Pilot Fish Media
✕
  • Home
  • About Us
  • Services
  • Case Studies
  • Insights
  • Contact Us

CategoryInstagram

Scroll

In Other News: Musk requests real-time API info from Twitter, Twitter tests “Twitter Write” and Instagram makes an effort to curb underage user base

July 6, 2022 Gra Gareth In other news, Instagram, Social Media, Twitter  

Musk’s team requests more data from Twitter

In the ongoing saga of Elon Musk’s Twitter takeover, the major sticking point for the perfectly safe car manufacturing giant has been a supposed lack of transparency about bot activity on the app.

Twitter initially claimed that bots/fake accounts only make up ~5% of their active user base (that’s 16.5 million bots month on month, which makes Terminator 2 look fairly tame – there were only 2 in that).

Musk fired back, filing a statement with the SEC that the deal would not go forward if this number wasn’t backed up with data provided by Twitter.

Twitter answered with data on users’ tweets and device activity, which was cold comfort to the 51 year old, who tweeted this. Musk also requested that Twitter provide real-time API data, including info on tweet text and images, data on retweets, replies, and quote Tweets, data on tweet author, mentioned users, tagged locations, hashtags etc alongside date, time, location, device info.

Cynical minds would say this is just an ongoing attempt to get the deal to fall through by making more and more ridiculous requests in the guise of due diligence. Not me though!

 

Twitter tests “Twitter Write” for long-form content

In order to keep lengthy blog-like content natively on the platform, Twitter is introducing Twitter Write, which will include a header, unique URL and a 2500 word limit. The new feature is another nail in the coffin of the oft-suggested edit feature, which honestly seems like Twitter’s just ignoring out of stubbornness.

Twitter Write will be available to select users in the US before going global… Unless Twitter realises that brevity is its USP, then maybe not.

 

Instagram tests “video selfies” to reduce underage user base

Instagram has long been blighted by underage users registering by falsifying their date of birth, and Meta has long been blighted by governments and charities suggesting that they’re failing child protection obligations by failing to address this security hole. 

In order to curb this, from July onwards (in the US) the app will require ID verification, a “video selfie”, which gets 3 adult users to verify their age. Alternatively, younger users can stand on each other’s shoulders and wear a big long trench coat before signing up. 

Maybe not the last one.

 

Make sure to follow @pfm_agency to stay up to date with all things social! 

 

Read More

In Other News: LinkedIn adds a ‘funny’ reaction, Instagram launches its infinite feed and Meta offers new creative options for reels

June 22, 2022 Lilly Cohen In other news, Instagram, LinkedIn, Meta, Social Media  

LinkedIn launches new ‘funny’ reaction

LinkedIn has launched the long-anticipated ‘funny’ reaction. In the beginning of the year, the platform’s Chief Product Officer Tomer Cohen said:

‘One of the top requests we got was for a laughing emoji reaction. We hear you loud & clear and we agree. Humor is indeed a serious business.’

The platform’s new 7th reaction has divided opinions. While it was introduced as a request by users, some believe that it will encourage unnecessary and inappropriate posts for a professional platform.

 

Instagram launches TikTok-like full screen main feed 

After a long period of testing, Instagram has now launched its TikTok-like feed, in which all types of posts are expanded into a full screen infinite feed. Meta CEO Mark Zuckerberg shared a story in which he stated that the intention of this update is ‘to make it easier to discover content and connect with friends’.

With TikTok’s groundbreaking format and how it changed user behaviour, platforms are now forced to keep up with the trend in order to maintain their audience. The head of Instagram Adam Mosseri had flagged in December last year that video would be one of the platform’s key focuses moving forward.

 

Meta rolls out more creative options for reels

In line with Instagram’s new feed format, Meta has also launched additional creative options for reels. Users can now remix grid photos and videos into reels, as well as create reels from existing videos on Creator Studio. Following the ever-growing short-form video trend, Meta is now prioritising reels on Facebook and Instagram.

 

Make sure to follow @pfm_agency to stay up to date with all things social!

Read More

In Other News: What’s Changing In Social In 2022

March 17, 2022 Maya Benabdelhadi Facebook, In other news, Instagram, TikTok  

In our latest In Other News blog, we’re taking a look at what’s come to play on social media in the first few months of 2022. From product updates to trend reports, let’s see what’s new!

 

Stay Ahead Of TikTok Trends

If you’re interested in bringing TikTok into your social media marketing, now is a great time to start. 

TikTok has recently launched a number of detailed reports, split by region, that study what’s popular and what’s predicted to rise in industries like:

  • Apparel and accessories 
  • Beauty and personal care
  • News and entertainment
  • Travel
  • Auto and Transportation

Providing insights about growth and trending topics, case studies and tips for brands, these reports are a must read!

 

Instagram Adds Moderators to Instagram Live

Surprised this one took so long? Although Instagram Live has been around since 2016, it’s only now that the company is giving streamers the choice to add moderators to their streams.

