In 2025, I’m challenging myself to write and publish a blog post every single day. It might sound crazy and blogs feel so 1999 and definitely aren’t trendy right now. But this isn’t about reach, likes, shares, or any platform metric. It’s about showing up, refining my ideas, and building a writing habit.
I owe this idea to the man who inspired me to get into marketing in the first place, Seth Godin. He’s been running his daily blog since 2002, and showing up every day.
Also inspired by Seth Godin, I’ve set some rules for myself. These are the guidelines I’ll follow throughout this challenge.
1 – Show up every day and write. This challenge is about building a daily habit, so no batch writing or scheduling posts in advance. Each article will be fresh, written, and published on the same day. The posts won’t be perfect, and that’s okay.
2 – Be real. And no, I don’t mean the social media app that had its moment. I mean authentic and genuine. Every blog will be rooted in personal experiences, real stories, real lessons, and real reflections.
3 – Keep it Simple. To remove any unnecessary barriers I will keep the format simple. Every post will have a simple format, a title and a body.
The posts don’t have to be as long as this one; they just need to communicate an idea clearly each day.
4 – Ignore the urge to promote and distribute. No social media posts or cringy LinkedIn posts promoting my blog. This challenge is personal. If you, the reader, want to follow along, you’re welcome to visit the website. I may add a subscription option later, but for now, my focus is entirely on the writing.
5 – No metrics, no monetization. I won’t even have Google Analytics installed, feel free to check for yourself. This challenge isn’t about reach, subscribers, or making money. I won’t track how many people read these posts. They’re free and available to anyone, but the focus is solely on the act of writing.
6 – Authenticity before trends. Avoiding metrics will help me stay focused on writing what matters to me, not chasing topics just because they might get more clicks or attention.
7 – Full transparency. Life happens. On the days when I’m unwell, traveling, or facing personal challenges, I will probably have pre-written articles to go out but they will be labeled as such.
8 – No ChatGPT. Sure, it’s tempting to write a prompt and have 20 articles churned out by everyone’s favorite LLM, but that would completely defeat the purpose of this challenge. I’ll only use it for proofreading and grammar improvements.
9 – Full commitment. I will not go to sleep without publishing a post. This single rule will drive push out a blog every day, no matter what.
Social media platforms have long been hailed as spaces for connection, entertainment, and sharing joy. They serve as windows into the lives of others, allowing us to peer into the world and, at times, marvel at the experiences they offer. However, over the past few days, this narrative has taken a sad turn, as a wave of distressing news continues to flood in from Palestine.
In the digital age, social media plays a pivotal role in disseminating information. Meta, who knows this all too well, seems to be limiting any mentions of Palestine on its platforms. As a significant global event unfolds before our eyes, content creators and social media users have awakened to a disheartening reality—severe reductions in the reach of their content. What’s more troubling is the scarcity of attention this issue has received, with major tech news outlets remaining conspicuously silent on the shadowban affecting Palestine-related content.
This shadowban, which has gone largely unnoticed, involves Meta labeling content related to Palestine as “sensitive.” This tagging severely limits the number of people who can access and view such content. The labeling process is driven by picking up on keywords within the content and an analysis of the images accompanying the posts or Stories..
Overcoming the Shadowban:
In response to this situation, users have been experimenting with various methods to bypass the shadowban. Here are some strategies that have proven effective for those affected:
Adjust Sensitive Content Settings: Users can modify their account settings to allow sensitive content. By going to Settings > Suggested Content > Sensitive Content, you can change it to “More,” enabling you to view Palestine-related content.
Diversify Your Content: To break the cycle of censorship, it is advisable not to solely post about Palestine. Intermingle your posts with unrelated content to regain visibility in the Stories feed.
Create Original Content: Instead of merely sharing content from others, try to recreate and remix it to make it appear fresh. Original content is less likely to be flagged as sensitive.
Explore Alternative Platforms: Instead of relying solely on Meta-owned platforms like Instagram and Facebook, consider using platforms like X (Twitter) and Telegram, which have not imposed similar restrictions. These platforms are used by journalists for a reason.
Engage Actively: Engaging with other content within the same topic can elevate your content’s visibility within the algorithm. Think of it as a way to “force” it to reach a broader audience.
Direct Sharing: Don’t limit yourself to Meta-owned channels or mainstream social media. Share your story through various networks and channels to ensure it’s heard widely.
Remember Your Humanity:
What is currently transpiring in Gaza is an affront to humanity. In times like these, it is imperative that we remember our shared humanity. Human lives are at stake, and as the world watches in pain, censorship is inexcusable. We must not allow the silencing of this critical issue.
The apparent shadowban on Palestine-related content on social media platforms raises significant concerns about censorship on a global scale. As users strive to overcome these limitations, the world must pay heed to the broader implications of such actions and champion the values of free expression and empathy in our interconnected digital age.
How Can You Help?
How can you make a difference? There are several humanitarian organizations that you can lend your support to.
Every week, I provide a summary of the latest digital marketing news, saving you the time and effort of going through it all yourself.
