October’s Top Social Media Memes & Trends

Blog cover with visuals of referenced trends

Coming off of “spooky season” in October, the internet came up with some scary good memes and trends to catapult users toward content creation around the globe. 

So what type of content topped the trending charts in October? Let’s take a look and see what we can glean from them in order to capitalize on the next round of meme-able magic!

#1: Subtle Foreshadowing 👀

The first hit was the “subtle foreshadowing” trend that made its rounds on the comedic side of the internet (TikTok especially). While the audio was not essential to the content, it certainly added to the ✨drama✨ of the moment. Essentially, this trend was created to give creators a fun way to make fun of themselves or others falling, spilling, dropping things, etc. Others took some creative license and recreated some relatable life moments like trying to calmly wake your mom up or what happens when sleepy people study at night.

Here are a couple of examples that left us chuckling:

@ajerrrrrrrr

Replying to @Makaylamcgeeher i am TORE UP yall😭😭 sitting down for the next 2 weeks #subtleforeshadowing #fyp #fypシ #fall

♬ QKThr - Aphex Twin
@freyaamarax

I just can’t study in the evenings okay😩 #study #studytok #relatable #students ib - @she_revise 🫶🏾🫶🏾

♬ QKThr - Aphex Twin

Why it works: By teasing viewers with the end result flashing in and out of the lead-up, users effectively kept their viewers watching and waiting for the satisfyingly hilarious ending shot of the silly moment, creating a clever visual hook. While most probably didn’t consider the deep inner workings of why their loved one falling down the stairs performed well, we professional content creators could certainly learn a thing or two from this method of audience captivation.

#2: Something Stupid Like “I Love You” 🙈

Check out these examples:

@crawfordarnow

i'm also guilty of the 🖐️✊🖐️✊🖐️✊ wave

♬ sonido original - emilia's wife

Why it works: One thing we love to talk about around here is a good catchy audio/relatable text combo. Take a catchy lyric or quote and find a way to relate it to the general public, and we’d say you’ve got a winner.

#3: In Da Clurb, We All Fam 🪩

There’s probably a million little ways to relate this feeling back to your niche or your experiences, but here’s a few examples that did well:

@sabrinacarpenter

any fan of mine is a fan of mine ♥️

♬ original sound - Maggie Winters

Why it works: Well, we already kind of explained this. (Sorry, we couldn’t help it.) But to recap, Broad City’s club moment and the trend that followed reached social media virality by having that hilarious relatability mixed with an already somewhat recognizable and catchy audio.

#4: Direct from Domingo 🕺🏻

We quickly find out that, on the trip, the girls met a guy named Domingo who started out seemingly harmless but quickly turned out to be a huge problem that would cause a little drama for the bride and her new husband. (You can fill in the blanks.)

Why it works: Let’s be honest: a certain side of the internet simply loves to obsess over a new celebrity every once in a while. BUT, it also loves a good reference back to a recent cultural phenomenon like “Espresso”, which they did by setting their sad tale of misfortune to Carpenter’s catchy tune.

Truthfully, the relatability aspect of this meme didn’t quite take off as much as we might have expected it to, but there were certainly enough uses going around to make it a memorable moment from the month of October. Had more top creators caught wind of it, we’d have had a monstrous wave of Domingo flooding our feeds.

To Sum It All Up…

As we wrap up our exploration of October’s trending memes and content, it's clear that creativity knows no bounds in the digital landscape. From humorous twists on relatable mishaps to catchy audio that strikes a chord, these trends have not only entertained but also shown us effective ways to connect with audiences. Embracing these insights can help creators harness the next wave of viral moments. So, let’s keep our eyes peeled for fresh opportunities and continue to innovate as we dive into the content of the coming months!


October 2024 Social Media News and Updates

With the start of a new month, it’s time to dive into the latest social media updates from October; here’s what you need to know.

