Recently, the internet has grown rapidly to produce new social media networks that will also provide new opportunities for corporations to interact with audiences. With platforms like Threads and BeReal gaining attention, businesses need to ask: Should we invest in these new networks? So what do these platforms have to offer, why are they becoming popular, and should we bother getting involved?

Why New Social Media Platforms Matter for Your Business?

competitive edge—allowing you to:

• Reach untapped audiences – Connect with audiences that may not heavily use other platforms such as Instagram or Facebook.
• Build brand loyalty early – Becoming a leader on a new platform positions your brand as an innovator.
• Experiment with less risk – With fewer competitors, your brand’s content is more likely to stand out and attract attention.

So, what are Threads and BeReal, and how can they help your business?

What is Threads and How Does It Work?

Threads, created by Instagram, is an end-to-end encrypted messaging app that’s meant for use with your close friends. It enables one to provide small updates within a selected circle in a more close and direct way than in the main feed.

Key Features:

• Auto-Status Updates – Let your friends know what you’re up to without typing a word.
• Camera-First Design – Threads is designed with the speed of capturing and sharing the moment in mind.
• Focused Audience – Unlike Instagram which allows people from all over the world and interact with them on a larger scale the app allows people from a single city or country to communicate.

Pros for Business Use:

• Niche Marketing – Threads could be great for businesses that rely on personalized marketing, offering a direct line to loyal customers.
• Community Building – Create smaller, engaged groups for exclusive content or offers.

Cons:

• Limited Reach – Threads is meant for close connections, so reaching a larger audience can be challenging.
• Lack of Public Visibility – Unlike traditional platforms, where public posts gain organic reach, Threads focuses on private interactions.

BeReal: The Rise of Authenticity in Social Media

BeReal stands out in today’s curated social media world by promoting authenticity. Every day, users get a random notice asking them to snap and share an unprocessed picture with their front and rear cameras in under two minutes. 

How it Differs:

• Unfiltered Content – No editing, no filters. BeReal emphasizes sharing life as it happens.
• Spontaneity – The platform thrives on surprise, with users unable to plan or stage content.

Why Businesses Should Care:

• Build Trust – BeReal offers a unique opportunity to connect with audiences through raw, unpolished content, helping build trust and authenticity.
• Appeal to Younger Audiences – BeReal has a strong user base among Gen Z, a demographic that increasingly values authenticity over perfection.

Pros for Business Use:

• View From Behind the Scenes Give your viewers a glimpse into the inner workings of your everyday operations.  
• Appeal to Gen Z – If your target audience includes Gen Z, BeReal may be a perfect fit for your brand’s social strategy.

Cons:

• Limited Control – The unplanned nature of BeReal means businesses have less control over their content.
• No Ads – Currently, BeReal doesn’t support traditional advertising, so brand engagement must come organically.

Other Emerging Platforms to Consider in 2024

Beyond Threads and BeReal, other social media platforms are also gaining momentum. Some noteworthy platforms include:

• Lemon8: A TikTok spin-off focused on lifestyle and discovery content.
  Pros: Ideal for visually-driven brands, with a focus on personal expression and creative exploration.
  Cons: Still in its infancy, so reach and engagement may be unpredictable.
• Clubhouse: An audio-only platform for live conversations and networking.
  Pros: Perfect for thought leadership and community-building through discussions.
  Cons: Engagement is in real-time, meaning businesses need to be consistently active.
• T2: An alternative to Twitter, offering real-time conversations without the noise.
  Pros: Great for brands looking to connect with an audience in a less crowded space.
  Cons: Limited reach of the audience in comparison to bigger platforms.

How to Decide Which Platform is Right for Your Business?

With so many new social media platforms to consider, how do you know which ones are worth investing in? Here are some essential elements to guide your decision: 

• Identify Your Audience: Do these platforms attract your target demographic? BeReal, for example, is popular with Gen Z, while Threads appeals to smaller, more intimate circles.
• Evaluate Resources: Can your team effectively manage a presence on these new platforms while maintaining existing ones?
• Align with Your Goals: Does the platform support your business objectives, whether that’s driving engagement, building community, or increasing brand visibility?

Key Strategies for Success on New Platforms

Once you’ve chosen the right platforms, here’s how to make the most of them:

• Create Platform-Specific Content: Content that works on Instagram might not perform as well on Threads or BeReal. Tailor your strategy accordingly.
• Collaborate with Influencers: Early adopters of new platforms often hold significant sway. Working with influencers can help you connect with their audience.
• Measure Performance: Track your engagement, reach, and conversion rates to see if your efforts are paying off. Use these realizations to improve your strategy.   

Conclusion

While platforms like Threads and BeReal present exciting opportunities for businesses to connect with new audiences, it’s essential to weigh the pros and cons before diving in. Early adoption can be a powerful strategy, but it’s important to ensure the platform aligns with your business goals and target audience.

Ready to explore new social media platforms? Stay ahead of the curve by experimenting with these emerging platforms, and don’t hesitate to adapt your strategy as you learn what works best for your brand.

Curious about which platform suits your business best? Contact us at SunBPO Solutions to get expert advice on navigating the social media landscape and staying ahead in 2024!