Thanks to the new feature, streamers will be able to add moderators who can report comments, remove viewers and stop viewers from commenting. The addition of this feature should – fingers crossed! – make Instagram Live a safer space, with less opportunity for viewers to be abusive towards streamers. 

 

Facebook Reels Go Global 

When your attention span was already caught between video content all over the internet, here comes Facebook Reels. 

With over half of the time spent on Facebook and Instagram being spent on watching video content, it’s no surprise that Facebook has expanded their reels. Video is Facebook’s fastest-growing content form, so expect to see much more of it! 

Facebook is encouraging creators to get involved with monetisation schemes like Reels Play bonus, which is currently an invite-only, US-exclusive initiative that will pay creators bonuses based on the performance of their reels.

And for advertisers? Well, Facebook plans to test full-screen and immersive ads between reels, so keep your eye on what’s in store. 

 

Thinking of how you could use these updates in your digital marketing? Get in touch with me at [email protected] to chat about ad ideas, ad copy and content strategy! 

 

Read More

In Other News – Meta Gets Into NFTs, Messenger Promotes Black History Month And Pinterest Introduces Augmented Reality

February 18, 2022 Lucy Booth Facebook, Instagram, Pinterest  

Welcome back to In Other News, the fortnightly series where we do the reading on all things digital marketing and social media so you don’t have to! This week we have the latest news on Meta, Messenger and Pinterest for you.

 

Meta is set to become one of the first to think beyond NFT profile pictures. 

If you’re new to NFTs, they are basically a unique digital asset, which is often available as a collector’s item. No two NFTs are the same, which allows creators to sell the artwork for extremely high amounts. There really is so much more to learn about NFTs! 

With the world of NFTs currently booming across the globe, Meta has announced that they will be upgrading their social media platforms to benefit avid NFTers. Not only will Facebook and Instagram users be able to display their NFTs as their profile picture, they will also be able to create and collect NFTs on the platforms. The team at Meta are currently working on a prototype model for this, the release date has yet to be confirmed. 

Further down the line, Meta are expected to launch a marketplace for users to buy and sell NFTs on Facebook & Instagram. 

 

Messenger Adds New Tools for Black History Month 

We’re stoked to see Messenger have broadened the conversation around Black History Month by adding themed stickers to the app. 

Users will now be able to pick from a variety of Black History Month stickers and add them to their stories and messages to show their support and to build more awareness. The feature is even available to Messenger Kids, helping to educate them that little bit further, stimulate conversation and tear down barriers. 

 

Pinterest introduces AR technology feature, opening up the home decor shopping experience. 

During the pandemic, the world of eCommerce has taken off massively. More and more shoppers are choosing to buy online. As a result, Pinterest has released a new feature that makes the home-decor shopping even easier by enabling Pinners to virtually place furniture in their room. Using the Pinterest Lens camera, shoppers can ‘try before they buy’ to find exactly what’s right for their space. This is a great way for retailers to advertise their products and drive sales.

At the moment, the feature only includes products from US retailers. We look forward to seeing how this develops over time!

 

 

Keep up to date with all things social by following us on Instagram – @pfm_agency

Read More

In Other News: Insta Introduces Subscriptions, Facebook Adds New Features And Meta Develops Framework For ‘Virtual Influencers’

January 24, 2022 Rachel Fox Facebook, Instagram  

This week, we bring you more of the latest social media news to keep you on your toes and, most importantly, up-to-date with all things social! 

 

Instagram Introduce Subscriptions 

In a bid to help their creators make a living through their platforms, Meta have pulled together a host of tools allowing them to do so.

The new monetisation feature on Instagram will not only allow creators to earn money from their audience, brand partnerships and advertising products/services, but it will also help them to earn money directly from Instagram and Facebook. 

The Subscription tool was previously launched on Facebook in 2020, however, Meta have since said they are now ready to bring it to Instagram following positive feedback. It should help creators build stronger and deeper connections with like-minded followers and in turn, grow their income by giving their subscribers exclusive access to content and benefits on Instagram. 

 

Facebook Introduces New Feature for Creator Studio 

This week, Facebook announced they are set to introduce new and exciting features for Creator Studio. Creator Studio is a great platform for anyone working in the digital marketing or the social media industry.

Users will be able to preview their stories when they upload a video, which should help attracting attention to the full video on the user’s page. In addition to this, a timeline view will be added to allow users to check out how their posts will appear on a follower’s feed. 

 

Meta is developing ‘Ethical Framework’ for the use of virtual influencers

Due to the rise of VR & AR technologies, virtual influencers are becoming more popular and normal across social media. As a result, Meta have said they wish to develop clearer boundaries to prevent potential influential harm. They believe there should be a degree of transparency when it comes to virtual influencers to avoid any damaging consequences to followers.

Want to know more about what’s going on in social media? Get in touch with me at [email protected] to chat!

Read More

How To Get Your Content Seen On Instagram In 2022

January 17, 2022 Rachel Fox Insights, Instagram, Small business  

Is your brand set to stay ahead of the constant algorithm changes on Instagram?

Ever since the platform moved away from reverse-chronological and to a curated content feed in 2017, it’s not always an easy question to answer. 