1. YouTube Shorts Expand to Three Minutes 

YouTube continues to fine-tune its Shorts experience, but there’s been a bit of confusion along the way. Earlier this month, YouTube announced that videos up to three minutes long would now qualify as Shorts. Naturally, creators had questions — would this impact their older short videos?

To clarify, YouTube reassured creators that any videos uploaded before October 15, 2024, won’t be converted into Shorts. Only new vertical videos of three minutes or less, uploaded after this date, will be categorized as Shorts. It’s a simple update, but one that could take some time to adjust to — YouTube says the transition could take a few weeks as their system updates.

In addition, YouTube is making custom membership badges easier to upload, expanding Sponsored Content tagging to mobile, and rolling out Shorts drafts across Android and iOS. While none of these updates are groundbreaking, they’ll certainly streamline the content management process for creators across desktop and mobile.

2. Instagram-to-Threads Crossposting Might Get Easier

Meta is inching closer to tighter integration between Instagram and Threads. Currently, it’s testing a feature that will let you easily share content directly from Instagram to Threads. The idea is simple: posts and Reels from your IG account will show up in your Threads composer for quick reposting.

Image Source: Alessandro Paluzzi

It sounds convenient, but there’s a potential downside — double-posting content might annoy followers who track you on both platforms. That said, Meta must have data suggesting that cross-posting is already common, which could explain why they’re exploring this feature.

While this update could encourage more users to share content across both apps, we’ll have to wait and see whether it enhances user experience or simply leads to content overload. Meta has informed TechCrunch that the feature is currently in internal testing, though there’s no confirmed timeline for a public rollout yet.

3. Threads to Introduce “Loops” for Topic-Based Communities

Threads is working on a new feature that could help users find more relevant discussions: “Loops.” This upcoming addition is designed to function as a community space, where users can organize specific Threads under one topic-focused Loop. Think of it as a way to sort your content and discover conversations that matter to you.

Image Source: Alessandro Paluzzi

The name “Loops” is clever — a “loop” in a “thread”, creating a space for topic-specific engagement. It’s also similar to X’s Communities feature, which organizes content by theme. While Loops could make it easier for users to engage in targeted conversations, it’s still unclear how well this feature will integrate into Threads' public posting setup. Nevertheless, it’s another step in Meta’s efforts to improve user engagement on the platform.

4. Instagram Adds ‘Best Practices’ Tips for Creators

Instagram is offering creators a little extra guidance with the launch of its “Best Practices” section within the Professional Dashboard. Here, Instagram is doling out tips on how to maximize your reach — like posting 10 Reels a month to keep your content fresh and front-of-mind for followers.

Sure, the tips are research-backed, but it’s hard not to be skeptical when a platform encourages creators to keep posting frequently (which, of course, benefits Instagram, too). While quantity matters, we all know that creating content that truly resonates with your audience is what counts. And one powerful Reel could do more for your profile than posting endlessly.

Still, the new Best Practices section could offer some useful insights, especially when it comes to aligning your posting strategy with data-backed trends. Just don’t expect any earth-shattering revelations.

5. Instagram Recommends Carousels for Reach

Looking to boost your reach on Instagram? According to IG chief Adam Mosseri, posting carousels could be your best bet. Carousels, which now allow up to 20 frames with added music, provide multiple opportunities for engagement. And more engagement equals more reach.

Mosseri explains that carousels often outperform single-photo posts for two reasons: first, more media means more interactions, which boosts visibility. Second, if a user doesn’t swipe through your carousel, Instagram may automatically show them the next image on their feed, giving the post a second chance to capture attention.

As an added bonus, carousels with music are eligible to appear in the Reels tab, offering even greater reach. While carousels shouldn’t be forced, Mosseri suggests that if you have the content, they’re worth considering as part of your strategy. With Instagram also allowing text overlays and multi-format display options in carousels, there’s more flexibility than ever to make your posts stand out.

Need expert guidance on the latest social media updates? You’re in the right place. Get in touch with us today!

