Is TikTok Shop the new QVC?

Spend just a few minutes on TikTok, and you will inevitably be served with something to buy on your FYP. Between live shopping feeds and the infamous orange shopping cart button for TikTok Shop, it’s nearly impossible to avoid. 

Love ‘em or hate ‘em, these videos are making creators (and TikTok!) a ton of profits. In fact, Capital One Shopping estimates that Americans spend $7 million per day shopping on TikTok.

Today on the blog, we’re exploring whether TikTok has become the new QVC and what that means for online shopping. 

First, a little history on QVC.

QVC, short for "Quality, Value, Convenience," was launched in 1986 as a television network dedicated to home shopping. It revolutionized retail by bringing products directly into viewers' living rooms, showcasing them through engaging live broadcasts. QVC built a loyal following by featuring a wide range of products, from electronics to fashion, often endorsed by charismatic hosts who provided detailed product demonstrations and real-time interactions with viewers.

TikTok: The New Kid on the Block

Since its launch in 2016, TikTok has quickly become a global phenomenon. In September 2023, TikTok Shop debuted in the United States, allowing TikTok users to purchase directly through the app.  

Most current TikTok Shop sales come from regular videos on your FYP with that ever-present orange shopping button. However, there is a growing interest in live shopping streams that look a whole lot like QVC. 

@tiktokshopcreators.us

Ready for Livestream? Here’s what you need to do to add products and GO LIVE 🎬#tiktokshop #liveshopping #tiktokshopcreators

♬ Vibes - ZHRMusic

Interestingly, users of the Chinese version of the app (Douyin) spent $223 billion during live commerce events in 2022 (source). It’s only a matter of time before live shopping in the United States catches up. 

Now, let’s put these two platforms head-to-head:

Technology and Format

QVC

TikTok

@haleyep14

Day in the life: many of you know I spend a lot of my free time outside of work right here on Tik Tok, representing brands I LOVE as a Tik Tok Live Shopping Host!!! I love gettint to be myself while making friends and selling products. It has been such a fun journey and if it is something you could see yourself doing, I’d love to discuss some opportunities😉!!! #tiktokshop #fyp #dayinmylife @Iffert Media

♬ original sound - Haley P

Content and Interaction

QVC

TikTok

@sellwithtiktokshop_us

3 Key Tips for LIVE Shopping Event 📣 #sellwithtiktokshop #tiktokshopus

♬ original sound - sellwithtiktokshop_us

Marketing and Sales Strategies

QVC

TikTok

So, which platform is better for your brand?

While QVC and TikTok live shopping share the core concept of live, interactive shopping experiences, they cater to different audiences and leverage distinct technologies. 

QVC is a trusted brand with a long history of reliable service. Its broadcasts are polished and have a high production value that you won’t find on all TikTok lives. The downside? QVC primarily appeals to an older demographic and is limited to viewers who watch television or visit the QVC website. They also have a high barrier to entry for a new product or brand to be featured on the show. 

Conversely, TikTok has a broad reach among younger viewers who favor digital platforms. TikTok live shopping has a high level of interactivity with real-time feedback from shoppers, and it seamlessly integrates social media and e-commerce. TikTok offers a low barrier to entry for smaller creators or brands who want to sell a product but don’t have a significant enough presence for QVC. Viewers also don’t expect the same level of polish from TikTok live shopping, so it’s easy to grab a phone and start selling. 

What does this mean for TikTok and the future of retail?

Both QVC and TikTok have their strengths and challenges, but together, they highlight the evolving landscape of retail, blending the best of traditional and modern shopping experiences.


According to an EMARKETER survey, over one-fifth (20.2%) of US marketplace buyers purchased from TikTok Shop seven months after its launch. As technology and consumer behaviors continue to evolve, TikTok live shopping is poised to play a significant role in the future of online retail. 

Data shows that CPG and beauty brands have perhaps the biggest opportunity to leverage the influx of shoppers on the platform. 81% of TikTok Shop sales in the U.S. are health and beauty products (source), which makes the platform ripe with opportunity. 

If you’re curious about how to get started on TikTok Shop or even livestream shopping for your brand, give our team a shout! We’d be happy to help you set your brand up for success. 

Contact Us

10 Tips/Content Ideas for Food & Drink Brands to Succeed on Social Media

With countless foodies on social media, it’s easier than ever for food and drink brands to get discovered and build an audience. Want to get in on the action? Well you’re in luck, as we’re here to serve up some essential tips and strategies to help your brand and messaging stand out. Whether you’re a charming local cafe or a bustling restaurant, these social media tips will boost your brand’s visibility, build your audience, and, most importantly, make mouths water.

