It may seem like social media and the platforms that deliver all of the content that we create every single day are evolving and improving at an astounding rate… but it’s only going to get better (or worse, depending on how you look at it). This week’s reads includes articles about new features of Facebook, LinkedIn, Google+ and Pinterest and how to best utilize them, as well as a look at some of the most interesting social media research and what we can learn from the data.
Social Media
Buffer: The 7 most interesting social media studies and what to learn from them
This story is a summary of some of the most insightful social media studies to date and what we can take away from their findings. From the shelf life of social media posts, to the best times to post on all platforms, there is a ton of great info within.
Facebook/SEO
Search Engine Land: Optimizing for Facebook Graph Search: SEO Meets Social
Facebook Graph Search continues to slowly roll out to the platform’s users after it was announced in January. While it is not yet clear how big of an effect the functionality will have, this story does a good job of highlighting some ways that brands and marketers can potentially take advantage.
paidContent: LinkedIn continues its evolution as a media entity with the launch of magazine-style news channels
LinkedIn is making a real push to turn the platform into a bona fide media outlet and in turn professionals are spending more and more time on the platform. If this very valuable segment of the population is a potential target for your brand, it’s likely time to make LinkedIn a part of your content strategy.
Google+
The Verge: Google+ Hangouts updated with live rewind and instant replay
New updates to the Google+ Hangouts functionality make it even easier to create relevant, real-time discussions that can live on forever with automatically created content. There’s no better way to engage with your most passionate brand fans.
Social Media Examiner: How to Use Pinterest Analytics: 6 Metrics Worth Measuring
Pinterest analytics have only been available for a few months, but they give users some great insights into the effectiveness of the platform and the content pinned therein. This story walks through the six metrics to analyze first. If you haven’t already, verify your website and start digging in.
What GFM Blogged About This Week…
What Print’s Slow Transition to Digital Means for PR
How to choose (and work with) a PR firm