September 2024: Top Trends and Memes

collage of two phones with tiktok screenshots on them, moo deng the thai hippo, and kamala harris' facial expression during the Sep 2024 debate

With the changing of the seasons, many internet users found themselves “falling” (get it?) for a slew of fun, new social media trends. September gave us instant hit music, loveable mammals, and plenty of political humor to boot. Let’s take a look at what trends got folks online talking during the month of September and what we can learn from them to start properly calling out “viral-worthy” content as we see it.

#1: “Ohhhh, I wasn’t sad. I just needed ____.” 🏖

This trend first reached its impressive social heights in the early summer. But it has stuck around into the first “-ber” month for a great customizable TikTok/Instagram template. To participate in the trend, users identified something that brings them happiness or gets them out of a funk and filled in the blank after “I just needed a…”, soundtracked by Madonna’s 1983 hit “Holiday”. Many took the opportunity to share their beautiful photos or videos of said thing. Others simply cut to a humorous clip of themselves participating in whatever activity they choose.

View this post on Instagram

A post shared by Umbra (@umbra_design)

@hiddenhotspots.ie

Oh i wasn't sad i just needed a holiday to Parisssss 🇫🇷✈️❤️🥐 #paris #paris2024 #citybreak #holiday #trend #summer

♬ i just needed a holiday - amber | uk + travel
View this post on Instagram

A post shared by JIANHAO TAN (@thejianhaotan)

  1. The open-ended nature of this meme leaves space for creators to show off something they love. It could be a literal vacation/holiday like the one about which Madonna sings. Or it could be anything from drinking coffee to chatting with friends to getting their nails done, and so on.

The lesson here? Never miss an opportunity to customize a trend to fit your brand/personality. If the popular audio leaves an invisible blank for you, fill it in!

#2: “They’re eating the dogs” et al 🫣

Following the September 10th presidential debate between Vice President Kamala Harris and former President Donald Trump, we were blessed with a smorgasbord of meme-able moments. It’s hard to believe that this is what politics looks like in 2024, yet here we are. While these may not be prime examples of marketable content for your brand, we think you might want to take note of the value that exists in utilizing hot topics like a presidential debate to reach new audiences.

Whether we’re talking about wild accusations, casual roastings, or hard-to-hide reactions, the debate did not disappoint in the way of virality. Here are just a few things that came out of the debate: 

Here's "a concept of a plan" for the next big political event that breaks the internet:

If you are a social media manager, you should keep a close eye on social media for "meme-able" content the day after a big event like this. You’re almost guaranteed an instant hit and if you can get creative without being too controversial, you’re golden.

#3: Moo Deng 🦛

Here are a few examples of how online users took her cuteness and ran to create some next-level, shareable “aww” moments:

View this post on Instagram

A post shared by Alamo Drafthouse Springfield (@alamospringmo)

View this post on Instagram

A post shared by @goss.media

View this post on Instagram

A post shared by Sports Girls Club (@sportsgirlsclub)

Here's how to have fun with future Moo Dengs that arrive on the social scene:

As you can see, the possibilities are endless when it comes to the content that can be created from Moo Deng’s sweet little existence. She can literally be edited into almost any setting, such as your workplace or favorite landmark. Her facial expressions are simply unmatched and quite relatable – perfect for comparing to the struggles of everyday life. The best part is, if done right, even the silliest trends can show marked improvement in your reach and engagement. You should never rule out a trend before considering all the ways you could make it work for you!

#4: “This and yap.” 🗣

Now, the internet has found a new way to present your ideal day, showcasing the places, things and overall vibes necessary for a proper yap.

Some inspo for your next yap session, if you please:

@annabarger

Zillowing our future brownstones and yap

♬ apple x supercut - jevan

Here’s why this trend has really made its home on the cutesy side of TikTok and Instagram:

Another Month Come and Gone

That’s a wrap on our favorite trends and memes from September. We hope you learned a lot from this variety of social hits and feel inspired to conquer your next month of content (even if you have to take it day by day with these trend cycles). Trending content always presents a refreshing new way to keep our audiences engaged and wanting more – even if it’s just for the laughs at first. As you search for inspo in the coming months, keep an eye out for opportunities to capitalize on trending audios, easily customizable templates, and big cultural moments alike.


