

New Instagram Updates

Shopping on Instagram Reels – newest Instagram tools and updates

This feature was on a test drive for the latter part of 2020 and was officially launched in December. The shop tab was originally added back in October but it was available only on image posts. Now, users can also include their product details on their Instagram Reels. This is great for any blogger or content creator who wants to promote their personal merch.

The best feature for bloggers and content creators – Instagram Guides

What was originally available to very few content creators was made accessible to all users last November 2020. Instagram Guide is a platform update that allows its users to create article-like content. Users can promote their products and create posts. This is one of the best features for content creators and bloggers. Imagine creating a mini-blog on your account where you can add a short narrative to videos, products, or photos that you post.

Instagram Search – Like Googling on Instagram

You can now search beyond usernames and hashtags for interests on Instagram. This is now available in English in a handful of countries and we’ll share more updates as we go. pic.twitter.com/zKkGXTe0wn

— Adam Mosseri (@mosseri) November 18, 2020

https://platform.twitter.com/widgets.js

Less of a tool and more of an update, Instagram users could now easily search topics on the platform. The Instagram Search update was introduced subtly last November 2020 and users are going to feel its full effects in the next coming months. This is a very helpful update for bloggers and content creators because users can now find their profile or Instagram page based on a content search. Before, it is hard for users to randomly see a profile on their feeds unless it is from a backlink or a sponsored post. Now, the odds of a user finding a blogger’s page is much higher with the help of the new Instagram search feature.

Watch Together – video sharing has never been this fun

Sending a DM on Instagram will never be the same again. TV Shows, Instagram Reels, and IGTV can now be watched together with friends, and loved ones through Instagram messenger. Through the video chat feature, any user connected via Instagram can watch IGTV, Reels, and TV Shows. Sharing videos has never been this fun and exciting before.

Music Stickers – Bring life to your content

The music sticker was originally available only to a few countries but was made available to all users globally by October of 2020. What is cooler than adding a soundtrack to your showcase? In fact, according to the Instagram help page, if lyrics are available on their database the user can personalize by choosing fonts and designs. Users can even choose which specific part of the song they wish to play, the song limit is up to 15 seconds.

New Third-Party Instagram Tools

Sendible

One of the most important things to have when creating content on social media is to have a management app or tool. Sendible is a tool to curate and manage different social media platforms in one place. An important feature is scheduling posts and content.

4K Stogram

Another important tool every content creator must-have is a backup tool. The 4K Stogram app creates a backup for any Instagram account within seconds.

Shorby 

Everyone knows that adding links on any Instagram profile is impossible. Shorby is a great too to by-pass that and create a link to help drive traffic towards a website or account. Basically, it also works as a link shortener.

Awario

Listening tools are now very popular for social media bloggers and content creators. This provides access to different data like competitors, mentions, and responses. Awario helps bloggers and content creators transform these data into useful tools to promote and increase interactions with their blogs, social media accounts, and websites.

Photerloo

This tool is 100% free and is one of the greatest tools any blogger should have. It is an Instagram hashtag and keyword generator. Simply upload an image onto Photerloo and it will generate appropriate Instagram hashtags and keywords. This uses a machine learning technique to analyze an image to generate keywords and hashtags.

Also Read: Cool Websites that help with your Grammar Hurdles

The post 11 New Instagram Tools and Updates to Improve Your Content appeared first on The Blog Herald.

If you are an aspiring blogger or influencer, there are many things you can learn from these rich yuppies. Most of them have original content and the way they market themselves is an impressive feat and, surely, one for the books. Some of these young TikTok influencers have built their own businesses on the side as well, besides being among the highest-paid TikTok users in the world.

Here are the richest and most followed young TikTok influencers (in no particular order):

Addison Rae Easterling

Est. Earnings: $45,000 to $60,000 per post

Just like all other young TikTok influencers, Addison Rae shot to stardom in less than one year. She also earned her multi-millions in that short span of time. With 69.8 million followers and 4.4Billion likes (as of press time), it comes as no surprise that she is the highest-paid TikTok influencer in the world. This girl is more than just a pretty face, she became famous for her talents in dancing and choreography.