1. Take Your Followers Behind the Scenes

Ever wonder how your favorite dish was made? Your audience does too! Share behind-the-scenes glimpses of your kitchen, your team, and the creation process of your menu items. Followers find behind-the-scenes content interesting, and it adds a personal touch to your brand that makes the food even more yummy. It’s a win all around.

2. Leverage the Power of User-Generated Content

Your customers are your best ambassadors. Encourage them to share their experiences with your products using a branded hashtag. Repost their photos and videos to your feed to build a strong community and show some love. Remember to ask permission and tag them in the content if they say yes; that way they’ll share it on their account and get more eyes on yours.

3. Jump on the Short-Form Video Bandwagon

TikTok and Instagram Reels are where it’s at. Short-form videos are dominating social media and currently deliver the highest ROI among marketing trends. Instead of just snapping a picture, try capturing videos. From recipes to fun challenges with customers, they’re especially eye-catching and fun to watch.

4. Go Live with Cooking Demos

Live videos are a way to connect with your audience in real time. How? Host cooking demonstrations where you whip up recipes using your products. It’s interactive, engaging, and gives your brand a dynamic, personable touch. Instagram, Facebook, TikTok, and YouTube all have live features; do some research and meet your audience where they’re at to give them a cooking demo they’ll salivate over.

5. Team Up with Influencers and Food Bloggers

Influencers and food bloggers can significantly elevate your brand. Partnering with local bloggers is a great way to engage both your current audience and attract new ones. Invite influencers to try your products and showcase them to their followers. Collaborate with influencers who share your values and let them express their genuine love for your products. It’s all about reaching new people and building trust. 

6. Create Drool-Worthy Visuals

In the food and drink world, looks matter. Take the time to capture high-quality visuals that make your products irresistible. Use natural light and capture every delicious detail to make your audience’s mouth water.

7. Stay Engaged with Your Followers

Social media is a two-way street. Respond to comments, messages, and reviews quickly and earnestly. Show your audience that you’re listening and care about their feedback. Ask questions, create polls, and keep the conversation going. 

8. Showcase Customer Testimonials and Reviews

Nothing beats a good recommendation. Positive word-of-mouth can be the nudge potential customers need to give your products a try. Share glowing testimonials and reviews from your happy customers to build credibility.

9. Run Exclusive Promotions and Giveaways

Who doesn’t love a good deal? Offer exclusive promotions, discounts, or giveaways to your social media followers. It’s a great way to drive engagement and keep your audience excited about your brand.

10. Ride the Wave of Seasonal and Trending Content

Social media is always changing. Stay ahead of the curve and keep your content timely by tapping into seasonal themes and trends. From holiday specials to viral food trends, aligning your content with what’s current can boost your visibility and engagement. 

—

Looking for more delicious social media tips and insights? Random is here to help! Work with our social media experts to make your food brand the next local hot spot. Get in touch with us today.

June’s Biggest Memes and Trends (And What We Can Learn from Them) 

June introduced a fresh wave of digital creativity and one cultural phenomenon (also spelled “Femininomenon”) after another, featuring addictive tunes and easily-recreated memes that continue to enthrall online communities. From viral CapCut templates to relatable Reel trends, online collective ingenuity has once again proven its exceptional ability to capture and mold today's world.

But what is it about these trends that makes them stand out? Let’s take a look at some of the most prominent trends and memes of June 2024 to find out.

#1: “Is Somebody Gonna Match My Freak?”

Starting off strong, we’ve got a trend that creators quickly latched onto to advertise themselves and the type of the content that they share. Utilizing a remixed version of “Nasty” by Tinashe (specifically the line that goes, “Is somebody gonna match my freak?”), online users have been able to creatively list off their interests to a widespread audience in an attempt to entice viewers to follow their social accounts (or maybe just find a new friend/partner to match their energy).

Here’s why this not-so-nasty trend works:

While the formula for these posts isn’t exactly new, it’s certainly one that has shown itself to be successful time and time again: Memorable audio + Customizable text overlay = Trendy AF. Give creators a chance to flex their unique style, qualities, and interests and watch them flock to the opportunity en masse.

The Point: Be on the lookout for the magic formula as you gather inspo for your next post. Say it again: “Memorable audio + Customizable text overlay = Trendy AF”. Maybe make a song out of it?

#2: “Please, Please, Please” by Sabrina Carpenter

Once again, Sabrina Carpenter has taken over the internet. It’s like… kind of her year. This month, specifically, she added a fifth song to her impressive Billboard Top 100 presence called “Please, Please, Please.” Much like her last hit “Espresso,” this song will be perpetually playing in our heads until further notice.