September 2024 Social Media News and Updates

Let's dive into the September 2024 social media news and updates you need to know.

1. TikTok Brings Text-Based “Thoughts” to Inboxes

TikTok has rolled out a new feature that looks suspiciously like Instagram’s Notes. "Thoughts" lets users post short, text-based updates that show up in a speech bubble at the top of their inbox. 

Given how well Instagram Notes has performed with younger users, it’s not surprising that TikTok is jumping on the bandwagon. Now, TikTok’s version is still in testing, but considering how popular these short updates are on Instagram, it’s likely to catch on. It’s almost humorous to watch this ongoing race between the two apps, as they both continue to borrow features from each other.

Next, Threads is letting users upload 20 photos or videos in a single post, mirroring Instagram’s recent carousel update. This isn’t a huge surprise, as Threads has been closely mimicking Instagram features to encourage cross-posting.

Post by @threads
View on Threads

Threads’ steady climb in app downloads — ranked 6th on iOS in August — suggests it’s gaining momentum. While X still dominates in terms of active users, Threads is making strides. Updates like these may help keep it relevant in the highly competitive microblogging space.

3. YouTube Expands Auto-Dubbing to More Creators

YouTube’s auto-dubbing tool, formally known as “Aloud,”  is set to reach more creators and more languages, expanding beyond its initial rollout of English-to-Spanish and Portuguese. Soon, creators will be able to dub their content into languages like French and Italian.

This AI-powered tool is part of YouTube’s broader strategy to help creators expand their reach. It’s a clear indication of the platform’s growing investment in AI to enhance the creator experience.

4. TikTok Tests “Delete and Re-Edit” for Clips

TikTok is testing a new “Delete and Re-Edit” option, which allows users to remove all edits made to an uploaded video and start fresh. While it won’t work on videos edited with third-party apps, like CapCut, it’s a handy tool for creators who make all their edits within TikTok.

5. YouTube Unveils New AI and Community Features

At its “Made On YouTube” event, the video publishing platform introduced a range of AI-powered tools to help creators streamline their content creation process. The most notable of these is Google’s Veo tool, which allows creators to generate background elements for Shorts clips, adding a new layer of creative potential.

YouTube also introduced the “Hype” program, which allows fans the option to give  “hype points” to emerging creators, boosting their visibility on the platform. These updates further demonstrate YouTube’s commitment to helping smaller creators gain traction.

6. New App Lets You Interact With AI Bot Profiles

Ever feel like you’re shouting into the void on social media? Enter SocialAI, a new app that’s populated entirely by AI bots ready to respond to your updates. These bots come with various personality traits offering contextually relevant replies to whatever you post.

While interacting with AI bots might sound a bit dystopian, there’s something compelling about it. SocialAI could be a glimpse into the future, where engagement comes from AI profiles that simulate human interaction. Whether this will catch on remains to be seen, but with AI playing an increasingly significant role in digital spaces, it’s an intriguing experiment.

Need expert guidance on the latest social media news and trends? You’re in the right place. Get in touch with us today!

How TikTok Search Works and Why Brands Need to Incorporate SEM in Their Posts

Is TikTok becoming the new generations’ Google? 

With its unique algorithm and massive user base, TikTok has become an essential platform for brands looking to engage with younger audiences. However, many brands still underestimate the power of TikTok’s search function and its potential for Search Engine Marketing (SEM).

In this post, we will explore how TikTok’s search engine works, why incorporating SEM strategies into TikTok content is crucial for brands, and an example of a brand successfully leveraging these strategies.

The Power of TikTok's Search Function

While TikTok is often associated with the For You Page (FYP)—the endless feed of recommended videos curated by TikTok’s algorithm—the platform’s search function is quickly becoming a powerful discovery tool for users and marketers alike.