@addisonre

@brycehall

? She Gone Enter – lil.eaarl & CallMeeMoney

Loren Gray

Est. Earnings: $40,000 to $42,000 per post

She is 2019’s richest TikTok influencer, with 49.6 Million followers and 2.7 Billion likes. Her lip-synching videos are what made her so popular. Now, Loren’s content has more variety with clips about fashion, dance, and beauty.

@lorengray

and that’s on being 5’9”

? Your The The The THE GRINCH – TikToksSoundGuy

Riyaz Afreen

Est. Earnings: $35,000 per post

Riyaz has a total of 43.6 Million followers and 2.1 Billion likes. His comedic-themed lip-synching clips entertained millions of people leading him to become one of the richest teens in his country. He also has multiple collaborations with popular celebrities and other social media personalities.

@riyaz.14

??? #duetwithriyaz #riyaz

? Hulara-Ishara Akh Da – J Star

Josh Richards

Est. Earnings: $12,000 to $15,000 per post

Josh Richards has 23.3 Million followers and 1.4 Billion likes. One thing that sets him apart from other influencers is how he has exerted effort in truly monetizing the platform. He has even opened his own talent management company, along with multiple other businesses.

@joshrichards

Every time we do this dance it slows down @noahbeck

? 1 Mill vids omg – ???

Arishfa Khan

Est. Earnings: $24,000 per post

An actress from India, she has 28.6 Million followers and 1.1 Billion likes. Many of her clips are comedic skits and lip-synchs, making her likable to more people. She is one of the richest TikTokers in her country and the world.

@_arishfakhan_

Tu matak le?? @iameshaankhan #arishfakhan #trending #comedyindia #funny

? original sound – Shoeb Khan

Michael Le

Est. Earnings: $12,000 to $15,000 per post

Michael Le has a lot of clips showing his multiple talents of singing and dancing. He also has skits showing his 9,000 square-foot home. He has collaborations with other social media personalities as well. Michael also has his own merch and weekly giveaways.

@justmaiko

?

? Adderall (Corvette Corvette) – Popp Hunna

Spencer X

Est. Earnings: $28,000 per post

With a total of 49 Million followers and 1.2 Billion likes. At 28, he is one of the oldest among these rich and youthful TikTok influencers. He is a well-loved prankster and his comedic content is what shot him to stardom. Being funny on the internet is one way to become popular. So, if you are an aspiring blogger and you have the talent for comedy, this kind of content might be worth giving a shot.

@spencerx

My best beatbox sound ???

? original sound – Spencer X

Zach King

Est. Earnings: $35,000 to $40,000 per post

King’s content is one of the most unique and is pretty much why he is so popular. He specializes in special effects and magic tricks in his clips. These are the kind of content many other TikTok users like replicating on their own pages. For any aspiring blogger or influencer, producing original (and highly entertaining) content like he does is one way to guarantee success. He has 52.9 Million followers and 627.3 Million likes.

@zachking

Who wants a #car wash?

? The Car Wash – Zach King

Charli D’Amelio

Earnings: $30,000 to $50,000 per post

It would seem that TikTok does not have enough dancers, Charli D’Amelio is considered as one of the most followed and second-highest-paid TikTok stars of 2020. She only joined the platform in mid-2019, she was shot to fame early this year for posting dance vlogs. She has brand partnerships with EOS Cosmetics and was even invited to Paris Fashion week for Prada. Although she lost almost a million followers in the past week due to a vlog mishap, it would look as though her earnings are unaffected and there are no changes to her status in TikTok royalty.

@charlidamelio

dc @yodamnmomma

? THICK (feat. Megan Thee Stallion) (Remix) – DJ Chose & Megan Thee Stallion

Aashika Bhatia

An actress from India, she is one of the wealthiest 19-year olds in the world. Being the fashion and beauty icon that she is, she has 16 Million followers and 495.4 million likes. Aashika is one of the top-earning TikTokers not only in India but also in Asia. It is believed that she charges about $190,000 for every sponsored post.

http://www.tiktok.com/@aashikabhatia/video/6843403504489352449?lang=en&sender_device=pc&sender_web_id=6898474553833817601&is_from_webapp=1

Also read: Amazing Quick Fixes for Creative Ruts

The post All the Young TikTok Influencers That Are Richer Than You appeared first on The Blog Herald.