Here’s why this Billboard Top 100 hit doesn’t disappoint:

Also similar to her infamous “Espresso,” the reasons to use this audio (or some version of it) are two-fold. #1: Pop culture has its eye on Sabrina Carpenter at the moment, so using any of her hits in the background of your video presents a higher chance of engagement. #2: The song also creates an opportunity to relate the song’s most popular lyric back to everyday life situations. Check it out below:

@sheldontheretriever

Arm out of joint, stress levels to 10, why me😂 #sheldontheretriever #goldenretriever #pleasepleaseplease

♬ sabrina please please please - iman .ᐟ⋆.✶
@bbyegan_

I cannot believe @Mermeg made me look this GOOD😭🙌🏻 Spending the day at Butterfly Loft Salon today with @DangerJonesCreative was absolutely incredible ❤️‍🔥 #transformation #hair #california

♬ sabrina please please please - iman .ᐟ⋆.✶

The Point: Be on the lookout for trendy music that begins to show up repeatedly in your feeds. But try not to wait until it’s the only audio being used for a week straight. Capiche?

#3: “Take a Look Around”

We all love a good CapCut template. It’s an easy way to hop on a trend without the often grueling process of shooting video content. 

This month, a line from the underrated 2003 film Uptown Girls made a reappearance on the comedic side of the internet that enjoys satirizing life’s little annoyances. With the help of an overlay of a young Dakota Fanning’s monologue about her absent mother’s lack of dependability, internet users have related the quote, “Take a look around. Do you see her anywhere? News. Fuh-lash. You’re not gonna!” back to their own lives in a hilarious way. 

Here’s an example of how one creator utilized this template to portray a very common relationship ailment:

@__sarahmariie

Do you see her anywhere?😅 • #takealookaround #doyouseeheranywhere #hangry #uptowngirls #trend #capcut #relationships #comedy #relatable #fyp #foryou #foryoupage #canada

♬ original sound - 🐞❤️ Carla ❤️🐞

Some creators even took it a step further and filmed their own lip syncing video to really drive their point home. Here are a couple of those:

Here’s why this trend is a fundamental success:

After all, “fundamentals are the building blocks of fun.” (That’s a quote from the movie. Seriously, you should watch it.) This trend, as we mentioned earlier, holds the relatability and accessibility that many users prefer to use to create quick viral material. It also takes advantage of the internet’s love for early 2000’s pop culture, specifically nostalgic movies set in a big city. (It’s just the rules.) 

The Point: Be on the lookout for ways your content can speak to a collective audience interests like nostalgia and niches.

#4: Your Favorite Artist’s Favorite Artist

Pop sensation Chappell Roan arrived on the scene back in 2020, captivating more niche audiences across the country. It wasn’t until this year that the rest of the world woke up and smelled the hype of this Missouri native’s immense talent and dazzling persona. With her rise to fame over the last few months (and just in time for Pride Month 🌈), her songs could quickly be found all over the digital sphere, positioning Chappell as a cultural “Femininomenon” in the month of June. (There it is again in case you didn’t catch it in the intro. Go listen to it. We’ll wait.)

Here’s why you need to use Chappell Roan audio to spice up your content:

As we know, LGBTQIA+ Pride isn’t just reserved for June. Whether you’re a member of the community or you’re cheering from the sidelines as an ally, you better hop on the Chappell Roan express because she is on course to taking over the pop scene. The hype isn’t dying down anytime soon and these brilliantly campy tunes are just what your content needs to spread the love and reach new heights!

The Point: Be on the lookout for ways to intentionally share your love for popular tunes and prominent figures in a timely manner.

So that’s the tea on June 2024. These trends not only provide a playful reflection of our shared experiences and humor, they also present refreshing new ways to keep our audiences locked in and loyal to our content. As you search for inspo in the coming months, keep an eye out for opportunities to capitalize on nostalgia bites, easily customizable templates, and instant hits from beloved artists. 

That’s it for now. Stay trendy! ✨

At That RANDOM Agency, we utilize two of our core values – curiosity and collaboration – to bring you consistent content helping you learn about the great digital landscape and how to operate like a boss within it. Check out our other blog posts on our Random Thoughts page or schedule a discovery call today!

#digitalmarketing #socialmedia #trends

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

With the ever-changing world that is social media, staying up-to-date can feel like a full-time job. With social platforms like TikTok, Meta, and YouTube constantly introducing new features, it’s easy to fall behind. But don’t worry, we’re here to keep you in the loop. Here’s a rundown of the biggest social media news from June.

1. Instagram Testing Unskippable Video Ads

Instagram is experimenting with a new ad format designed to capture users’ full attention. This involves unskippable video ads on the main feed that users must watch in their entirety before they can continue scrolling.

