With the TikTok ban up in the air and Mark Zuckerberg’s recent announcement about Meta’s plans for 2025, many creators and businesses are wondering how these changes will impact their social media presence. As a reminder, Meta owns Facebook, Instagram, and Threads, making these updates relevant for anyone using these platforms to connect with their audience.
What’s Changing?
Meta is transitioning away from a third-party fact-checking system to a new policy called Community Notes, which will rely on user input to report posts. They’re also reducing their use of filters. While this shift could improve your reach—allowing more people to see what you’re sharing—it also brings risks. These changes might create an environment similar to the Facebook of a few years ago, where rage bait and divisive content dominated.
Though these updates may not heavily affect the quilting and crafting community, the potential return of a negative climate could influence how people perceive and engage with your posts. Coupled with AI and bot accounts, building trust on social media might become more challenging in 2025. This could lead to a significant shift, with users leaving social media platforms en masse.
TikTok Ban in the U.S. – Update
For those following the TikTok ban, the Supreme Court has agreed to hear arguments but hasn’t made a decision yet. If the ban goes through, TikTok will be banned as of January 19th. This ban will also extend to Lemon8 and CapCut, as these platforms are owned by the same company, ByteDance.
If you use CapCut for video editing, be sure to save any content stored on the app before January 19th. This precaution ensures you don’t lose valuable assets if the ban takes effect.
Meta and YouTube are actively encouraging TikTok users to transition to their platforms, meaning Reels and Shorts may see a boost in engagement opportunities early in 2025. Meanwhile, many younger creators, including quilters, are exploring Bluesky (bsky.app), a platform not owned by Meta or ByteDance. Bluesky combines the best aspects of Twitter and Instagram and could become a valuable tool for connecting with new audiences, especially modern and younger quilters and crafters.
Building Trust and Connection Amid Change
So, how can we adapt and thrive in this evolving digital landscape? The key lies in leaning on your core content and creating spaces that nurture and inspire your audience. Here are actionable steps to maintain a positive and effective online presence:
1. Focus on Core Content
Your blog, long-form video content, or podcast should be at the heart of your strategy. Use social media to invite your audience into these nurturing spaces where they can engage deeply with your creativity.
2. Engage Authentically
Don’t just post and disappear. Spend 10-15 minutes each day (or every day you post) interacting with others. Here’s how:
Comment on Three Posts: Find three people on your follower list and leave meaningful comments on their latest posts.
Follow Three New Accounts: Look for inspiring accounts that align with your ideal customer or potential collaborators.
Hype Others Up: Celebrate their creativity and be a source of positivity in their journey.
3. Collaborate More
Collaboration builds trust and expands your reach. When you partner with others, you connect two communities, creating mutual support and opportunities for growth. If you’re unsure where to start, the Digital Marketing Coaching Program (DMMC) has resources to help you plan collaborations on and off social media.
4. Invite Them Off Social Media
Use social platforms strategically to direct your audience to your newsletter, blog, or other dedicated spaces. This approach ensures they engage with your content without getting lost in the noise of social media.
Social Media Can Still Be a Positive Place
Despite these upcoming challenges, social media can remain a space for creativity and connection if we approach it with intention. By focusing on genuine engagement and providing value, you can foster a positive environment that resonates with your audience.
For inspiration and updates, follow me on Instagram @quilt_patch and TikTok @quilt_patch. I am exploring Bluesky as well: https://bsky.app/profile/quiltpatch.bsky.socialLet’s
Keep the creativity flowing and the connections growing!
Need Help with Digital Marketing?
If you’re feeling uncertain about how to navigate these changes, the Digital Marketing Coaching Program (DMMC) is here to support you. With resources for social media, collaboration, and more, we’ll help you build trust and authority while sharing your offers with the digital marketplace. Join us today and take control of your digital marketing journey.
Great advice. It is so hard to take a step back to rethink sometimes.