The Impact of Instagram's Paid Verification on Social Strategies | EP232

"It's OK to have all your eggs in one basket as long as you control what happens to that basket." - Elon Musk.

EP 232

The social media landscape is undergoing a seismic shift, with Instagram's recent foray into paid verification tiers potentially reshaping the way entrepreneurs and social media aficionados engage with their audience online. This development begs a pivotal question: How will the monetisation of what was once a free platform affect the organic reach and connection with our communities? As someone deeply entrenched in the digital realm, it's essential to scrutinise the repercussions of such a move by Instagram and adjust our strategies accordingly.

In the realm of social media, adaptability is crucial. Instagram's experimentation with a paid verification model has the potential to upend the current status quo, emphasising the importance of a nimble approach to online engagement. This new landscape may demand a reassessment of how businesses and individuals interact with their followers, and the potential impact on organic reach cannot be understated. A platform once celebrated for its free access and level playing field may now favour those willing to pay for visibility.

As I ponder my own relationship with Instagram, the prospect of an exit strategy becomes increasingly pertinent. In the event that Instagram's monetisation diminishes the efficacy of my presence on the platform, it's crucial to have a backup plan. The power of an email list emerges as a lifeline in such a scenario—a direct line of communication with your audience that remains unaffected by the whims of algorithm changes or platform policies. Diversification, through avenues such as podcasting, blogging, or personal websites, further solidifies the connection to your community, ensuring that your voice continues to be heard regardless of external changes.

Facebook groups, while still a vital component of a holistic social media strategy, are not immune to the changing tides. The same unpredictability that looms over Instagram could easily spill over to other platforms within the Meta umbrella. LinkedIn, with its growing popularity among B2B interactions, offers a compelling alternative. Its straightforward interface and professional focus make it an attractive option for those looking to build business connections without the clutter and chaos of more traditional social media spaces.

But it's not just about finding new platforms; it's about taking ownership of your content and community. A podcast or blog that you control can serve as a cornerstone of your digital presence, with social media acting as a promotional tool rather than the foundation. This shift in perspective—from relying on social media as the primary mode of engagement to using it as a supplementary channel—can empower entrepreneurs to navigate the digital ecosystem on their own terms.

The impending changes to Instagram underscore the importance of intentionality in our digital endeavours. Whether it's re-evaluating the platforms we use, the content we create, or the ways we connect with our audience, a strategic approach has never been more essential. As we sail through these monetisation storms, it's critical to remain vigilant, adaptable, and above all, true to the core values that have guided our digital journeys thus far.

In conclusion, while Instagram's paid verification experiment poses new challenges, it also presents an opportunity to reassess and fortify our online strategies. By nurturing direct connections with our audience, such as through email lists, and exploring new platforms like LinkedIn, we can ensure that our digital presence is both resilient and responsive to the ever-changing social media climate. The future may be uncertain, but with a thoughtful exit strategy and a commitment to diversification, we can continue to thrive in the digital world. Don't forget to register for podcast updates if you haven't already 😉

Bye For Now!

Show notes Links

Social Jules

EP 212 The Great Social Media Shift < I'm breaking up with insta episode

Access Mic Action Podcast

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Edited and produced by Donna Eade

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