The new feature was spotted by Instagram app user, Dan Levy, who posted a screenshot of the "ad break" to his X account.

While these ads guarantee full attention, they may not be popular among users. Similar to YouTube’s unskippable ads, they could understandably lead to frustration and an increased use of ad blockers. But, Instagram likely sees this as an opportunity to integrate more ads, especially with the rise in AI-recommended content. Brands will, of course, love it. 

2. Meta Introduces AI-Powered Tools to Boost Customer Engagement in DMs

Meta is enhancing its Messenger platform with new AI-driven tools aimed at making brand/customer interactions smoother and more personal. This includes an AI Q&A feature to tackle the most common questions businesses receive on Messenger. This tool delivers custom, automated responses that feel like you’re chatting with a human, thanks to Meta’s Llama 3. 

Image source: Meta for Business

Meta is also rolling out a new messaging promotion option. Brands can now send paid promotional messages to users who’ve opted in, right through Ads Manager. This development offers more chances for ongoing engagement directly in the inbox. By tapping into the rising trend of private messaging, Meta is opening up fresh avenues for brands to connect with their audience in a more engaging and efficient way.

3. YouTube is Experimenting with Community Notes

YouTube just announced they’re testing a feature that lets users add their own notes to videos to provide “relevant, timely, and easy-to-understand context.” 

Image source: YouTube Official Blog

Sound familiar? It’s a lot like X’s Community Notes, giving viewers the power to attach their insights directly to YouTube clips.

Helpful notes, as rated by users, will appear publicly under videos. An algorithm will decide which notes make the cut based on their ratings. This move essentially brings the Community Notes concept to YouTube, letting viewers add context and verify video claims. 

4. Instagram Introduces Close Friends-Only Live Streams

Instagram’s doubling down on intimate group chats with the introduction of Close Friends on Instagram Live, a new feature that allows users to live stream with up to three other people, visible only to those on their Close Friends list. 

Image source: Instagram

Live video has become a must-have connection tool, especially for younger users. Think DM video chats, TikTok Live, or even the controversial Omegle platform. Instagram’s tapping into this, and this move aligns with the platform’s trend towards private sharing, as seen with the growing Notes feature.  

5. LinkedIn’s New AI Tools to Help Job Seekers

LinkedIn is upping its game with new AI-driven tools to help job seekers, likely thanks to its parent company Microsoft’s major AI investments. Premium subscribers can now access features like conversational job search, AI-based application feedback, and cover letter assistance. These tools aim to streamline your job hunt, offering helpful feedback and guidance. However, there’s a concern that some users might over-rely on these tools, potentially misrepresenting their skills and qualifications.

Image source: LinkedIn

LinkedIn is also introducing AI-powered career coaching for instant expert advice and adding up to 60 new LinkedIn Learning courses each week, including over 800 AI courses.

While these tools mean new opportunities, they also pose challenges for recruiters to discern genuine skills from automated ones. Nonetheless, LinkedIn is betting on AI to enhance your professional journey.

—

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

Lights, Camera, Action! How to Create Engaging Social Video Content for Keynote Speakers

You probably already know this, but videos are overtaking all other forms of content on social media platforms. Why? Video is dynamic, engaging, and delivers outstanding results. In fact, short-form video currently drives the highest ROI compared to other marketing trends.

There are lots of industries that should be capitalizing on this trend. But one in particular. the keynote speaking industry, has a unique opportunity to combine the popularity of video on social platforms with the core of what they do: speak in front of audiences. 

If you’re a keynote speaker, leveraging this powerful medium on social media can be a game-changer, boosting personal branding, engaging a wider audience, and significantly increasing visibility. Videos offer a glimpse into your personality that still images often can’t, making it the ultimate tool to connect with an audience.

So, how can keynote speakers create compelling social video content that resonates with their audience? Look no further — here’s your guide.

Define Your Strategy

The first step, before you create a single video, is to work on defining your strategy. Start by identifying your goals — whether it’s establishing thought leadership or motivating your viewers. Know your audience and tailor your content to their interests. Look at the metrics provided by the social media channels you produce content for, and allow that to inform audience personas that you can then tailor your video to. Choose the right social platforms based on where your target audience spends their time. Is your audience full of business professionals? Then you better be creating video content for LinkedIn. Is your messaging catered towards Gen Z? Make sure you’re on TikTok and Instagram.  Most importantly, don’t forget to go beyond just posting. Engage with your audience in the comments, on live sessions, or even create response videos.

If the thought of creating a strategy is overwhelming, don’t worry. Here at That Random Agency, we specialize in helping clients - including keynote speakers - identify the right strategy to help grow their business. Give us a shout if a custom social strategy is something you’re in need of.