Many bloggers and influencers encourage their audiences to do this. Social media has become a tool to create an image of a perfect life. Audiences see that the influencers and bloggers they follow earn so much, have nice cars, and live in beautiful homes. Not only that, they have amazing skin and perfect bodies. These influencers seem like happy, healthy, and wealthy individuals. Who wouldn’t be encouraged to manifest to become like the influencers you follow on social media?

Positive manifesting is more than just sharing quotes and memes on your social accounts. It is living, breathing, and believing positively and spiritually. It is so popular that there are so many blogs on “how-tos” online. Here are a few memes and quotes to tell you all about it:

Affirmation Quotes and Positivity One-Liners

The Spiritual “Law of Attraction”

This Law of Attraction is not the scientific one. However, it is a good thought to live by – be what you want to see, treat others how you want to treat them. Like attracts like.

Gotta Spread all that #PositiveVibessss

This is quite popular on social media right now and is a good way for influencers to get more followers. With the current situation of the world right now, people just want positive vibes in their lives. Momentary positivity can be a good thing sometimes.

A Requirement of Affirmation

Some share elves for luck. There are some that share likes for health. Others need to type “Amen” for spiritual blessing. This is what is interesting, and somewhat funny, about these quotes – the requirement for affirmation. These posts require liking, commenting, sharing, re-Tweeting, and reposting online, else bad luck is just around the corner (LOL).

Blessings from the Universe

The Dangers of Toxic Positivity

Living positively, looking at the brighter side, staying positive all the time – it could take a toll on people’s mental health. All these spiritual manifesting can turn into excessive positivity. It is understandable why bloggers and influencers create these kinds of content because their audiences want good vibes. Honestly, it is because positive content is quite enjoyable. However, a little bite of reality could keep a blogger or influencer’s content more balanced, and realistic.

It is not healthy to always be happy and positive. It is a good thing to also acknowledge the harsh realities of life and all the terrible things that could happen. Sometimes, coming out of a difficult situation can make a better person. It could give people a new perspective and it is also more relatable. So if you are a blogger so focused on positivity and spirituality, sometimes it is also healthy to show your audience that being a blogger or an influencer is not so perfect as people think.

Funny Memes and GIFs about Positive Manifesting

Spreading all the Good Vibes

via GIPHY

Self-Love and Peace

via GIPHY

MAKING THINGS HAPPEN!

via GIPHY

Love, Happiness, and Worthiness

via GIPHY

This. Is. All. We. Need. VALIDATION.

via GIPHY

Also read: Avoid Legal Battles by Knowing These 4 Blogging Laws

The post ‘Positive Manifesting’ Memes and Why People are so Hyped by it appeared first on The Blog Herald.

Elderly social media influencers are getting quite popular recently. There are models, brand representatives, dancers, and even singers online that are aged 50 and up. A lot of the youth, who consider the internet and technology as a second-nature thing, find it enjoyable to follow popular senior citizen influencers on social media. It is never too late to explore the wondrous world of the internet as it knows to age.

Here are some of the most adorable senior citizen influencers you should follow on social media:

#1 Baddie Winkle, Instagram

Age: 92

Number of Followers: 3.7 Million

Content: Fashion

She is one of the most followed elderly influencers on Instagram. This 92-year-old is a popular model who is known to be an IG Baddie. These are women who wear the latest trends, do their own makeup, and always look flawless.

 

View this post on Instagram

 

A post shared by BADDIE (@baddiewinkle) on Nov 16, 2019 at 7:23am PST

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#2 Iris Apfel, Instagram

She is known to be the oldest elderly influencer in the world! At the age of 99, she is still a fashion icon and a famous interior designer. It could be seen with the way she clothes herself and curates her Instagram page that she has an incredibly good eye for art.

Age: 99

Number of Followers: 1.6 Million

Content: Fashion

 

View this post on Instagram

 

A post shared by Iris Apfel (@iris.apfel) on Sep 29, 2020 at 9:42am PDT

//www.instagram.com/embed.js

#3 Icon Accidental, Instagram

A social media sensation and a fashion influencer, Accidental Icon are one of the most famous in the industry. She is not only famous for her age, but she is also made popular by her elegance and beauty.