If you’ve been enjoying the newsletter thus far, it would mean a lot to us if you could take a moment this week to share it with someone you believe would also benefit from it.
During the recent Connect event, Meta introduced a range of exciting AI experiences that are set to transform the way we engage with technology. Here’s what’s happening:
Get Ready to Meet 28 Unique AIs: Meta is taking AI interactions to the next level by introducing 28 AIs, each with its own distinct interests and personalities. These AIs are designed to deepen your engagement with your favorite topics and activities.
Direct Interaction via Messaging Platforms: One of the most exciting developments is the ability to interact directly with these AIs through messaging platforms. For those of you who are part of the beta product rollout in the U.S., you’ll soon be able to send them messages on Instagram or Messenger.
Social Profiles for AIs: But that’s not all! Meta is also rolling out social profiles for these AIs on Facebook and Instagram. Now, you can follow these AI personalities and get to know them better. You’ll find that some of these profile pictures might seem familiar, as Meta has partnered with well-known public figures to represent these AI characters. It’s important to note that these familiar faces are embodying the characters, not themselves. Check them out here.
Creating Visual Content with AI: When Meta generates images for social posts using AI, you’ll spot #ImaginedWithAI in the post along with a watermark on the lower left-hand corner of the image. This is a testament to the power of AI-driven visual content creation.
AI-Generated Responses: The responses you receive from these AIs via direct messages are generated using Meta’s cutting-edge AI technology. This means you can look forward to engaging and personalized interactions with these AI personalities.
Even more exciting, this opportunity will soon be available to all. For brands, having Meta manage an AI character on their behalf could bring significant benefits, revolutionizing audience engagement. Social media moderators get ready for some change.
From the creators of one of our favorite social media channels comes a new platform for us to watch out for. Kevin Systrom and Mike Krieger teamed up once again and have launched Artifact. A news aggregator that just now introduced social discussions feature making it a social media platform. Artifact aims to use AI to learn your interests and keep you up-to-date with the information and inspiration that matters most to you.
Instagram Gifts are now accessible in more countries around the world, making it easier for creators to receive support from fans who love their content. Instagram
Another attempt to get us to livestream our life. Meta announces an improved Ray-Ban Meta Smart Glasses. The Verge
Breaking the uncanny valley. Mark Zuckerberg and Lex FriedmanInterview in the Metaverse. Worth watching. YouTube
Meta Connect 2023: Everything you need to know about Quest 3 VR, Ray-Ban smart glasses and Meta AI – TechCrunch
Meta is trying out a “Boost” button for stories shared via Instagram. Twitter
TikTok:
TikTok Launches ‘Creative Assistant’ To Help Guide Ad Creation Process – Social Media Today
In major blow to TikTok, Indonesia bans e-commerce transactions on social media – Reuters
WhatsApp:
WhatsApp is introducing Flows for a richer in-app shopping experience TechCrunch
WhatsApp Channels will be available globally soon Twitter
Reddit:
Reddit Publishes New Guide to Key Ads Best Practices – Social Media Today
You can now make a living from Reddit? Reddit will start paying you real money for good posts – TechCrunch
Google:
Google launched AI-powered tools to power up your Search Ads – Google Ads Help
YouTube rolls out video view campaigns globally. According to Google VVCs help advertisers achieve 40% more views on average than in-stream skippable CPV campaigns – Google Ads Help
Links are not a top 3 Google Search ranking factor, says an analyst on the Google Search team – Search Engine Land
Another one joins the Google Cemetery. Google Optimize sunsets this weekend – Search Engine Land
Snapchat:
Snap partners with Microsoft Advertising to power Sponsored Links within My AI – MSPoweruser
Shopify Audiences supercharges customer acquisition with new Snap, Criteo, and TikTok integrations – Shopify News
LinkedIn:
LinkedIn introduces the Revenue Attribution Report. A new report that measures the influence your LinkedIn marketing has on revenue – LinkedIn
Other Updates:
Artifact is becoming Twitter, too, thanks to new posts feature – The Verge
Telegram starts to look like a super app, echoing WeChat – TechCrunch
You can now create AI generated videos on Canva – Canva
Brand Watch
Polestar Crafts the Perfect TikTok
In a time when unhinged content prevails on social channels created solely for the purpose of gaining attention and being shocking, Polestar stands out as a breath of fresh air with its purposeful and impeccably executed content. In their latest TikTok video, they successfully combine elegance with internet culture and inject humor without compromising their brand.
So What?
What made this work is how they found a key product feature to use as an anchor for the joke that involves dodging online comments. The community manager or creative team deserves recognition for truly understanding the product and brand, as well as grasping online humor and effectively combining the two. I suggest trying this approach for your product. Focus on a key feature and relate it to a human or common situation that your audience can relate to. You will earn bonus points if you can make it humorous.
If you’re not familiar with Jason Cohen, I suggest starting with this video. He consistently shares valuable information through his free newsletter, which is quite impressive considering his successful track record with two unicorn exits.
Every week, I provide a summary of the latest digital marketing news, saving you the time and effort of going through it all yourself.