Put Your Personality on Display

Guess what? Your audience comes to your social pages to learn more about YOU. Tailor your videos to showcase who you are, whether that involves documenting your personal experiences, sharing tips, or participating in trends. Don’t be afraid to stray from your usual posts, experiment with new types of videos, and personalize trends that relate to your message.

This Instagram Reel from Erica Dhawan is an amazing example of how to break away from one’s usual style, while still creating content that effectively represents her message. She took a popular trend and made it uniquely her own, even though it didn’t directly connect to her role as a motivational speaker. Instead, the post displayed a glimpse into Dhawan’s journey from a young person into the successful entrepreneur she is today. In less than 15 seconds, the audience was able to learn a little about Dhawan’s personality, see her family, and most importantly, her dedication to hard work. Who wouldn’t want to book her for their next event?

Define Your Message and Expertise

They say a picture speaks a thousand words; well, a video is worth a million. Utilize video as an opportunity to say what pictures can’t. This is your chance to share words of wisdom and establish what’s important to you. Think of it this way: video is the perfect channel to articulate your thoughts to an audience who might not have the chance to listen to you in person. Just as you would on stage, use video to share your knowledge and expertise. 

This is a great example from Mel Robbins. It’s personal and extremely representative of what she stands for. She uses video as a means to explore her thoughts on happiness in a way that a picture can’t capture entirely. 

Utilize Storytelling

As a keynote speaker, you’re an expert at storytelling on stage. Keep that same energy when you’re filming for social. What personal or industry-relevant stories can you tell to keep the audience’s attention and establish relatability? Share personal anecdotes or industry insights to make your content stand out. Just like any story, craft your videos with a clear and engaging narrative — whether through vivid language or images, be sure your storytelling keeps the audience’s attention and fosters connection.

Invest in a Sizzle Reel

One of the cornerstones of marketing yourself as a keynote speaker is to create a sizzle reel. Sizzle reels are typically short videos that highlight your skills as a keynote speaker in your natural habitat: on stage. You might be asking, “Ok, but what does a sizzle reel have to do with social media?” Well…everything! If you - or perhaps a marketing agency (hint, hint) - create a sizzle reel, it can be edited down to shorter, bite-sized videos to post on social media. Now you’ve got the biggest bang for your buck - a longer video that shows off your talents AND the ability to edit it to shorter videos that you can post on social media until the end of time.

Let’s Get Technical: Best Practices for Engaging Video Content

Now that we’ve established the foundational elements of what makes for engaging video content for keynote speakers, there are some key best practices to keep in mind during filming and editing that will make your videos shine.

Research Video Editing Tools

Video editing can seem overwhelming, especially if you’ve never done it before. We understand that not every speaker has the means to hire a marketing agency or videographer to edit videos; luckily there are lots of solutions available to make things easier on you. Video editing apps like iMovie, CapCut, and Canva are relatively easy to use and allow you the ability to create dynamic video content without having to go to film school. If you don’t want to download additional apps or deal with exporting and importing video, social media apps TikTok, Instagram, and YouTube all have editing options built right into the interface of the platform. If you don’t want to get your hands super dirty, there are also AI tools like Opus.AI that can edit videos together for you in seconds. 

Add Captions and Graphics

For videos with heavy dialogue, it’s important to add captions (and sometimes, images). This not only makes your content more attractive and accessible, but also allows for further personalization. Not to mention, many people watch videos while multitasking - at work, in meetings (the nerve!), watching their favorite television shows, etc. Do them a solid and throw some captions on your videos so they don’t have to turn up the volume. Viewer with any form of hearing loss will especially appreciate this. If you’re unsure of how to add captions, social platforms like TIkTok and Instagram have the ability to transcribe what you’re saying in the app. For those looking to get a little more creative, CapCut or Canva are great tools to add captions to videos.

For example, Molly Fletcher’s video above effectively uses captions with highlighted words and text visuals to emphasize key points. This adds to the overall visual interest of the video and makes it more engaging.

Optimize Video Length

The trick to views and engagement is simple: keep your videos short and sweet. Research shows that 66% of viewers will watch a video in its entirety if it’s less than 60 seconds long. The key to getting that coveted view is to grab the viewers’ attention within the first few seconds.

Add Music and Sound Effects

Music and sound effects are key to making your video content pop. Background music sets the tone and often keeps viewers interested. Choose tracks that match your message — lively tunes work for upbeat content and calm music are appropriate for more serious conversations. Likewise, sound effects add a fun touch to transitions or key points, but don’t let them overpower your main audio. 

Random tip: The algorithms that drive social media platforms like TikTok and Instagram love it when you use trending audio; make sure you browse the trending audio libraries in these apps to give your video the best chance of reaching a large audience.