Age: 66

Number of Followers: 748K

Content: Fashion and Modelling

 

View this post on Instagram

 

A post shared by Accidental Icon (@iconaccidental) on Sep 16, 2020 at 4:39am PDT

//www.instagram.com/embed.js

#4 Old Man Steve, TikTok

A typical Vine story, this old man became popular on TikTok just by preparing a sandwich. He is a self-learned man where he learned how to use TikTok through Google.

Age: 81

Number of Followers: 1.3M

Content: Comedy, Life, and General Vines

@omsteveGood morning y’all ##fyp ##foryou ##foryoupage ##oldmansteve ##cookingwithsteve ##peachpreserves♬ original sound – Old Man Steve

https://www.tiktok.com/embed.js

#5 Kimiko Nishimoto, Instagram

She is actually a photographer and is made popular as the ‘Insta-gran’. Her posts on Instagram are self-portraits showing an impressive exhibition of inventive photography.

Age: 90

Number of Followers: 224K

Content: Photography

 

View this post on Instagram

 

A post shared by 西本喜美子 (@kimiko_nishimoto) on May 22, 2020 at 1:08am PDT

//www.instagram.com/embed.js

#6 #MrStealYourGrandma, Instagram

Like George Clooney, men do age like wine. This Houston Grandpa is one of the suavest and good-looking Instagrandparents in the world. Fashionable, good looks, and a great body – we all wish we age just like him.

Age: 58

Number of Followers: 352K

Content: Fashion and Modelling

 

View this post on Instagram

 

Sunday Funday in Milwaukee @Mr.J’s Lounge Beard Contest @edhennings1

A post shared by too grown. (@irvinrandle) on Sep 20, 2020 at 12:32pm PDT

//www.instagram.com/embed.js

#7 Hypebeast Grandpa

He is actually a fruit vendor who got famous online because he loves Supreme and Hypebeast just like every Gen Z out there. Dresses like he is decades younger, he has been collecting impressive brand pieces that many collectors could be jealous of.

Age: mid-50s

Number of Followers: 53.2k

Content: Fashion and Modelling

 

View this post on Instagram

 

A post shared by Lance Walsh (@dinneranddance) on Jul 1, 2020 at 10:10am PDT

//www.instagram.com/embed.js

#8 J-Dog, Jenny Krupa, TikTok

Her hilariously truthful videos are what catapulted Grandma J (or J-Dog) into fame. She swears to never have watched a TikTok video in her life. Her most famous video is about the “Perks of Being Old” – a hilarious piece about the realities of being an elderly. We all wonder if she knows how popular she is on the internet.

Age: 88

Number of Followers: 1.7 M

Content: Cooking and parodies

@its_j_dogI think I won this trend lolzzzzz ##fyp♬ F2020 – Avenue Beat

https://www.tiktok.com/embed.js

#9 CookingWithLynja, TikTok

Age: Unknown

Number of Followers: 1.7M

Content: Cooking

Who does not want to eat grandma’s cooking every day? This beloved grandma teaches everything about food. It is one of the most adorable and wholesome contents on the internet!

@cookingwithlynjaLet’s get Crackin’ ##cooking ##recipes ##fyp ##crablegs♬ original sound – Lynja

https://www.tiktok.com/embed.js

Also Read: Platforms for Guest Blogging and Why You Should have Collaborative Content

The post 9 of the Most Adorable Senior Citizen Influencers You Should Follow appeared first on The Blog Herald.

It is true that bloggers and influencers earn by the thousands for almost every post they have. When an influencer posts content, it will surely earn depending on viewer interactions. If the posted content is sponsored by brands, then the influencer or blogger will earn even more. This is why bloggers and influencers earn much more than “conventional” jobs.

However, with their high earnings come high expenses as well. This is especially true for newbie or beginner bloggers. For instance, travel bloggers would need to fund their own expenses at the beginning of their blogging careers. Once they get famous, brands could finally provide sponsorships for influencers and bloggers. For those doing lifestyle blogs, they would need to buy makeup, skincare, and other products to start up their blogs. Starting up blogs and YouTube channels would require investments at the beginning before the benefits could be reaped from brand sponsorships and talent fees.