If you’ve been enjoying the newsletter thus far, it would mean a lot to us if you could take a moment this week to share it with someone you believe would also benefit from it.
YouTube has recently introduced two exciting updates for content creators. The first one is YouTube Create, a cutting-edge video editing app that aims to enhance the editing experience for users. This app will provide creators with powerful tools and features to edit their videos seamlessly.
Auto captions – Available in English, Hindi, and Spanish
Filters, effects and transitions – Simplified video editing tools, all presented on a single screen
Access to royalty free songs and sound effects
Direct publishing to YouTube – Including both Shorts and long form content
Additionally, YouTube has unveiled Dream Screen, an innovative feature that allows users to generate AI-generated video or image backgrounds effortlessly. All users need to do is simply type in what they want to see, and Dream Screen will generate a visually stunning background accordingly.
Time to change all the Facebook assets again. Dust off those Facebook icons on your website and good luck if you have them printed on your product packaging or brochures. Facebook has an updated design that is not too different from its previous design.
Not all social media channels are for scale and reaching new people. Some are for a closer group and serve a purpose. Partiful streamlines the process of planning and communicating with guests. It’s great for when you don’t have everyone’s phone numbers or socials, like when you’re inviting friends-of-friends. You get a single link to share on any platform.
Partiful is also great for:
Listed events (where you want to approve each guest)
Parties when you need to ask questions of guests (e.g. dietary restrictions)
When you need to collect money via Venmo, CashApp, or PayPal
Expanding Meta Verified to Businesses. This will include business authentication with a verified badge, impersonation protection, access to account support, and features to help your business stand out. [Facebook]
Whatsapp:
WhatsApp has recently introduced animated avatars, a feature that was already available on Telegram. Not to be cynical, but it seems that we can now anticipate WhatsApp’s product roadmap by observing the features that Telegram has already released. [Xeet / Tweet]
Whatsapp Channels are going global. Expect it to hit your market soon. [Whatsapp]
Google:
Google has made it clear that it expects advertisers to include their logo and brand name on the landing pages of their ads, effective from September 25, 2023. Yes this will affect your Adrank. [Google]
YouTube:
Which Mr Beast thumbnail works best: mouth open or closed? With the new YouTube tool, you won’t need third-party tools to A/B test your YouTube thumbnails. [Xeet / Tweet]
LinkedIn:
LinkedIn Adds A Brand Partnership Search to Discover Posts Created by Creators on Behalf of Brands [Lindsey Gamble]
TikTok:
Don’t drop SEO from your marketing strategy just yet. TikTok is testing Google results in its search pages [The Verge]
New labels for disclosing AI-generated content [TikTok]
TikTok introduces Attribution Analytics: TikTok’s first-party measurement solution that enables web advertisers to go beyond the last-click model and truly understand the customer journey on TikTok. [TikTok]
These are the products you are not allowed to sell through TikTok Shop [TikTok]
Snap has partnered with Microsoft Advertising to power Sponsored Links within My AI [Snap]
Maybe don’t dismiss Snap just yet. Snapchat now has over 5M paying users for Snapchat+ [Techcrunch]
How to become a verified Snap Star? Simple fill up the form and cross your fingers. [Snap Support]
Amazon:
Amazon’s Prime Video to include ads from 2024 unless you pay more [SkyNews]
Newsletter to Consider
If you’re not familiar with Jason Cohen, I suggest starting with this video. He consistently shares valuable information through his free newsletter, which is quite impressive considering his successful track record with two unicorn exits.
Every week, I provide a summary of the latest digital marketing news, saving you the time and effort of going through it all yourself.
If you’ve been enjoying the newsletter thus far, it would mean a lot to us if you could take a moment this week to share it with someone you believe would also benefit from it.
Clubhouse, the platform we’ve known for its social audio rooms, is undergoing quite the makeover. They’re rebranding themselves as more of a messaging app.
They’ve introduced something called “chats.” Picture it like those group Instagram stories, but with a twist – it’s all about voice! You start a chat by recording a voice message, and your friends can hop in, adding their own voice notes. It’s like creating a lively voice collage or having a fun conversation.
So What?
The social media landscape is always evolving. Clubhouse’s focus on personal, voice-based interactions is a signal that user engagement and tailored content are becoming more important than ever. While they’ll still support live audio rooms, the heart of Clubhouse seems to be leaning towards cozy chats over big broadcasts.
Did you know that iPhone users tend to spend seven times more on apps compared to Android users? This is a fascinating statistic that highlights the strong engagement and enthusiasm of iPhone users when it comes to exploring and purchasing apps. This should not be a surprise to anyone that has been keeping a close eye on their website and user analytics. This just reinforces what we know as iPhone users continue to be the big spenders online.
Here is a social channel that you might have overlooked. Peanut is a social media channel that aims to connect mothers at various stages. Peanut marks itself as a “Safe space for women to meet and find support” Peanut allows mothers to create profiles, connect with other moms in their area, and join group chats based on shared interests or experiences. The platform also provides a forum for discussions on topics such as pregnancy, parenting, and mental health. With features like a swipe-based interface and personalized matching, Peanut offers a convenient and inclusive space for mothers to connect, share advice, and find support in their motherhood journey.