Embrace the Power of a Strong Call to Action

Last, but certainly not least, don’t forget to include a powerful call to action (CTA) in your videos. Whether you want viewers to visit your website, sign up for your mailing list, or take advantage of a promo code, a clear and compelling CTA is a must. Remember, a good CTA turns passive viewers into active participants. 

Whether you’re working to build your personal brand, secure new leads, or just build relationships online, video content is key to your digital marketing as a keynote speaker. It might take a few practice rounds, but we have no doubt you’ll be out there creating engaging videos in no time. 

If you’re looking for help creating video content that you can post to your social media, That Random Agency is throwing an event that you NEED to attend. It’s called SPEAKR - a transformative 3-day experience to turn up the volume on your speaking career. We will do live sizzle reel and social-forward video creation, as well as provide educational and networking opportunities with the smartest folks in the keynote speaking industry. Learn more about the event here. 

May’s Biggest Memes and Trends (And What We Can Learn from Them)

May created a whirlwind of digital creativity and cultural topics, marked by major earworms and easily-recreated memes that have captivated online users. From viral TikTok challenges to thought-provoking X threads, the Internet's collective consciousness has once again demonstrated its unparalleled ability to reflect, shape, and satirize contemporary life. But why are these trendy visuals and sounds so impactful? Let’s dive into the most prominent trends and memes of May 2024 and pinpoint what it is that has us “working laaaaate” to stay trendy.

#1: Espresso by Sabrina Carpenter

In case you didn’t catch it, the end of the last paragraph was a not-so-subtle nod to everybody’s guilty pleasure song, “Espresso” by Sabrina Carpenter. After it dropped in early April, Carpenter’s catchy single quickly grabbed online users and morphed into a top trend over the past couple of months. Particularly notable lyrics that caught fire and proved effective came from the beginning of the second verse:

“I’m working late,

‘Cause I’m a singer

Oh, he looks so cute

Wrapped ‘round my finger.”

While it may not read as anything groundbreaking, anybody living online in 2024 will be able to tell you for years to come about the widespread effect of this catchy tune. Here are some examples of online users who included Sabrina’s song in their content:

@octopusslover8

NEW COWBOY BOOTS

♬ Espresso - Sabrina Carpenter
View this post on Instagram

A post shared by Brooklyn and Bailey (@brooklynandbailey)

Here’s why it’ll “Mountain Dew it” for your content:
  1. The obvious reason: It’s catchy AF. It’s stuck in everybody’s head and, as any content creator knows, a good trending audio increases your chances of reach and engagement. Plus, it’s easy to dance to, which tends to attract the TikTok dancers and folks with good vibes.
  2. It contains relatable lyrics (or rather easily replaceable words) that can apply to a general audience. “I’m working late… ‘cause I’m a ______” holds endless possibilities for a variety of job titles, niches, and groups.

#2: Met Gala

For a certain (rather broad) sector of Internetdom, the first Monday in May is a big deal. Every year, some of the largest names in the entertainment industry walk the steps of the Metropolitan Museum of Art in New York City to flaunt their elaborate designer looks in benefit of the museum’s Costume Institute.

“What does this have to do with a little ol’ content creator like me”, you ask? Everything! While the time may have passed to benefit from any red carpet memes this time around, the chuckle-inducing posts below serve as a valuable reminder to capitalize on major pop culture events like the Met Gala:

View this post on Instagram

A post shared by Corporate Bish (@corporatebish)

View this post on Instagram

A post shared by Betches Media (@betches)

View this post on Instagram

A post shared by Betches Media (@betches)

Here’s why red carpets are green to go:
  1. People like celebrities (even if they don’t like them). The Internet tends to flock to every major red carpet event for hot gossip, industry news, and show-stopping looks regarding the celebrities that intrigue them.
  2. People also like any chance to humanize untouchable celebs with relatable “average Joe” humor. There’s something that scratches an itch in our brains when we can find a way to relate a billionaire’s photo to our mundane, everyday problems. (It’s sad but it’s true.)

#3: King Charles Portrait Reveal

Everybody loves a good CapCut template. This month, a top meme that surfaced was King Charles’ anticlimactic curtain-drop reveal of a large portrait of himself. The Internet, of course, immediately took action and created a CapCut template allowing users to place whatever their heart desires inside the large, ornate frame as an amusing way to showcase something that matters to them.