Instagram to charge a commission on paid links

It is already a downside that Instagram does not allow users to put links in captions of posts. The only option for users is to create a “Link in Bio” option or create a shortened (bit.ly) version of the original link. However, the actual links to sites are not allowed on post captions. However, Protocol has discovered that the social media giant Facebook is applying for a patent allowing users to “add paid links to media captions in a social networking system”. The website even included a link to the actual patent application.

It seems that Instagram will allow users to add links to their posts but a pop-up will appear asking if the “user wants to activate the link” for a fee. It is currently unclear how the user will pay the fee, the taxes involved, and the actual amount. Of course, brands hiring social media influencers to market their brands would prefer that the actual link be posted. This may be a clear preference over the shortened version of the original link. It would seem that influencers and bloggers could get some additional, unwanted expenses. But it may be a small fee compared to the social media marketing fee they would get from a brand. If brands are generous enough, they could cover this fee on top of the social media marketing fee of the influencer or blogger.

However, days after the announcement that Instagram may charge a commission on influencers’ paid links, the company has released a statement clarifying that it is not going to happen soon. Also, they have clarified that they have “no plans” of adding such functions in their platform. Can they deny the actual patent application? Maybe not. Only one thing is for sure, it won’t happen right now but the charges may come in the future. Hopefully, not sooner than what everyone is expecting.

Social media platforms charging commissions

This is not the first time social media platforms charge fees from businesses and pages. However, it looks like it is the first time that Instagram and Facebook will charge fees directly from influencers and bloggers. Particularly, Facebook charges fees for ads. Particularly for the Facebook shop, the social media giant will charge transaction fees at 5% for every transaction. There is also a charge back fee of 20USD for every transaction withdrawals.

Users can also be charged transaction fees as well. For instance, users could get VIP statuses where there will be no ads on any of their interactions with Facebook. This is the same for Instagram where there are sponsored ads in between timeline posts from users.

Also Read: Hiring CGI Influencers Now a Trend for Brands: What it Means for the Future of Blogging

The post Unwanted Expenses for Bloggers: Instagram May Charge Fees for Links in Captions appeared first on The Blog Herald.

Technology may be a bit daunting for their age, but various aids could help them adapt to such technologies. What the world needs to learn, on the other hand, is how to communicate well so that these seniors easily understand social norms being used online. Maybe learn to practice how to be wary of who could see what is being posted on social media. Perhaps having these elders on the online community can help people learn how to be more proactive when posting things.

Here are a few examples of blogger and influencer grandparents who are popular right now:

Instagram Grandparents from Taiwan

A pair of Taiwanese grandparents became instant Instagram celebrities after they posed for trendy photos featuring abandoned clothing. They own a local laundry business and they do have a couple piles of abandoned clothing from their store. This Instagram page is something that brings the couple enjoyment. There are actually a good number of popular elderly social media influencers and Instagram bloggers.

 

View this post on Instagram

 

A post shared by 萬秀的洗衣店｜WANT SHOW as young (@wantshowasyoung) on Aug 13, 2020 at 6:00am PDT

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It was their grandson’s idea to create an Instagram page for the couple to feature all the abandoned clothing they have collected through the years. In just a month, they have gained more than 600,000 followers. Many people are awed for their wittiness and a good majority surely coo from the cuteness. Their Instagram page is surely enough to give a daily dose of cuteness that could easily melt anyone’s hearts. The couple became so popular that they were even featured in both Marie Clare and Vogue.

Through the years they have donated so many pieces of clothing to charity, the majority of which were abandoned in their laundry business. One of the advocacies that their Instagram page promotes is sustainable fashion. It is their way of teaching their followers that clothing could be re-worn even if they are not “in-season”. Instead of buying new clothes every so often, maybe thinking about how to recreate old clothes or second-hand clothes could be a challenge.

Gamer Grandma from Japan

Another popular social media star is Japan’s Gamer Grandma who has a following of more than 300,000 after her YouTube channel was launched in 2015. Hamako Mori, an almost centenarian grandma from Chiba, Japan, is known to be the oldest video game YouTuber in the world. Based on interviews, she has been gaming for more than 30 years and regrets none of it. In her life as a gamer, she has played more than 200 titles. She’s known to play Skyrim, Dauntless, and countless other games citing that Grand Theft Auto is her favorite.