How TikTok Search Works

TikTok’s search function operates similarly to traditional search engines like Google, where users can type in keywords or phrases to find specific content. When users enter a query, TikTok’s algorithm pulls up relevant videos, creators, sounds, and hashtags related to the search. The algorithm considers factors like:

The Importance of Keywords

Similar to Google SEO, keywords are vital on TikTok. When users search for something like “summer skincare routine” or “best hiking spots,” the videos that use these keywords in their captions, descriptions, and even audio will rank higher in search results.

For brands, this represents a massive opportunity. By strategically using relevant keywords in TikTok posts, brands can significantly increase the discoverability of their content—not just through the FYP, but also through organic search within the platform.

Why Brands Need to Incorporate SEM Into TikTok Posts

Traditionally, SEM (Search Engine Marketing) refers to paid efforts to appear higher on search engine results pages, but TikTok allows brands to utilize both organic and paid SEM strategies. Here’s why every brand on TikTok should focus on integrating SEM:

1. TikTok is Becoming a Search Engine

TikTok isn’t just for entertainment anymore—it’s increasingly being used as a search engine, particularly by Gen Z. Recent studies have shown that Gen Z often turns to TikTok or Instagram to search for products, tips, or reviews rather than Google. For example, searching for “best skincare products for acne” or “easy home workout routine” on TikTok yields a range of useful, bite-sized video content.

As more users start treating TikTok as a search engine, brands need to optimize their content for search queries. Incorporating SEM strategies like keyword research, targeted hashtags, and strategic use of trending sounds helps ensure that your content surfaces when potential customers are looking for your product or service.

2. Boosting Discoverability

By optimizing your TikTok content for search, you can greatly increase your brand’s discoverability. While the FYP can be unpredictable and reliant on TikTok’s ever-evolving algorithm, search allows you to target users with intent. These are users actively searching for solutions, product recommendations, or how-to content, making them more valuable leads.

For example, a fitness brand that creates videos with the right keywords—like “beginner home workouts” or “quick 10-minute abs”—can appear in searches related to those terms. This enables brands to capture highly relevant traffic and potentially convert them into customers.

3. Improving Long-Term Visibility

Searchable content has a longer lifespan on TikTok. While videos on the FYP can go viral and then quickly fade away, content that’s optimized for search continues to show up in results long after it’s posted. Brands that consistently incorporate SEM practices into their TikTok posts benefit from sustained visibility and engagement over time, turning viral spikes into a more reliable stream of views and interactions.

4. Competing in Niche Markets

TikTok’s search function enables brands to dominate niche markets through targeted content. By focusing on long-tail keywords (usually three to five words long) and less competitive search terms, smaller brands or those in specialized industries can carve out a space for themselves. For instance, a local skincare brand can rank for niche keywords like “organic acne solutions” or “best cruelty-free skincare routine” and compete with bigger names that may not be targeting these specific terms.

How to Incorporate SEM into Your TikTok Strategy

Now that we’ve established why TikTok SEM is crucial, let’s look at some practical steps to integrate it into your TikTok marketing strategy:

1. Keyword Research

2. Optimize Captions

3. Use Hashtags Strategically

4. Leverage Trending Sounds

5. Incorporate Paid SEM

One brand that excels at incorporating SEM into its TikTok strategy is Fenty Beauty. Fenty regularly optimizes its posts by using targeted hashtags and trending sounds, but it also takes advantage of TikTok’s search function by including highly relevant keywords in captions and descriptions.

@fentybeauty

The easiest #boyfriendblush combo has entered the chat…🎀💘💕 This cayoote new #makeuptrend got us big blushin’ fr! 🤭 Tap into this new blush placement using the most effortlessly cheeky combo 👉🏽 #CheeksOutCreamBlush in ‘RiRi’ + #FentyCheeks Suede Powder Blush in ‘Bakin’ Cakez’ Have y’all tried this blush trend yet? Cop the NEW Fenty Cheeks + Cheeks Out at the #fentybeauty site, @Ulta Beauty, and @sephora 🍑✨

♬ Love Me - Coco & Clair Clair

For example, when Fenty Beauty launched their skin tint product, they made TikTok videos showcasing the product’s features and incorporated keywords like “light coverage foundation,” “natural glow,” and “everyday makeup look” in the captions. By doing this, they ensured their content was searchable for users looking for these specific attributes in makeup products.