This was capitalized upon by many users wishing to show off a finished project, their own selfie, or a cute pic of their pet. Here’s an example of how someone used CapCut to add a cute singing cat edit into this otherwise normal video:

@life_is_goodie

#Meme #MemeCut #CapCut i got meow #cat #catsoftiktok cat singing talking #charles #kingcharles #trending #trend

♬ original sound - Crazy cats💕
Here’s why it was a royal success:
  1. The Internet loves to poke fun at world leaders and make their unordinary circumstances fit their ordinary lives.
  2. People love any chance to take a meme they wish they’d come up with and personalize it with their version of what fits the template best.

#4: Chauffeur? Chauffeur.

A silly AI-generated tune called “The Chat Shenanigans” surfaced in April and really caught on in May, creating a goofy, relatable meme to compare two different ways of doing things or two different definitions of something. Check out some examples below:

@i.c.e._

Stae into the void till scilence becomes loud #itsiceithink #alt #insomnia

♬ Originalton - Chat Music
@shit.show.shelby

Blocked🤣

♬ Originalton - Chat Music
@cadenmcdonald54

Please tell me im not the only one that uses grocery bags like this😭

♬ Originalton - Chat Music
@avi.akbar

I HATE when people do this 😭 #test #exams #school

♬ Originalton - Chat Music
Here’s why this fancy-pants meme works so well:
  1. We all have different definitions and ways of doing things. It probably wouldn’t take any content creator more than a few minutes to think of a time they ran into a situation like the ones above. This trending audio sets up a rather broad scope for relatable meme creation, providing a greater opportunity for reach and engagement.
  2. Once again, a catchy tune will win the day. We’ve personally got a rotation of “Espresso” and “The Chat Shenanigans” running around in our brain… Oh, and that “I’m Looking For a Man in Finance” sound. But that’s for another time.

And there you have it — May 2024 in all its meme-filled, trendsetting glory. From Sabrina Carpenter's catchy "Espresso" to the ever-glamorous Met Gala memes, King Charles’ portrait reveal antics, and the whimsical Chauffeur tune, this month has shown us just how creative and diverse Internet culture can be.

These trends not only entertain but also offer a light-hearted mirror reflecting our collective experiences and humor. In your month-to-month research for eye- and ear-catching content, remember to look for big events, easily copied/customized templates, and instant classics by the world’s favorite artists. That’s all for now. Stay trendy!

Looking for more insights on the world of digital marketing? That’s like…our bread and butter. We utilize two of our core values – curiosity and collaboration – to bring you consistent content helping you learn about the great digital landscape and how to operate like a boss within it. 

Schedule a discovery call today!

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

With another month comes another wave of changes to social media. Here at That Random Agency, we’re dedicated to keeping you in the loop with the latest updates. So, let’s dive into what’s new and exciting on our apps. 

1. X is Saying Goodbye to the “Likes” Tab

    X plans to hide post likes across the platform. That’s right — the “Likes” tab on profiles will soon vanish, meaning you won’t be able to see what users have given approval to. X engineer Haofei Wang explained, “Public likes are incentivizing the wrong behavior. For example, many people feel discouraged from liking content that may be ‘edgy’ in fear of retaliation from trolls, or to protect their public image.” 

    Here’s our question: Why would anyone “like” something they wouldn’t want associated with their profile? This change seems like it could open the door to promoting darker, more controversial content under the guise of privacy, potentially leading to a more radicalized feed. While Elon Musk’s own history of liking controversial posts might explain this move, it raises questions about the future direction of X. 

    2. UMG is Back on TikTok

      The three-month long standoff between Universal Music Group (UMG) and TikTok over royalty payments and AI policies has finally come to an end. The label’s music is back on the platform, thanks to a new deal that promises better remuneration for UMG’s artists, new promotional opportunities, and protections against AI. 

      Lucian Grainge, UMG’s chairman and CEO, celebrated the agreement as a new chapter that emphasizes the value of music and welfare of the creative community. And honestly…he couldn’t be more right. With new music from beloved artists like Ariana Grande or Taylor Swift dropping in the last couple months, we’re relieved. 

      3. Instagram Updates That Help Small Creators Break Out

        Instagram announced several major changes to its algorithm to give creators a fairer chance at reaching new audiences. These include:

        Definitely a win for creators, and kudos to Instagram for championing originality. These changes will not only support smaller creators but also ensure we get fresher and more diverse content in our feeds. 

        4. Instagram Might Be Expanding Notes to Feed Posts and Reels

          Instagram is at it again, testing a new feature that lets users add Notes to feed posts and Reels (if you’re unfamiliar, Notes can be found in your direct messages, underneath the search bar). Indeed, IG seems to be pushing for Notes everywhere…having just recently added the option on profiles.

          Image source: @permolity on Threads 

          While some users are annoyed by the development of features they don’t use, it’s clear that Instagram is targeting younger audiences who seem to enjoy Notes. With competition from TikTok and Snapchat, Instagram is definitely looking for ways to keep engagement high and spark conversations within the app.