[youtube https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=3A5XlyF7UY8]

Because she has started gaming decades ago, she probably went through almost all kinds of consoles. Aside from her gaming, her channel is also well-known for her collection of videogame consoles – one that shows the revolution of gaming and technology through time. Her YouTube channel claims that she plays for hours on end and sometimes even plays up to 2:00 A.M., just like any game fanatic. She claims that games looked too fun and it would be unfair if adults don’t get to play these games for children.

“Dadvice” For Everyone

Another social media influencer that is too adorable for words is a dad from the US that teaches “dadvice” on YouTube. He said he created his channel to provide advice to anyone on the internet on how to do things you usually ask your dad about. This includes usage of tools, repairs for cars, fixing stuff at home, and all those kinds of stuff.

[youtube https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=XAjlgMMWvi0]

According to his page, he grew up without a dad and understands that doing certain things could be difficult. Now, knowing what he experienced, he wants to be a dad for anyone who needs dadvice. Anyone could even send him an email asking “Dad, How Do I…” so that he could personally reply or even post a video related to the query.

Social Media and Blogging for All Ages

All these go to show that the internet knows no age and nothing about it is “too Millennial”. The internet and all the technologies developed to aid it, is made for mankind of all ages, gender, and race. Maybe we think that seeing grandparents on social media is a dime a dozen. However, seeing influencers and bloggers that are within that age range is truly rare. There are resources on the internet that provides tutorials for any grandparent out there that still wants to learn the ups and downs of social media. There are even a good number of blogs and websites that are great for grandparents.

Also Read: These Incredible Hologram Machines Could Change the Vlogging Game Forever

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The Possibility of a TikTok and Twitter Merger

TikTok has gained even more following after the lockdown protocols were imposed throughout the country. The social media platform entertains its users and brings out talents that are hidden from plain view.  However, Twitter has gained a consistent multi-million following for almost a decade now. This is why there are continuous murmurings about the possibility of this merger. Experts can’t stop asking, why? Right now it is unclear why Twitter is considering buying TikTok. There could be a variety of reasons. Maybe it is to create a new social media platform featuring both capabilities of Twitter and TikTok. It may also be to incorporate TikTok’s video-sharing capabilities on Twitter.

Sadly, Twitter has not publicly addressed that they are truly discussing a merger with TikTok. Up until now, Twitter has declined to comment.

Really, But Microsoft and TikTok?

Hearing about Twitter buying off TikTok seems natural. But, Microsoft eyeing to buy a large social media platform? That is quite a surprising move because unlike Twitter, Microsoft is no social media expert. What is crazy about this is that Microsoft has confirmed publicly that they are in talks with ByteDance for a possible sale.

It is widely known that the social media platform is the largest of its kind and might be the only one that has sustained its popularity for a long period of time. In the US alone, TikTok has millions of users that range from people who are on TikTok just to watch videos to highly monetized influencers. Many companies have also used TikTok for paid advertising and they have gained significant sales throughout the years.

A number of experts are trying to question why Microsoft is interested in buying TikTok. Maybe it is to penetrate a newer venture and there is no better way than to start with a popular video-sharing app such as TikTok.  It may also be to gain TikTok’s IP for Microsoft’s marketing of games. One of the most likely, but the least likely to succeed, is to run TikTok just as it is and maintain its features until a merger is complete.

What buying Tiktok Could Mean

For the Users

There is an upside to the possibility that Microsoft buying out Tiktok and it is the continuity of the social media platform. This is not the first time that users had to deal with a social media platform’s change of ownership. In fact, Instagram was bought off by a large media company from its original owners. The users survived that well. The downside – it is possible that services will be affected. Bug fixes and updates may be unavailable until a merger is complete. It is also possible that customer support will be unavailable. In this case, with the decrease in user experience pushing towards a large unfollowing from users. Because of this, there are possibilities that monetization for influencers will go down. The ripple effect goes on.

For Twitter

The social media platform, Twitter, already has a large following and the purchase of TikTok is not necessarily to boost their sales and market. Maybe, they are considering a “combination” but not really to run TikTok as a separate platform. The video-sharing aspect may create a tackier Twitter, but could still be enjoyed by millions of users. There could be a mixed reaction there.

