Are we sharing for validation or value?

Social media news and tips for the week of April 1st, 2024

Apr 01, 2024

I was initially skeptical about attending Olivia Rodrigo's concert, but by the end of Friday’s concert I was a fan. The vibrant stadium energy, the all-women band's talent, and seeing my 9-year old rocking out with her BFFs alongside their moms were all highlights.

The real magic, however, lay in the songs themselves. Much like Taylor Swift, Olivia Rodrigo is a storyteller. And the stories she tells in her music are the ones I wish I had growing up.

Over the weekend I had a conversation with a friend about this and we realized that we grew up during a time when populat music was dominated more by male artists and bands - Metallica, Nirvana, Pearl Jam, Red Hot Chili Peppers. And while I still loved them, their stories didn’t relate as much to the teen angst I was going through.

The power of relatable stories is undeniable. They connect us, foster empathy, and leave a lasting impression.

What impression are you leaving?

Something to think about this week 💡

Yesterday I posted what was hopefully a fun video of my kids reacting to some Easter pranks. It’s something I rarely do these days as I don’t like plastering their faces all over social media for a number of reasons.

Before posting I went back and forth on whether I should share or not. Would people think I’m bragging or showing off because I did an elaborate Easter Egg hunt? Or make other (moms) feel like they weren’t doing enough?

It’s a thought process I go through a lot these days as I ask myself what’s the reason behind sharing a piece of content. Does it feel authentic or is it something that crosses the line into “look at me, I’m awesome.”?

And is any content we share not about us and making ourselves feel good? Are we sharing for validation or value?

Social media news roundup for the week 📰

Instagram is adding a way for people to comment on a specific carousel slide or photo.
Instagram shares some tips around how to tell better stories.
LinkedIn tests dedicated video feed and rolls out a much requested company page messaging feature.
Threads is testing some swiping action on posts.
TikTok ban being supported by a lot of Canadians too.

Marketing beyond social media

Imagine you have just invented a high-end ceramic barrel curling iron. It’s got some great new features and is made with the latest technology. It’s really cool. But before you share this with the world, ask yourself:

What are you selling?

Are you selling the curling iron or the confidence it will bring someone?

A product that will help the person who has never been able to do their own hair be able to finally do it easily and without frustration. A product that will banish bad hair days and help someone recreate salon hair at home without breaking the bank.

Too often we are selling the what and not the problem we are solving with the products and services we offer.

3 links you may have missed this week 🔗

Four Ontario school boards sue Instagram, Snapchat, TikTok owners over platforms’ alleged harm to students (Globe & Mail)
24 TED talks that will change your life (Chris Donnelly)
Conspiracy, monetisation and weirdness: this is why social media has become ungovernable (Guardian)