In addition to organic content, Fenty Beauty also runs paid SEM campaigns, targeting beauty-related keywords and promoting their hashtag challenges, increasing their overall visibility on the platform.

TikTok is evolving into a powerful search engine, and brands that want to stay ahead must adapt by incorporating SEM strategies into their TikTok marketing efforts. By optimizing content for relevant keywords, hashtags, and sounds, brands can improve their discoverability, capture more targeted traffic, and ensure long-term visibility on the platform.

By following the lead of successful brands like Fenty Beauty, companies can effectively leverage TikTok’s search function and transform it into a valuable tool for growth and engagement. If you’re ready to jump headfirst into TikTok, contact our team at Random today! 

Random Round Up: Social Media News and Updates, August 2024

It can feel like a full-time job to keep up with the ever-changing world that is social media, but don’t worry — we’ve got you covered with the latest and greatest social media updates from the past month. 

Whether it’s Instagram revamping its profile layouts, LinkedIn amplifying its video features, or a number of other updates, there’s plenty to explore. 

Let’s get into August's roundup of social media news to ensure you’re always one step ahead.

1. Instagram Tests New Vertical Grid Profile Layouts

    Attention all Instagram perfectionists: your carefully curated squares might soon become…rectangles? Yes, Instagram is testing a new vertical grid display for profiles, swapping out the classic square thumbnail for longer, sleeker stills. This new layout seems to be designed to better align with video content, the app’s most engaging content format.

    Instagram Chief Adam Mosseri confirmed the changes in a recent Q&A, saying that this shift is aimed at modernizing profiles to better reflect today’s content format, mostly in vertical formats. 

    Post by @lindseygamble_
    View on Threads

    2. LinkedIn Rolls Out In-Feed Video Carousels 

      LinkedIn is stepping up its video game with the introduction of in-feed video carousels. These side-scrolling displays allow users to browse through tailored video clips without leaving the comfort of their feed. Tapping a video takes you to the platform’s full-screen video feed, similar to TikTok’s.

      This new feature seems part of LinkedIn’s broader push to integrate more video content in an effort to engage younger audiences and capitalize on the rising popularity of short-form video. Just last month, LinkedIn highlighted that video uploads have surged by 34% year-over-year, contributing to the 1.5 million pieces of content being uploaded every minute. Whether this will reshape how professionals interact with the platform remains to be seen, as this type of video content seems conducive to what users are usually seeking on the app.

      3. Instagram Adds Music Feature Updates to User Profiles

        Instagram is bringing back a touch of nostalgia with its latest feature that lets you add a song to your profile. For OG social media users who remember the days of MySpace and its autoplay tracks, Instagram’s take is a bit more subdued. Now, users can add a track to their profile that visitors can choose to listen to.

        This feature has been in testing for a while. It seems to be part of the app’s broader strategy to incorporate more music features, possibly positioning itself as a key player in music promotion, especially if TikTok’s future in the U.S. becomes uncertain. 

        4. Threads Launches Custom Feeds and Media Tab

          Threads is continuing to evolve with some updates that might seem familiar. The latest updates include a new “Media” tab on profiles, making it easier to view all of a user’s image and video posts in one place.

          In addition, Threads has introduced custom feeds, allowing you to create lists based on specific keywords or profiles. 

          Image Source: Ahmed Ghanem on Threads

          These updates are part of Threads’ broader effort to refine the user experience and offer more personalized content streams. While Mosseri isn’t convinced these features will significantly boost engagement, they do align the app more closely with its competitors. 

