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Just Another Case of Instagram vs Authenticity?
In case you missed it, Paris-based tech startup Voodoo recently dropped a cool €500 million to acquire BeReal. Their goals? Supercharge the infrastructure, increase user acquisition, fine-tune product strategies, and roll out some killer new features.
I know what you're thinking—yet another social media platform. More content, more time, more energy. For growing brands, it's impossible to dominate them all, which makes it crucial to choose your focus wisely.
But how do you do that without understanding the value of such emerging platforms?
Short answer: You don’t.
So let’s get you up to speed.

Meet BeReal.
Not your typical social platform, it's a space where users can share unfiltered, unedited moments from their lives (think candid selfies and raw emotions). BeReal encourages authenticity above all else— it’s the stark contrast to 2018’s perfectly curated Instagram feed.
To Be or Not To Be…Real? 🧐
Starting with the pay-offs.
💡 Authenticity Sells: In a world saturated with polished content, authenticity stands out. BeReal allows brands to showcase the human side of their business, fostering trust and loyalty among followers.
💡 Real Connection Nurtures Brand Loyalty: BeReal's community is built on genuine interactions. Brands can engage with users on a more personal level, building meaningful relationships that go beyond a simple like or comment.
💡 Honestly, It’s a Low Lift: On BeReal, imperfection is celebrated. Brands don't need to worry about perfect lighting or flawless editing. This level playing field allows smaller brands and creators to shine, regardless of budget or resources.

Now, For the Drawbacks… 🤷
While BeReal offers undeniable benefits, it may not be the right fit for every brand or personal brand. Here are a few things to consider before jumping head-first:
⏰ Random Posting Times: Inconvenient, with limited time to make it happen. If you miss the notification to post, that’s it. You’ve lost out on the app’s key appeal and your singular opportunity for the day.
💬 Limited Engagement Features: No DMs, extensive commenting systems, or the ability to follow hashtags or discover new users easily – while authentic, BeReal has limited social interaction outside of one's immediate circle.

😳 Privacy Concerns: Having a countdown on your time to capture content, combined with sharing both your front and rear camera’s views may, unintentionally, reveal more than usual – giving rise to privacy concerns. You’re not always going to be in peak position at a Harry Styles concert, are you?
That said, if you're a brand looking to share your authentic journey and connect with customers on a deeper, more personal level, BeReal offers a refreshing alternative to traditional social media. It’s certainly one worth considering.
Will you BeReal? If not, why not?
Hit reply and fill us in!
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But wait, there’s more. Check Instagram.

#ICYMI: Instagram’s Ever-Evolving Features
Instagram continues to roll out new additions, including links in Reels, enabling increased click-through rates by removing the need for all those #linkinbio’s.
Music in profiles and Notes are also being tested (a la early 2000s MySpace), creating even more personalization and engagement opportunities. Instagram Notes lets brands share brief, temporary messages with followers, perfect for quick updates, announcements, or insights. Find this feature by heading to your DMs and looking for the “Notes” tab at the top.
🎵 Whether on your profile or as a note, make the most of new music-centric features by choosing songs that reflect your brand’s vibe. Use them to reinforce brand messaging or enhance storytelling in ways that resonate with your audience on a deeper level.
Moving On… TikTok Search Ads. 🔍

Blending discovery with purchase intent, TikTok has begun rolling out search ads, allowing marketers to target users based on their search behavior within the app. This opens up huge potential for brands to reach those users who are actively searching for content related to their products or services.
Who stands to gain big?
✓ E-commerce brands, selling skincare, tech gear, or fitness products. TikTok Search Ads put you in front of buyers actively looking for your stuff. Service providers, like online courses or fitness programs, can be top-of-mind when users seek solutions. Even niche creators and small businesses can shine by offering expert advice or product recommendations to a ready-to-engage audience.
📲 Jump onto this feature: by optimizing for keywords. Make sure your ads include key terms users are likely to search for. Think about the questions or problems your audience might have, and tailor your ad content to address those needs directly.
So, which updates will you find most useful?
Until next time.
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