Google PageSpeed Insights is updated with new features from Lighthouse 11 [SEARCH ENGINE JOURNAL]
Google Site names now work for all languages. So if your site is not in English, check how your Site name appears in Google Search. [SEARCH ENGINE LAND]
A Comedy of Errors – Search Console Errors as explained by Google [GOOGLE]
New level of YouTube Partner Program (YPP) to launch in 33 more countries soon.
LinkedIn:
LinkedIn page admins should expect a drop in the number of Page Followers. [TWEET]
TikTok:
Similar to YouTube, TikTok now allows users to hum to search for a song. [TWEET]
AI Marketing:
eBay rolls out a tool that generates product listings from photos [TECHCRUNCH]
Newsletter to Consider
If you’re not familiar with Jason Cohen, I suggest starting with this video. He consistently shares valuable information through his free newsletter, which is quite impressive considering his successful track record with two unicorn exits.
Marketing in today’s landscape often calls for unconventional strategies, and Liquid Death, the canned water brand, is no stranger to pushing boundaries. In a recent campaign, the brand took an edgy turn by inserting strands of Steve-O’s hair into 300 voodoo dolls, with the belief that this would make him experience every pin prick, punch, and burn inflicted on these figures.
While this move might sound bizarre, it aligns with Liquid Death’s commitment to stand out in a crowded market. The brand’s willingness to embrace the unconventional and occasionally flirt with the supernatural or dark themes underscores its focus on entertainment over traditional marketing.
So What?
As marketing managers, there are valuable lessons to be learned here. Liquid Death’s approach reminds us of the importance of daring to be different. While not every strategy needs to involve voodoo dolls, it’s essential to think outside the box to capture attention and generate buzz.
In an age where consumers are bombarded with marketing messages, embracing a playful and edgy approach can help your brand break through the noise. Liquid Death’s unique campaigns serve as a reminder that, sometimes, a touch of the unexpected can be a powerful tool in your marketing arsenal.
Every week, I provide a summary of the latest digital marketing news, saving you the time and effort of going through it all yourself.
If you’ve been enjoying the newsletter thus far, it would mean a lot to us if you could take a moment this week to share it with someone you believe would also benefit from it.
Infleucner Marketing
Perfectly Imperfect Or Just A Bad Take? We can spend all day picking apart a perfect video to make it better, or just wing it and go with the first take. Which do you think will get more engagement?
In a recent video partnership, Gwyneth Paltrow seems to be just winging it. Low-angled camera, a bad mic, and someone steaming milk in the background—perfect conditions for a brand partnership video.
While the ad may have appeared like a disaster, it actually contains a core ingredient that got people talking about it and sharing it, authenticity. Most people skip ads because they feel like ads. In this video, we have Gwyneth talking to us from her kitchen. What could be more natural than that?
So What? Stop trying to be perfect. The occasional mistake in your work makes you seem more human, more relatable. This has been a tried-and-true formula for a while and is the reason UGC ads are on the rise with brands.
P.S. All typos in this article have been intentional unless stated otherwise.
WeAre8 is not just your typical social media platform; it’s designed to be sustainable in multiple dimensions. This app is dedicated to empowering creators who are committed to making the world a better place by promoting feel-good content. What sets it apart is its innovative business model: WeAre8 compensates users for watching ads, contributes to charitable causes, and consistently invests in climate solutions every month.
Google’s expandable carousel search snippet feature informs searchers which other webpages mention a website. [SEARCH ENGINE LAND]
User feedback: Our users are able to provide feedback on every ad they are served on our platform, based on whether they had a positive or negative experience with that ad.
Advertising history: It’s important that advertisers have a record of adhering to our advertising policies.
Advertiser Identity Verification: Completing our Advertiser Identity Verification process is an important step in building trust between users and advertisers. [GOOGLE]
Coca-Cola’s recent campaign for its Coke Studio music platform seeks to enhance out-of-home engagement through aesthetically appealing and interactive QR codes, departing from the traditional black-and-white grids. This innovative approach was inspired by creative technologist and artist Troy Ni, who shared artistic QR codes on Reddit back in June, inspiring other artists and creators to explore unique QR code designs.
Ni harnessed the power of Stable Diffusion and ControlNet technology, which utilizes AI, showcasing another example of how cutting-edge technology is influencing both art and advertising.
While this week is ‘Back to School’ week, here are the top headlines in the field of digital marketing to help you reclaim some of your time and spend it with your family.
If you find it helpful, be sure to share it with a friend!
Have a scoop that I missed? Drop me a reply or hit me up on Threads or X.
TikTok TikTok Launches Search Ads Toggle TikTok’s latest ad placement feature is not just another addition; it represents a significant milestone for the platform, which has witnessed a substantial surge in usage among its younger audience.
Furthermore, you have the flexibility to switch your Search campaign on or off mid-flight without having to reinitiate the learning phase. And if you prefer not to use this feature altogether, you can easily deactivate it.