          5. X Leverages an Updated Grok 2 for Premium Membership Growth 

            X is rolling out Grok 2, the latest version of its AI chatbot. This is likely another effort to drive more Premium sign-ups amid declining ad revenue and increasing costs. The update comes with new features like image generation and other functional improvements. As seen below, the AI chatbot is being prominently highlighted in the app to attract users to upgrade.

            With user numbers shrinking and ad revenue down by 70%, X is looking to its AI initiatives. Grok 2 seems to be a key element in X’s strategy to shift its revenue model toward subscriptions. While the platform faces significant financial challenges, the launch of Grok 2 represents a critical move to stabilize its business.

            Need expert guidance on the latest social media trends? You’re in the right place. Get in touch with us today!

            How to Make Your LinkedIn Job Posting Stand Out

            Businessman pointing to LinkedIn Logo with Text that says "How to Make Your Job Posting Stand Out on LinkedIn: Best Practices and Strategies for Going Above and Beyond"

            We all know how tough the job market is these days for both prospective candidates and organizations themselves. So, how can you attract top talent? Utilizing social media to fill your positions can make a world of difference. Stick around for valuable insights into what top hiring professionals are doing to bring in winners, and you’ll be creating powerfully fruitful LinkedIn job listings in no time.

            Clarity & Transparency

            The first thing that all job listers should know is that job posts need to be clear and should communicate all relevant and factual details. This may seem like common sense, but you’d be surprised how often busy bosses neglect to take the time needed to craft the ideal messaging for interested parties.

            A well-crafted job post should be clear, concise, and engaging. Provide potential candidates with all the necessary information while showcasing your company's unique culture and values. Utilizing strong keywords and an inviting tone can help your posting stand out. 

            Here are four things LinkedIn says every job posting should include to ensure clarity and transparency:

            requirements and qualifications for a job listing from LinkedIn

            Kindness & Inclusivity

            LinkedIn does not permit any kind of discrimination based on protected characteristics, including age, gender, gender identity, religion, ethnicity, race, national origin, disability, sexual orientation, and any other basis protected under law. While you may be inclined to think you are incapable of holding exclusive preferences or letting them come across in your writing, it is important to pay close attention to the language used in your listing to ensure that your wording cannot be misunderstood as favoring one race, gender, age, etc. over another.

            It is important to note, however, that “​​in a jurisdiction where it is legally permissible to do so, LinkedIn may permit language in posts expressing preference for members of certain groups historically disadvantaged in hiring in that location.” This maintains the idea of inclusivity by not shutting out anyone in particular, but encouraging unrepresented individuals not to limit themselves based on past experiences.

            The Secret Sauce (According to LinkedIn)

            So now that you’ve ensured you are abiding by LinkedIn’s standards, how do you make the content stand out effectively? Some pro tips from everyone’s favorite professional social media platform include:

            Organic Connection

            Beyond LinkedIn’s job posting feature, leveraging organic posts can amplify your reach and engagement. Sharing job openings through company updates, employee networks, and relevant LinkedIn groups while incorporating rich media such as images and videos can significantly enhance visibility and interest. Combining these strategies ensures a broader and more effective approach to talent acquisition on LinkedIn.

            Some qualities of an effective organic job post include:

            prime examples of eye-catching "Now Hiring" posts from various companies
            H&R Block "now hiring" post that catches your eye and utilizes stock photography to represent the typical employee
            "Now Hiring" post from employee at Boston Medical Center resharing a job listing instead of using a design

            Additionally, engaging with your LinkedIn community through regular content updates and interactions can further boost your recruitment efforts. By posting thought leadership articles, industry insights, and company achievements, you can keep your network informed and attract passive candidates who are interested in your company's vision and culture. Encouraging employees to share job openings and company news on their personal profiles can exponentially increase your posts' reach.

            This holistic approach of combining job postings, organic content, and employee advocacy can create a compelling presence on LinkedIn that draws in high-quality candidates.

