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Threads, The Twitter Killer
6th July 2023
Before we dive headfirst into this digital yarn, let’s clarify what Threads is. It’s the newest creation from Meta, the artist formerly known as Facebook, whose rebranding makes it sound like it’s fumbling through a midlife crisis. “Say more with Threads – Instagram’s text-based conversation app,” says the official brief. Essentially, you can ‘share your ideas, opinions and creativity’ or post your cat videos with a literary twist.
Before jumping headfirst into the app this morning, here are a few things you and your brand should consider:
1) Securing your username is crucial. When signing up for Threads, Meta allows you to use your existing IG username. Maintaining consistency and avoiding confusion among your followers is a great opportunity. Plus, your loyal IG audience can seamlessly transition and follow you on this new platform.
2) Develop a solid plan before diving into Threads. While a shiny new platform may be tempting, having a well-thought-out channel and content strategy is essential. Consider leveraging your existing Twitter strategy if applicable. By laying the groundwork beforehand, you can ensure a smoother transition and maximise your brand’s impact on this new platform.
3) Organic growth will take the spotlight initially. Based on IG’s previous launch experiences, paid options or placements may be available after Threads. Embrace the opportunity for organic growth and create compelling content that resonates with your target audience. Build authentic connections and establish your brand presence without relying solely on paid promotion.
4) Influencers will lead the charge. When Threads hits the scene, expect notable individuals and celebrities to be at the forefront of its adoption. While brands may not dominate the initial influx of users, you can still leverage this by collaborating with influencers and thought leaders who align with your brand values. Partnering with influential personalities will help amplify your reach and engage with the growing Threads community.
5) Observe and learn from user behaviour. Take the time to understand how people use Threads, what types of content resonate, and how they engage with it. Monitor user preferences and trends to inform your brand’s approach on the platform. By staying attentive and adaptable, you can optimise your content strategy and enhance your brand’s presence on Threads.
6) To delete Threads, you’ll need to delete Instagram. Your Threads account is directly linked to your Instagram account, so you can’t remove one without the other! So, if you decide to backtrack on your Threads strategy, just be aware you might be stuck with it.
Putting all this excitement aside, Threads faces tough competition, especially from Twitter! Despite Twitter’s problems, it’s known for its unique flavour and loyal user base (in other words, people like Twitter because it’s NOT Instagram or Facebook). Changing user habits and concerns over data privacy, political manipulation, and extremism will pose ongoing challenges for Threads.
Meanwhile, Twitter is grappling with issues, including blocked unregistered users and temporary rate limits, with Twitter CEOs’ past and present criticising Threads’ data collection practices adding fuel to the fire.
In this ongoing social media drama, the fate of Threads remains uncertain. Will it rise triumphantly or become another loose end in the tapestry of social media platforms? Brace yourselves, for the saga has just begun.
If you need help navigating these uncertain waters, contact [email protected]