Overcoming Social Media Paralysis - What is Real And What Is Spam?

The amount of data used to grab our attention on social media is overwhelming, whether real or fake. And now, despite its benefits, AI is making it harder to tell what is truly real. Even defining what is “real” is getting more difficult. As a business owner, defining your authentic self and presenting that on your social media channels has never been more important. Now, figuring out who is an authentic customer and not a spammer targeting your social media is just as important. Hiring a social media manager can help you overcome social media paralysis to stay on top of what is real and what is spam in this constantly changing, AI-driven social media environment.  

Remember your customers are also questioning what is truly “real.” It could be one of the reasons why you may be experiencing decreased engagement on your posts. So how do you overcome your customer and potential leads’ social media paralysis? What are the social media giants doing to reduce fake posts? 

Americans Believe Most Of Social Media Content Is Fake

An alarming statistic is that Americans believe that only 37% of the content they see on social media is real, or free of edits, filters, and Photoshop. A survey of 2,000 U.S. adults split evenly by generation showed that 74% can’t tell what is real and what is fake. The results also showed that Americans are wary of both targeted ads (14%) and influencer content (18%). And 41% find it difficult to determine if an item they are considering purchasing online is real or a “dupe”. 

Understanding The Social Side Of Social Media

How much of what people post on their social media channels is an expression of their true self? We have all seen those people who appear to have the perfect life on social media, but their reality is far from perfect. Researchers have been studying the relationships between our online and offline personalities. For some people, social media is an outlet for them to have a different personality than they do in real life. For example, an introvert may be an extrovert online because they feel more confident when not face-to-face. People who are mostly well-mannered in real life may become internet trolls online. 

That’s why marketing experts study the clues we leave behind through our social media activity. They are trying to figure out what makes us tick. They look at what content we like, share, and re-post, and how much we engage with a certain piece of content. They use this research to craft together their social media marketing strategy based on our behaviors when we are using social media. 

How To Stay Authentic On Social Media

In the recent past, content creation trends included inauthentic content being sold as “real life”, Consumers did not appreciate this type of content, and the results spoke volumes. The creators and brands that were showing up on social media more authentically were getting more return on their efforts. They were growing more online communities with an audience that wanted to be there and felt like they were being included in the brand’s journey.

Now, more than ever, showing authenticity in your social media marketing content is important for attracting and retaining customers. Keep these tips in mind to stay authentic on your social media:

1. Only show up when it feels right. It’s not “fake it until you make it”. Forcing yourself to post content may result in inauthenticity. Most people can see right through it.
2. Don’t overshare your emotions. It’s ok to show up on stories and live feeds with real emotions, but don’t force it or overdo it. There is a time and place for tears, if it’s genuine. But too much emotion can feel uncomfortable for viewers. 
3. Share what you know. Sharing your expertise with your audience builds trust. Focus on content that fits your brand, industry, or niche. 
4. Be original. If you want to show authenticity, then don’t copy what others are doing. Share what makes you the amazing person you are. 
5. Don’t forget why you are there. What is your main goal for sharing on social media? How can you tell your story most authentically? Provide your expertise in your field or your passion in a certain area.

Helping You To Overcome Social Media Paralysis 

At Finding Business Balance, we’re experts at helping small businesses in the health and wellness industry with their social media. We help take the paralysis out and create a solution to your marketing difficulties whether it’s keeping up with posting authentic content, helping you with engagement, or finding the creative edge to drive the right targeted customers to you. Be part of our wellness group and stay informed on social media changes relating to wellness businesses by signing up for our free newsletter and you will receive “The Basic Guide To Social Media For Your Small Business” to help you get things started.