So What? This new option places your product in front of users actively seeking solutions, mirroring the functionality of ads on search engines. This feature holds significant value, particularly with the holiday season just around the corner.
SOCIAL NETWORK OF THE WEEK
BeFake
Every day, it seems like there’s a new social media network popping up. Each week, I’ll introduce you to one of these newcomers, just for fun. You’ve probably heard of beReal, but have you ever come across BeFake?
Similar to BeReal, here, you’ve got a brief window during the day to share your photos. The twist? Your photos get a touch of AI magic.
You can search for branded content (any posts with the Paid Partnership label) in Meta’s Ad Library now. [BOOKMARK THIS]
Creators can link unto 5 shops in their profiles [TWEET]
Threads:
The web version of Threads is now live after Mark Zuckerberg teased it earlier in the week [BBC]
X / Twitter Updates:
Time to run ads on X / Twitter again. X is giving away $250 USD in ad credit when spending $1,000 USD or more on a new campaign within the next 30 days. [TWEET]
Elon might be removing the Block feature from X / Twitter. This has many up in arms on safety on the platform. [TECHCRUNCH]
Job listings on X are now available for iOS users in the US. [TWEET]
TikTok Updates:
TikTok is serious about its search game. This week they have announced “TikTok Search Ads” a new feature on TikTok Ads Manager that allows brands to serve ads in search results. [TIKTOK]
YouTube Updates:
YouTube’s new feature will identify songs just by the sound of your hum [ZDNET]
LinkedIn Updates:
Major updates to how Newsletters work on LinkedIn. [LINKEDIN]
Pages can now host more than one newsletter to focus on different niches
Publisher has a new look and feel for easier editing
Improved discoverability with Autofollow when a user subscribes
To raise awareness about the critical need to safeguard forests, Greenpeace has introduced a distinctive product known as ‘The Scent of Consciousness.’ This car air freshener doesn’t carry the typical pine scent; instead, it captures the aroma of smoke from the devastating fires that harm our ecosystems.
So What?
Breaking it down, this campaign focuses on gathering votes for a referendum through a straightforward form. What sets it apart is its clever use of compelling storytelling and the introduction of a rather unique real-world product, an air freshener that emits the scent of burnt wood. This approach undeniably grabs attention and effectively translates it into action.
Every week, I bring you a summary of the need-to-know news in the world of digital marketing. No fluff, just the good stuff.
If you find it helpful, be sure to share it with a friend!
LinkedIn Snoop Dogg x LinkedIn: A Mic-Dropping Connection! So, there’s been some buzz on LinkedIn lately. A newbie just shot up to “Top Voice” status in record time, and it’s got everyone talking. And guess who joined the LinkedIn party? None other than the legendary Snoop Dogg.
Snoop didn’t waste any time making his mark. In his very first post, he dropped some knowledge about the importance of artists, especially rappers, teaming up with advertisers.
Snoop Dogg’s LinkedIn debut proves that this platform isn’t just for suits and ties. It’s a place where all kinds of folks, even rap legends, can share their thoughts and shape conversations.
So What? Snoop’s launch on LinkedIn reminds us that the platform isn’t just for business talk. It’s a space where different worlds collide, sparking interesting discussions and unexpected connections.
Updates
Instagram Updates:
Instagram is testing new comment metric that will show up on posts [SOCIAL MEDIA TODAY]
Multi-advertiser ads are coming – 4 ads sharing one single screen between Intsagram Reels. Spoler alert, they dont look great. [X]
Instagram CEO Mosseri shares how some creators are using AI to help create content [THREAD]
Instagram also allows you to create a social channel for chatting instead of a broadcast channel where chatting isn’t allowed. [X]
Meta Engineers explain how the Explore ranking system works [META]
Threads:
Zuckerberg teases the release of a Tweetdeck clone [THREAD]
Adidas’ Liquid Billboard advertising campaign has secured the prestigious Outdoor Grand Prix at the esteemed Cannes Lions International Festival of Creativity. This campaign showcased Adidas’ inclusive swimwear collection, designed to empower women of diverse body types, abilities, and backgrounds. Its core message? Encouraging women to embrace public swimming without any inhibitions.
Notably, this campaign marked a milestone for Adidas, featuring their swimmable billboard. Positioned on a Dubai beach, this innovative installation boasted a transparent side, effectively serving as an interactive, see-through billboard. This unique concept allowed swimmers to enjoy the view beyond the tank, while onlookers could also catch a glimpse of the aquatic action within.
So What?
Moving images are king, both in online and offline formats. If you can transform your ad into a video or ensure it maintains constant motion, you have a better chance of capturing people’s attention. This billboard is one of several concepts that successfully achieve this.
Every week, I bring you a summary of the need-to-know news in the world of digital marketing. No fluff, just the good stuff.
If you find it helpful, be sure to share it with a friend!
