Digital Culture
7 Ways Social Media Shapes Worldwide Routines
By now, social media has most likely infiltrated your life directly or indirectly. Whether it be scrolling through Instagram, hearing family members create TikToks, chat with family on WhatsApp, or send Snapchat streaks. Social media has become a part of the worldwide daily routine. We talk a lot about how broad social platforms are, but we don’t get to put the numbers in perspective. Therefore, today is about showcasing the wide reach of social media through data analysis.
Fact #1: Over half the population has some form of social media.
To think that social platforms reach such a crazy amount of people is impressive. As of 2020, over 3.8 billion people are on an aspect of social media. While it is obviously a huge trend, most people wouldn’t suspect that the reach of platforms such as Twitter and Instagram scale to the billions jointly.
Fact #2: The average internet user has 7.6 social media accounts
7.6 accounts? I’m assuming that includes:
- YouTube
- TikTok
- Snapchat
At first, that number can seem staggering. It’s interesting how each social platform serves a unique part in the daily routine of an internet user. While the apps have separate values, they’re often used jointly with other platforms for an optimized experience.
Fact #3: Users spend around 2.5 hours a day on social platforms
Personally, I use social media a lot. However, that’s mostly because it’s where my business endeavors are located. That makes me wonder: what’re people doing for 2.5 hours if it isn’t related to a venture? I know TikTok is addicting, so I’m assuming that’s a significant factor.
Fact #4: 91% of retail brands use two or more social media channels.
This one is awesome. The best form of marketing for established corporations lies within social platforms. Whether it be posting a new product, interacting with content, or developing a funny personality by hopping on internet trends, social media acts as a marketing channel for large-scale corporations.
Fact #5: Social media marketing scaled up to $90b in 2019.
As businesses begin to recognize the value of social media marketing, it creates revenue opportunities for large niche-related pages. As it continues to grow, so does the value of a large account.
Fact #6: 78% of people watch videos online weekly.
Whether it be via Youtube, WhatsApp, Instagram, Snapchat, TikTok, or some other platform, we’ve all been sent our weekly “meme” video from a parent or relative. This number is fascinating since it highlights how you don’t need an account to view online videos from places like Twitter.
Fact #7: As of 2020, Instagram remains the king of the online realm.
Even with the TikTok takeover, Instagram is averaging over 1B monthly users. The platform has cemented itself as a part of the average daily routine. By combining Facebook, TikTok, and Twitter, Instagram continues to impress.
In conclusion, social media has a far greater reach than we previously imagined. The internet connects people with community platforms, creating an outlet for creative expression, time-wasting, and more.