          5. Threads is Catching Up to X with a New Chronological Feed feature

            Threads is introducing a new feature that allows users to add a chronological filter within search results, a move that brings it closer to being a true X replacement. As Threads Chief Adam Mosseri announced, the new “Recent” tab will allow users to view the most up-to-date posts, making it easier to follow real-time events like sports. 

            This update is quite crucial for Threads which, despite its growth to 150 million monthly active users, has seen its momentum slow down. With real-time discovery elements, Threads aims to boost engagement and user growth.

            —

            As always, stay tuned for more social media news and insights as they come. If you want to collaborate with experts who stay ahead of the curve, get in touch with us at Random!

            Unpacking the 2024 Nielsen Marketing Report: Strategies to Supercharge Your Campaigns

            Nielsen’s Annual Marketing Report is here, with insights into how marketers should be allocating budgets and measuring success in 2024. And…well…it’s pretty long! If you’re pressed for time, fret not - we read the whole thing and recapped the key takeaways and findings in this blog post. Aren’t we nice? Read on for the insights you need to know as you prepare for the rest of the year and beyond.

            Takeaway #1: Despite a Down Economy, Spending Optimism is Up

            Despite inflation, slowed consumer spending, and supply chain uncertainties, 72% of global marketers anticipate bigger ad budgets this year — up from 64% last year. Global marketers plan to allocate 63% of their budgets to digital channels, focusing especially on social media, search, online video, and digital display, driven by the higher perceived effectiveness of these channels. Among all the digital channels, social media stands out as a frontrunner with an average ROI that is 36% higher than all media over the past three years. 

            Random’s Take: While it’s tempting to pour all your resources into digital, don’t neglect other media channels! What’s effective for one brand may not work so well for another. A balanced mix may help you reach a wider audience and maximize your ROI. Industry specifics aside, billboards, radio and print ads, and other non-digital marketing channels are still effective with the right strategy.

            Takeaway #2: Misalignment Between Marketing Tactics and KPIs

            As the economy dwindles, it seems like the marketing department is busier than ever with more opportunities, but with those bigger budgets comes a catch: more pressure to deliver results.

            Here’s the irony though — 70% of marketers are focusing on performance marketing over brand-building initiatives, but the top KPIs are long-term ROI and full-funnel ROI. 

            According to Nielson, a brand loses an average of 2% of future revenue for every quarter it stops advertising, whereas ongoing brand-building efforts can account for 10% to 35% of a brand’s equity. It’s important to balance your short-term performance goals with long-term brand-building strategies. Advocating for a full-funnel approach means recognizing that some insights might be hiding in plain sight! Optimize your budget for short- and long-term goals and reassess underperforming channels for secondary objectives.

            Random’s Take: Performance marketing might garner more immediate and measurable wins, but building a brand is a marathon, not a sprint. Performance marketing does little to attract new customers and can lead to brand erosion when overused. Don’t forget that you need top-of-funnel leads to nurture along the buyer’s journey; without brand-building efforts, you’ll have a tough time converting if consumer’s don’t know who you are first.

            Takeaway #3: Media Balance is Key

            With today’s fragmented media, reaching your audience amidst all of the noise requires a deep understanding of your audience. Nielsen’s data shows the average on-target rate for digital ads in North America is just 65%, and confidence in measuring the ROI of CTV (Connected TV) investments is only 31%. In simpler terms, there are challenges in targeting precision and ROI measurements for digital channels. 

            Random’s Take: Precision is everything! A one-size-fits-all approach won’t cut it anymore — knowing how your audience interacts with media is crucial. A cross-media approach can help overcome these challenges and enhance reach.

            Takeaway #4: There’s a Disconnect Between Insights and Execution

            While 84% of global marketers are confident in their martech’s ROI measurement capabilities, only 38% actually evaluate the holistic ROI across traditional and digital channels. This disconnect means blind spots and misattribution, causing marketers to underestimate the overall impact of their efforts. Not to mention, fewer than half of marketers feel confident in measuring the ROI of individual channels like social media.

            Marketing mix modeling (MMM) tools, like this one by Analytic Partners, offer a full picture of how your campaigns are performing. Even though MMM is highly effective, only 30% of marketers rely on it for measuring holistic ROI. 

            Random’s Take: Ultimately, it’s important to embrace a comprehensive media planning and measurement strategy. This approach will help you make smarter, data-driven decisions and get the most out of your marketing budget.

            —

            Looking to fine-tune your marketing strategy? Our team of experts is ready to help you leverage these insights and achieve your goals. Get in touch with us today, and let’s take your campaigns to the next level!