            Make Your Move

            Getting your job postings to stand out on LinkedIn requires a combination of clarity, transparency, and strategic use of organic content. By meticulously detailing job responsibilities and qualifications, ensuring inclusivity, and leveraging the platform's features to highlight your company's unique culture and values, you can attract the right candidates for your next big hiring decision. By following these best practices and strategies, you'll not only enhance your talent acquisition efforts but also establish a strong, appealing presence on LinkedIn, making your company a desirable place to work for top talent.



            Random Round Up: Social Media News and Updates, July 2024

            Navigating the fast-paced world of social media can be overwhelming, with new features and updates emerging almost daily. No need to worry though, because we’ve compiled the latest and greatest social media updates from July to ensure you’re always in the know. From TikTok’s AI chatbot to YouTube’s new social engagement features, let’s dive into the latest social media news from the past month.

            1. TikTok’s AI Chatbot: Genie

              In the latest move in the AI race, Tiktok is preparing to launch its own AI chatbot, “Genie” to Western users. As per Semafor, the software will “simulate conversations, facilitate interaction and communications between humans and AI, and produce human-like speech and text.” 

              TikTok’s actually been working on this for a while, with its “Tako” chatbot tool available to users in the Philippines since last year. Unlike Tako though, which helps users find other videos, Genie aims to be a more comprehensive tool, integrating various AI functionalities into one stream. 

              Image Source: TikTok screenshot from Watchful.ai

              Expect Genie to include features like the generative AI search function from Douyin, the app’s Chinese counterpart, which enhances discovery inside and outside the app. There’s also talk of integrating “StreamVoice,” which can mimic a person’s voice from a few samples, along with AI music generation and text-to-video creation tools. 

              While Meta has already rolled out its AI chatbot across all its apps, TikTok’s Genie seems poised to focus more on helping users navigate and utilize its expanding suite of AI tools. 

              2. YouTube Testing Community Spaces to Drive Engagement 

                Youtube is testing Community Spaces, a feature that lets fans interact via text posts in a dedicated area — an extension of the platform’s Community Posts. The move aims to build a stronger community within the app and is reflective of YouTube’s changing approach to integrate more social media-like elements. 

                Image Source: Lindsey Gamble

                Though currently available on select creator profiles, YouTube is testing the feature with plans for a broader rollout soon. 

                3. X Exploring a Free Trial for Premium Users

                  X is testing a free trial for its X Premium subscription. Initially spotted by X Updates Radar, this trial could let users test X Premium features, including the Grok AI chatbot, before committing to a subscription.

                  There are concerns about this undermining the subscription’s original goal of combating bots, as spammers could exploit the free trial. However, with less than 1% of users subscribing, it’s a strategic move — X Premium seems more focused on revenue and promoting its AI bot. Overall, a free trial might gauge interest, but it’s unclear if it will significantly boost sign-ups.

                  4. Official Updates to Instagram Notes

                    Instagram is making Notes more dynamic by allowing users to leave notes directly on Reels or feed posts. Previously, Notes appeared at the top of the inbox or above the profile photo. Now, users can share notes on posts from friends or brands, reacting in real-time and seeing others’ reactions while scrolling.

                    Image Source: Instagram

                    These Notes will be visible for up to three days and can be deleted at any time. With competition from TikTok and Snapchat, this update reflects Instagram’s active efforts to increase engagement within the app.

                    5. New Creative Features for YouTube Shorts

                      YouTube is rolling out new features for Shorts to help customize and increase your Shorts usage. This includes auto layout to convert longer videos into Shorts clips by tracking the main subject. Available for Android, this feature optimizes content for the Shorts format.

                      Image Source: YouTube Official Blog

                      YouTube is also taking cues from TikTok by adding a text-to-speech option for automated narration on clips and auto-generated captions that can be customized with different fonts and colors. Additionally, creators can remix already remixed Shorts clips and use the platform’s new “Add Yours”  sticker to prompt creative responses. 

                      As Shorts continue to gain traction on YouTube, now driving over 70 billion daily views, these updates aim to embed the format further — another one of Youtube’s efforts for more community building and connections in the app.

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