​​Based on what we know about how the algorithm works and what we’ve seen firsthand, growing your reach and engagement is certainly possible in a curated feed. Below we have taken some time to share our top tips to help maximise the chance of your organic content reaching far and wide.

 

1. Find your niche

In order to grow your following, you need to understand your target demographic. By taking time to understand this first you will eliminate the chance of people hitting that dreaded unfollow button when they see they don’t relate to the content you are sharing. 

Have a think about who your ideal audience is and how you would like them to interact with your social media account and brand. Although it’s great to be multi-faceted, if you have an activewear brand and empowering people on their fitness journey is your focus, you will be looking for exercise and sport enthusiasts to begin with. Before you start uploading content, it’s important to keep this in mind in order to help you stay on, thus helping you reach your goals.

 

2. Share higher quality content

Instagram has said it themselves, you are more likely to rank higher in your followers’ feed if you are sharing “great content”. Of course content – much like art – is subjective and whilst you may think the content is great, the Instagram algorithm may disagree.

Understandably, the platform hasn’t shared any specific details on this but as long as your content is high-quality and eye-catching (think bright and bold, like a breathtaking landscape shot of Edinburgh Castle in the summer), your audience will more likely be stopped in their tracks so that they can hit the like button!

It may be that the content you are sharing is already considered “great”. If you don’t feel like you’re quite there, get in touch and we will be more than happy to help you get on the right path.

 

3. Post more portrait content

Yes…really! For so long we all got used to posting all of our content in a 1:1 ratio, as that’s all that we were able to do. Quite a while ago now Instagram allowed users to post in 2:3 and shortly after they finally made the max ratio 4:5. 

There’s no fancy explanation as to why you should avoid posting in 2:3 and try to post as much content as possible in 4:5 (or 1:1 square formats as a minimum). It simply allows you to take up as much of the screen as possible. Meta, who owns both Facebook and Instagram, revealed that on a desktop computer, the average attention span is 2.5 seconds, but on mobile, it is only a mere 1.7 seconds. Basically, the more screen space you take up (with “great content” like we mentioned previously, of course) the more likely you are to capture the attention of viewers.

 

4. Craft more gripping captions

Have you ever been endlessly scrolling Instagram and finally an image or video catches your eye, but you don’t really know what you’re looking at? To save the frustration, try and keep your followers engaged with great copy that explain what they are seeing with clarity!

It’s no secret that people like to feel connected to accounts they follow on Instagram (especially brands!) and copy can be key when building on those connections. It’s a space where you can show your brand’s personality while still being informative or descriptive. Consumers like simple yet intriguing text to read and captions are the perfect way to embody that.

Copywriting is a difficult skill to master. If you find your brand needing help with this we suggest contacting our two incredible copywriters Freya ([email protected]) and Lucy ([email protected])!

 

5. Publish more video content

Director of Instagram, Adam Mosseri, recently finished a talk in June of this year where he announced the platform is getting ready to pivot in order to compete with leading app TikTok with the sentence “We are no longer a photo-sharing application or an application to share square photos”. During this same talk, it was established that with the new changes the platform has now implemented, video content would be given priority over photos to remain in force. 

If this is not reason enough to start focusing on video content, then we don’t know what is. Instagram is constantly changing but with these changes we now have multiple ways to publish our video content such as stories, reels and Instagram TV. 

6. Use hashtags to your advantage

Hashtags can be a brilliant way to reach new audiences on the platform. Considering they require very little effort and are free to use, when using them correctly you will find people who are interested in your content coming straight to your page. 

In order to make the most out of your hashtags, we suggest:

  • Play around with the amount of hashtags you are using along with the placement of them (currently it seems hiding around 3-7 hashtags in your caption works well!).
  • Snoop around on the app before posting to find out what hashtags are working that are relevant to your brand and industry. 
  • Keep a list! If you can make a note of the hashtags you are using then you will see overtime what is working for you. This will also allow you to easily change up the hashtags you are using every so often which in turn will help you reach more people.

 

7. Post during peak hours

Lastly, it goes without saying that you should be posting when your target demographic is most active and engaging with your content. Optimal posting times can change from brand to brand but this is where Insights come into play.

When on a business account, you will have access to a special ‘Insights’ tab which is full of great data. It will allow you to see what days and times your content is generating the most impressions and interactions! This will help you see when the majority of your following is online. The more consistently you are posting, the more data the app will gather for you and help you in the long run. 

When you finally are able to suss out your optional posting hours, we still recommend spacing out posts and not cramming in multiple posts within a small time frame. This won’t help your content get more attention and may have your following feeling inundated with your brand (we can all agree that we don’t want this!). If you do have multiple images you want to be seen, consider making them into a carousel post.

 

 

We could probably go on and on with more tips and tricks on how to make sure your content is getting shared to as many people as possible. However, these are the 7 tips we think will be most helpful in getting you started. 

 

 

Need some inspiration for your social media marketing? To get a free audit of your current social strategy, get in touch at [email protected].

Read More

Posts navigation

1 2 3
All rights reserved.