TikTok / e-commerce Logistics Made Easy: “Fullfilled By TikTok” Enhances TikTok Shop for UK Merchants Meet Fullfilled by TikTok (FBT), a new logistics solution in the UK for TikTok Shop. It handles storing, selecting, packing, and shipping products to the TikTok community. No more logistics hassle! FBT offers simplicity, speed, and affordability, freeing you up to focus on marketing, content, and product enhancement.
So What? For ecommerce business owners, these features collectively streamline their operations, leading to reduced delivery times and potentially higher customer retention rates. With TikTok’s logistics solution taking care of the backend processes, business owners can focus more on product innovation, marketing strategies, and overall business growth.
THE SOURCE OF SEO:
Trying to get the site optimally listed on Google or other engines should be the priority exercise at every juncture.
Learn everything you can and stay on top of your site for success. Easy read including the essentials in ten chapters
Who is the author? Anas Diab is a digital marketing veteran with more than a decade of experience working with top global brands at top media agencies and Ex-Twitter AKA X inc.
Instagram’s new feature protects users from unwanted images and videos in DMs. This is improtant for those using DMs as a sales tool. [TECHCRUNCH]
You can now add music to your carousel posts, and add up to three friends as collaborators [TWEET]
Group mentions are on the horizon! Soon, you’ll have the convenience of grouping multiple accounts under a single handle, simplifying the process of mentioning or tagging them. [LINK]
Threads:
Threads Has Lost More Than 80% of Its Daily Active Users
Threads has lost more than 80% of its daily active users. Does it really matter since it still gets you higher engagement? Check resources below for the competitive analysis with X on engagement. [GIZMODO]
New feature udpates for Threads as announced by its CEO [THREAD]
Share threads in Instagram DMs
See all the threads you’ve liked
Sort the accounts you follow
Add custom alt-text
X / Twitter Updates:
X to start showing community posts in the For You [TWEET]
Users Can Now Participate in Spaces Streams via Desktop PCs [SOCIAL MEDIA TODAY]
Livestreaming might come back soon. Elon is testing it out with his team and seems to be pushing for his fight with Zuckerberg to be streamed on X. [SOCIAL MEDIA TODAY]
X Is Adding a New Option to Sort User Posts Based on Engagement [TWEET]
TikTok Updates:
TikTok Shop launches new logistics offer ‘Fulfilled by TikTok’ in the UK. This is huge if you are in the ecommerce space [TIKTOK]
Sharing this again as link was broken last week. TikTok launches Ads Library allowing you tot see what your competitors are advertising on the platform.[BOOKMARK THIS]
In this 2 min short video, Apple adeptly demonstrates more than just the Accessibility features of the iPhone; it skillfully weaves a compelling narrative showcasing the device as a tool for its main heroes.
The ad features an all-disabled cast, authentically portraying their experiences over an ordinary day. Representing disabled individuals, this cast underscores the genuine encounters they face. Apple’s impactful two-minute short film, “The Greatest,” is a powerful watch that’s hard to tear your eyes away from.
It has been a while since my last newsletter as I have been moving houses and getting things in order. This makes it a substantial one this week, with lots of great resources I strongly recommend checking out and saving.
Be sure to share this email with anyone you think would find it useful. Remember, sharing is caring!
Updates
Threads / X 🧵 Unlocking the Power of Community Engagement on Text-Based Channels Yep, Twitter’s gone all X on us, and now Tweets are now called Xeets. But this shift isn’t just about a fresh label – it’s shaking up how brands should connect with their community. Threads have shown to be the ultimate playground for brands to experiment with their brands and go after engagement over chasing big reach numbers.
In the ever-evolving landscape of digital marketing, the question of where to allocate your efforts often arises. The rise of various text-based social channels, such as X/Twitter and threads, has brought a new dimension to the playing field. Amidst these shifts, the prudent course of action is to consider redirecting your focus from content production to community engagement. Let’s delve into why this shift is gaining traction and how it can propel your marketing strategy forward.
Why should you Prioritize Community Engagement on Text-Based Channels?
Growth and Evolution: Text-based platforms like X/Twitter and threads are experiencing an evolution. These channels are undergoing transformative changes, paving the way for new possibilities in reaching and engaging with your target audience.
In-Depth Storytelling: Text-based platforms offer a unique opportunity for brands to tell deeper and more engaging stories. Threads, for instance, enable you to craft narratives that unfold progressively, creating a captivating storytelling experience that resonates with your audience.
Personalized Interaction: The focus on text-based engagement allows for more personalized interactions. Responding to comments, messages, and thread discussions in a conversational manner can establish a stronger bond with your community, fostering loyalty and trust.
Community Building: These platforms facilitate the formation of vibrant and interactive communities around your brand. By actively participating in discussions and threads, you can cultivate a sense of belonging and unity among your audience.
Time for a Shift: From Content Production to Community Engagement
In the midst of this digital transformation, a recalibration of marketing priorities is warranted. Instead of solely focusing on churning out content, divert your attention to fostering meaningful interactions and relationships within your community. Here’s why this shift is pivotal:
Exposure through Engagement: The heightened engagement that text-based platforms offer can lead to increased visibility. Thoughtful and engaging interactions attract attention, expand your reach, and establish your brand’s presence in a cluttered online environment. Both platforms are now prioritizing comments and replies over fresh content will little engagement.