For Microsoft

Many experts are still wondering why Microsoft is eyeing a purchase of the TikTok app. Firstly, the traditional culture of the Microsoft crowd consisted of mostly Millenials is a different mix to the bacchanal TikTok market made up of a younger and more hip crowd. There could be a possibility that Microsoft is trying to penetrate that market so that their future products may be sellable on a wider scale. Also, they may be simply trying to penetrate the social media market and make TikTok their own.

For TikTok

Out of all the stakeholders in this scenario, TikTok is pretty much on the losing end. A sale could mean a multi-million price tag. However, if TikTok was maintained for a longer time ByteDance might be able to earn more than the multi-million amount. Also, there could be some political risks here since it is a multi-national acquisition.

Also Read: How to be like Elon Musk: An Influencer CEO

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We begin with 5 social media blogs to know about. Why follow social media blogs? Because social media has evolved from merely being about networking and interaction to being about business, sales, and employment.

Read: When to Revise Your Content Marketing Strategy

It’s always good to know what’s out there. Here are some social media blogs we recommend you check out:

1. inc.com

I am a visual person and I love the layout of the Inc.com blog: simple and straightforward. They have a way of presenting their endless content without their site looking cluttered and boring. I especially enjoy their Highlights carousel. Their design is almost instinctive: from the top story to other highlights for the day and other content for founders.

I love that they have content for startups, which is encouraging and empowering for aspiring entrepreneurs. Their other sections cover the journey and aspects of a social media startup: growth, leadership, innovation, and more. All these in an uncluttered layout that is almost instinctive; you won’t get overwhelmed or confused.

2. neilpatel.com

Neil Patel is one of those marketing experts who love to share what they know so that others won’t have a hard time getting started. He seems to love seeing others succeed, and he always does so with a smile. His refreshing take on social media marketing is borne from his own experience: his hits and misses, failures, and lessons hard-learned.

Check out Neil Patel’s blog and watch your first educational video today. Or choose any of his podcast entries and learn as you drive, or even as you do your chores (if you believe in subliminal programming). His website is perfect for SEO newbies (like me!) because it is rich in tips, tricks, and other educational content as far as SEO is concerned.

3. socialmediaexaminer.com

Social media is, indeed, a jungle; and Social Media Examiner aims to help one navigate this ever-changing jungle and successfully find their way. Behind it is the Social Media Marketing Society, a support group and network of experts in social media marketing. It was founded by Michael Stelzner in 2009 amid the Great Recession (as featured in the film “The Big Short“).

Social Media Examiner presents its content as articles, video tutorials, and shows. They even have events. They have a weekly podcast simply called “Social Media Marketing Podcast” hosted by Stelzner. There’s something for everybody. You won’t leave their blog without knowing a new thing or two about social media marketing and the latest news.

4. socialmediatoday.com

Here’s another social media blog that’s as refreshing to the eyes as it is on the mind. They mostly feature two types of content: news (because one must always be in the know) and how-to’s (because one must always learn the newest tech or feature). What’s the latest in the world of social media? What are people talking about in social media? They’re all here.

Social Media Today also hosts live chats with members of their community. These live chats are learning sessions that double as networking sessions; a way to speak with experts “face to face.” They are uploaded into the site afterward so you can watch what you missed. Social Media Today also shares tools for social, content, and digital strategy and marketing.

5. sociallysorted.com.au

It is good to follow a wide assortment of social media blogs. They help us understand the many facets of social media marketing, especially the different approaches one can take with it.

Socially Sorted is an award-winning blog founded by Donna Moritz, a visual content strategist. This blog is all about visual storytelling and how to ramp up your visual content strategy game.

According to getgist.com, “Visual marketing campaigns are more likely to be shared and get clicks than text ads would.”

Other facts they list are:

1. Humans process visuals 60,000 faster than text
2. Consumers can retain 80% of visuals they see and only 20% of the text they read
3. A human’s ability to concentrate is lost at 8 seconds — shorter than that of a goldfish

Read: How to Make Your Blog Accessible to Disabled Users with accessiBe

Is there a social media blog you follow that we were not able to include in this list? Tell us about it in the comments and why you follow it. We would be more than happy to learn from you, too!

Next week, we will list 5 lifestyle blogs to know about in 2020. Stay tuned!

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