While talking about social media, people generally visualize the biggest networks like Facebook, YouTube and LinkedIn at the back of their minds. However, social media is much more vast, and it definitely goes beyond social networking sites. Each of these network groups has a certain specialization, and accordingly, have their respective user bases. Instagram and Pinterest being two of the relatively new platforms on social media, other platforms are quickly targeting their niche users. In this article, you will come to know about different types of social media platforms.
Social networking sites
Most of the people are familiar with social networking sites. These include websites like Twitter, Instagram, Facebook and LinkedIn. These platforms are basically used for knowledge-sharing and interaction between persons and groups. The users on social networking sites can share their thoughts, upload visuals, create content and form various groups, based on their interests. Accordingly, they can be a part of lively discussions. Social networking sites are developed around the users and focus on all the aspects that are important to their social circles.
Social review sites
With the growth of the eCommerce market, social review sites have gained prominence. While buying online products, people often tend to check out the reviews and recommendations of existing buyers. You might be familiar with review portals like TripAdvisor and Yelp. The community members can post their reviews from different locations and share their experiences. As a result, the new users need not depend solely on guesswork, when they seek services from hotels, restaurants and other service providers. Besides, business firms can benefit from these reviews, whether they are good or bad. In the process, they can get a better understanding of the perspective of the customers and resolve their problems.
Image sharing sites
Some social media sites like Snapchat and Instagram have been developed solely with the motive of sharing visual content. This includes videos, images, illustrations and infographics. Since visuals are powerful, they can easily grab the attention of the customers. Evidently, business firms can benefit from these image sharing sites. The users create and share images, that can initiate conversations. User-generated content forms one of the key components of image-sharing sites. Besides, users can run campaigns on Instagram and other sites. The users carry out discussions over the shared content, which creates a better bond among them.
Video hosting sites
Certain social media sites are used to host videos. Take the instance of YouTube. The users can create and upload video, stream online video, download them and share their opinions. This has revolutionized the way video is shared on social media. Besides, enhancements in connectivity and technology have made more data available to the users. Vimeo and YouTube are two of the largest video hosting platforms. As a result, users can compile content and share them. On these portals, you can stream online videos or promote your brand through creative visuals. Powerful visuals can foster a greater degree of engagement among users.
Apart from the social media sites mentioned above, you have community blogs. On these portals, you can voice your opinions through blogs and online content. You must be knowing about shared blogging platforms like Tumblr and Medium. Besides, you have various discussion sites, where you can share your opinion and find valuable feedback on a given topic from other users. Depending on your goals and activities, you need to choose the right social media platforms.