Conversion Catalyst: Community engagement serves as a catalyst for conversions. When your audience feels valued and heard, they are more likely to trust your brand and consider your offerings. This trust can ultimately lead to higher conversion rates.
The current digital landscape calls for a strategic realignment of marketing priorities. Text-based channels offer an avenue for community engagement that goes beyond conventional content production.
With declining numbers on both platforms—Thread and X/Twitter—it’s imperative to cultivate stronger connections. Regardless of your business type, a shift towards Human-to-Human (H2H) marketing is essential. Achieving this is well within reach through direct conversations with your audience on text-based social media channels.
This is not the first time we’ve witnessed this. Both Facebook and YouTube have introduced similar ad formats in the past. Facebook refers to these as Sequential Ads. This advancement enables brands to delve deeper into compelling storytelling to captivate user attention. On a platform like Netflix, these ads would seamlessly integrate, evolving into genuinely engaging content.
Instagram Updates:
Meta will be launching an AI bot to talk to users just like Snap. [LINK]
Instagram updates Reel tempaltes to make it easier for brands to create more engaging content [LINK]
Threads:
Fake followers already being sold on Threads for $100 for 2500 followers [LINK]
Straight from Mosseri, Threads will have limits to limit spam [THREAD]
TikTok Updates:
TikTok launches Ads Library allowing you tot see what your competitors are advertising on the platform. This is the most important link this week. [BOOKMARK THIS]
TikTok joins the game of text based social media platforms. Time to start posting those Xeets/Threads on TikTok as well [LINK]
YouTube Updates:
YouTube Music podcasts support starts rolling out internationally [LINK]
YouTube is testing AI-generated video summaries that appear on search and watch pages. The text is meant to provide a “quick overview” of a clip to help you decide if it’s worth watching. [LINK]
LinkedIn:
LinkedIn Reports ‘Record Engagement’ with a 25% increase in public conversations in the app year on year. If you havent been focusing on LinkedIn now is the right time to do so. [LINK]
Strange But True:
In a peculiar turn of events, the poster child of remote work, Zoom, is now requesting their employees to return to the office. [LINK]
Resources:
Instagram Organic Content Strategy: What Works in 2023 Guide
Meta’s First Responsible Business Practices Report Link
Magna Global research on effect of repeat ads Download
Accenture report on how to to thrive in a cookieless world Read here
Ultimate guide for Meta Ads Targeting by Jon Loomer Save this
A Social Media Manager’s Guide to ChatGPT (+ 15 Prompts) Bookmark this
WWF shared a graphic on Twitter depicting the transformation of the Twitter logo from 2006 to 2023. The graphic contrasts the different bird symbols evolving into an X, symbolizing the decline in global biodiversity.
Accompanying the graphic is a German caption that emphasizes, “Safeguard our animal species before it becomes irreversible! Approximately 1 million genuine animal species face the risk of extinction.”
So What?
The timeless strategy of trend-jacking continues to hold its significance in the ever-evolving landscape of marketing and communication. In a world where trends are constantly emerging and evolving, the art of trend-jacking offers a dynamic and effective way to capture attention, engage audiences, and align your brand or message with what’s currently capturing the collective interest.
Fun Corner:
Not sure how to pronounce X or Xeet? This creator has a fun twist that we might have missed TikTok Video
Most of the noise this week came from Threads, but there are still a few other updates worth keeping an eye on. If you’ve set up your account, drop me a hello on Threads.
Be sure to share this email with anyone you think would find it useful. Remember, sharing is caring!
Updates
Threads 🧵 What You Need To Know About Threads? While it launched just a few days ago, Threads, an Instagram app, has already has 97 million users and is expected to cross the 100 million mark by the time you read this. Even the founders couldn’t have anticipated such astounding success.
There is a lot to wrap our heads around when getting started, but Threads is not too far off from Twitter. So, your basic content strategy on Twitter should apply here as well. If you’ve been neglecting Twitter lately and need to catch up, here are a few things to keep in mind.
Posts? Threads?
Forget about the vocabulary we’ll use for a moment. Your thread/post has a 500-character limit. Currently, hashtags are not supported, so please avoid using them in your content. It remains uncertain whether hashtags will be introduced in the future.
Should I be on Threads already?
Yes, leverage the first-mover advantage. Currently, Instagram/Meta/Threads aims to provide users with a remarkable experience, including the dopamine rush from notifications and engagement.
As a result, content on the platform will naturally receive a boost. Seize this opportunity to expand your presence and align it with your Instagram strategy.
What should I post?
Aim for conversational content that sparks discussions and gets people talking. Your goal is to engage with the audience and encourage them to interact with you or talk about you. Don’t hesitate to utilize old-school tactics like giveaways, as seen in Mr. Beast’s successful campaign that nearly broke Threads. However, ensure the entry requirements are easy, promoting greater participation.
Publish – Stay active by posting at least 2-3 times per day on the platform.
