How is it already October 2023!! This year has hosted many groundbreaking moments in social media, and I'm sure it's not done just yet.

Potentially the largely social news was the introduction of Threads back in July. Owned by Meta and the biggest rival to X (formerly Twitter) in recent years, Threads grew beyond anyone's expectations. With more than ten million people signed up in the first few hours Threads had a lot to live up to.

Firstly, what is Threads?
A new app to rival X (aka Twitter). 
Linked to Instagram, you even use your Instagram login to get started, Threads will replicate your profile almost exactly. You then follow and connect with friends and influencers with similar interests, as you would on other platforms - and again, just like on Instagram!
Threads allow users to post up to 500 characters of text and up to five minutes of video and links, as well as pictures. It is designed to be more informal than Facebook or Instagram. Think of it more as a tool to narrate your day.

3 months on...
After a huge initial response Threads has seemingly dropped into insignificance. Posts that achieve hundreds of likes on Instagram barely have an impact on Threads. I don't think this is a reflection on the content but instead on the platform. Everyone rushed to gain a Threads number and 'test' the platform... and then they left.

What's the future for Threads?
To be honest, nobody knows. As the little brother/sister to Facebook and Instagram it will probably always have a place in the world. However, if it stays on its current path, I have no plans to return to the platform!

​When did you last use Threads? Let me know in the comments...

Each social media platform is different and therefore has different audience demographics. Here are the UK stats:
Snapchat – 57% of users are female. Most popular with 13-24 year olds
Tik Tok – 61% of users are female. Most popular with 18-24 year olds
Twitter – 60% of users are male. Most popular with 18-29 year olds
Instagram – 54% of users are female. Most popular with 18-34 year olds
Pinterest – 72% of users are female. Most popular with 25-35 year olds
Facebook – 52% of users are male. Most popular with 25-54 year olds
LinkedIn – 57% of users are male. Most popular with 30-49 year olds

Every business will have a unique strategy specific to their ideal customer. This can take some trial and error before getting the perfect recipe, however content pillars help make the process easier.
Content pillars are a set of 3-5 topics your content will relate to. They help your feed stay focused. Once you have selected your topic areas you can then rotate them to give a varied profile. Many accounts use the following four content pillars – Engage, Educate, Inspire and Promote.
Other more specific suggestions include:
– Reviews / Testimonials
– This or That / Before and After
– Challenges / Competitions
– Entertain – funny and relatable content
– Did you know questions / Ask the audience
Above all else remember that even if your customers aren’t purchasing through your social media channels, it is effectively your shop window. To make customers stop scrolling it needs to add value and be authentic!

With over nine years social media experience I’m passionate about using my expertise to help businesses grow – both their online accounts and their actual business profits! With over 80% of people now buying online and 85% using social media it’s crucial your business is visible.
Many find social media stressful or too time consuming while they are focusing on their business. Cotswold Connected takes away that stress and time constraint by managing your accounts, creating content and boosting your brands visibility all in one. I maximise your company’s reach while focusing on organic social growth.
If you’re not in a position to have social media management just yet, I also offer 1:1 lessons and power hours. Ensure your business is on the correct track with Cotswold Connected.
Why not get in touch or follow me on social media?
07582 248 380
[email protected]
www.cotswoldconnected.com
Instagram & Facebook @cotswoldconnected

What a day we had at Meadow Barn, Stratford-upon-Avon!

Shoot Participants - 
Sarah Day - One Day Film Productions - [email protected] 
Anthony Hall - Anthony Hall Photography - [email protected]
Sarah Haywood - Sarah Haywood Photography - [email protected] 
Katie Wilber - Cotswold Connected - [email protected]
Annabel Richardson - Annabel Sarah Bridal Shop - [email protected]
Dean Carter - Carter Esquire - [email protected]
Sam Smith - Trust Salons - [email protected] 
Di Hassall - Diane Hassall - [email protected]
Debbie & Bev - The Stratford Park & Golf Hotel - [email protected] 
Lorraine - White Violet Event Dressers - [email protected] 
Hannah Harris - Emmie's Den - [email protected]
Laura Mills - The Enchanted Dreamer - [email protected]
Jo - White Ivy Flowers - [email protected]
Bam - Fizzy Fiesta - [email protected]
Annabelle Gallagher - Belle Peach Creative - [email protected]
Shelley - Elite Limo Services - [email protected]
Matthew Hewston - [email protected]
Nick Giles - Giles Fireworks - [email protected] 
Sam Strecker - Cake Fantastique - [email protected]
White Rose Ceremonies
Chris Onslow - [email protected]