Threads - The latest social media platform
If you work in marketing, you've probably been eagerly awaiting the launch of Threads, the latest app from the Instagram team that can be best described as a Twitter-like platform. With Twitter's user experience becoming increasingly cluttered, marketers have been buzzing with anticipation for the arrival of Threads, even though it means more work on our plates.
Let's delve into the details of this exciting new social platform…
Downloading the app
When you download Threads, you'll be prompted to log in via Instagram, which seems to be the only login option available currently. During the setup process, you can easily link your Threads profile to your Instagram account, allowing you to choose the same profile image and bio. Additionally, you can effortlessly follow the same accounts you follow on Instagram. This integration has led to record-breaking follower numbers, with some brands effortlessly launching with 10k followers, which was unheard of for new apps in the past.
Threads and Instagram
If you've been following the news, you may have come across the fact that you can't delete Threads without deleting Instagram. This seems to be a strategic move to boost the user numbers (and prevent them from dropping) for Threads. Furthermore, after installing the app, you may notice a number on your Instagram profile indicating your position in joining Threads. While you have the option to hide this number, it seems like a badge of honor for early adopters.
Posting to Threads
Both brands and regular users are still figuring out how to navigate Threads. Brands are getting creative in starting conversations or simply being the first to try new things on the platform. The app seems to have users in different stages of adoption, but one noticeable trend is the sharing of Instagram content on Threads, as well as Threads content being shared on Instagram stories. Brands are genuinely engaging with their customers and attempting to have meaningful conversations, which is a refreshing change. While I assume brands will develop specific strategies for Threads, you can take inspiration from how you approached Twitter when it first emerged.
Don't forget: Any new social channel or feature makes it "easier" to go viral, so being an early adopter on Threads is crucial to maximize its potential.
Paid Advertising
As of now, there are no paid advertising options available for Threads on Meta Ads Account. However, it's worth staying tuned to see what the future holds, as it's likely that paid advertising features will be introduced within the next 6-10 months.
MYTH BUSTER: Marketers are currently buzzing about whether Threads will end up being just another hyped app that ultimately flops, similar to Clubhouse and, in my opinion, Be Real. However, it's important to remember that Threads is connected to Instagram and created by Meta, a powerhouse in the tech industry. Unlike previous "flop" apps developed by independent parties, I believe Threads is here to stay.