Engage – Take the time to engage with people by responding to comments, both on your own posts and on their content. This is an excellent opportunity to start building relationships with your audience.
How can I grow on Threads?
Your discoverability on Threads relies on several factors:
Migrating your Instagram followers. This is done automatically once you login with your Instagram account and allow the feature.
Active participation in conversations on Threads. That means you show up to new people if someone they know interacted with your posts.
Currently, there is no search functionality for topics or keywords. Therefore, your content’s visibility primarily depends on engagement from your network, which can help it appear and potentially receive a boost on the timeline.
Advertising:
While it is still too early to discuss advertising on the platform, some creators have already been seen mentioning their sponsors on there.
Spam is being efficiently handled on Threads so far, thanks to the same backend that exists on Instagram and moderates comments there, which is presumably used here as well. Spam comments are automatically hidden, and page admins have the option to delete or make them public.
Take this an an opportunity to experiment and have fun. Do not over think it and focus on having engaging conversations with your audience.
Taking social media listening to the next level, Heinz hits the mark by turning user comments about its ketchup into an ad. Inspired by real social media comments, the ad captures comical yet relatable moments when people express their genuine love for Heinz ketchup.
So What?
Discovering your best campaign may be as simple as listening to what your true fans are already talking about. The real insights often lie in the simplest observations. Take a moment to delve into product or business reviews and gain a genuine understanding of why people love your brand. Who knows what comment might carry the secret to your future success.
Lots to talk about this week. Twitter seems to be the heaviest with new features and drama as usual. If this is your first issue, please reply to this email with your thoughts.
Be sure to share this email with anyone you think would find it useful. Remember, sharing is caring!
Updates
LinkedIn Elevate Your LinkedIn Posts With the Power of AI LinkedIn is currently testing out a cool new feature that lets you tap into the power of generative AI right within the share box. Here’s the deal: you start by sharing your own thoughts and perspectives in about 30 words or more. Then, with the help of AI, you can create a first draft of your post. It’s all about making your life easier when it comes to turning your brilliant ideas into awesome posts. You’ll have a solid foundation to review, edit, and customize before hitting that publish button.
Fingers crossed the content is way better than that parody Viral Post Generator! Try it out for a good laugh
So What?
As the digital landscape evolves, an increasing number of platforms are embracing generative AI as a valuable tool for content creation. Brands should also consider incorporating generative AI into their strategy to scale content while maintaining quality and efficiency.
We will all be Verified soon. Meta verified rolling out to the rest of the world in the next month or two. [LINK]
You will soon be able to use organic videos directly as ad creatives (via Marketing API). What does it mean? You won’t have to upload the video again to the Facebook library. [LINK]
Twitter Updates:
Elon wants to put a limit on your scrolling. As a paying customer, you’ll only be able to see 10,000 tweets per day, while free users will be limited to 1,000. [TWEET]
Twitter is closing up. Moving forward, you’ll only be able to view tweets and profiles if you are logged in. (Elon says this is a temporary measure) [LINK]
You will soon be able to “Download Video” on Twitter for later offline viewing. [TWEET]
LinkedIn Updates:
Expect a change in your reach as the LinkedIn algorithm now prioritizes posts from friends and those that offer “knowledge and advice. [LINK]
TikTok Updates:
TikTok Creative Challenge enables creators to submit video ads to brand challenges and receive rewards based on their video’s performance. [LINK]
A great tool for creators and brands alike, Test and Compare enables thumbnail A/B testing on YouTube without the need for third-party apps. [VIDEO]
YouTube Revolutionizes Video Dubbing Artificial Intelligence Powered Tool [LINK]
Snapchat Updates:
More than 4 million users are paying to use Snap+ [LINK]
WhatsApp Updates:
Expect to include WhatsApp in your media plan, as the platform will soon allow businesses to send you personalized messages. [ARTICLE]
A new feature might be coming to the app, allowing you to pin messages for up to 30 days. [LINK]
Google Updates:
Google Ads receives a design uplift. Head over to check it out and get acquainted with the fresh new look. [LINK]
Resources:
YouTube Culture and Trends Report 2023 [PDF] Download here
The Sustainable Fashion Communication Playbook from the UN [102 page PDF] Download here
Brand Watch
Dove Empowers the Community to Say No to TikTok’s Bold Glamour Filter with #TurnYourBack
For years now, Dove has been championing natural beauty in their campaigns. So, it’s no surprise that they were concerned when an AI beauty filter called Bold Glamour took the world by storm on TikTok. This filter has become one of the most popular ones on the platform, transforming people into an unrealistically beautiful version of themselves. In response, Dove took it upon themselves to launch a campaign urging people to #TurnYourBack on Bold Glamour and refrain from using the filter.
So What?
Such a powerful campaign could only be the result of strong convictions. Dove’s move is more than just a marketing play; it aims to shift cultural behavior. Brands should evaluate their own convictions and identify strong positions they are willing to take. Numerous studies have shown that users tend to align with brands that stand up for something.
Here is the Dove case study that helped them win at Cannes Lions 2023 [CASE STUDY VIDEO]
