China is a very diverse market that has a huge impact on the rest of the world. The social media trends in China are not just a method for people to stay in contact with one another, but these trends also account for the success of businesses and are one of the main methods that these businesses are utilizing to connect with consumers. Therefore, social media not only has to be looked at from a personal standpoint, but from a business standpoint as well.
Within China, social media is very similar to what you would see throughout the rest of the world. However, their social media platforms are slightly different from other areas. The most popular social platforms within the country are: WeChat, Weibo, Qzone, QQ, and RenRen. These social media platforms are what consumers are utilizing as a way to not only talk to one another, but also to show their encouragement or annoyance with businesses in the area.
How Brands Utilize Social Media
Specifically, social media is becoming the number one method for companies to brand themselves within China. These companies realize the huge potential that social media is giving a company and can act on this accordingly. Many companies have started social media campaigns that involve consumer interaction, as well as offering prizes for consumer participation within these social media channels.
Companies want to ensure that their brand is recognized via social media in China, and they develop a strong following. This is all in an effort to ensure the company stays relevant for the future.
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Consumers Utilizing Social Media
Social media being used by consumers is of course for personal use, such as communicating with long lost friends. However, more consumers are talking about the deals they receive from brands, their love of brands, or even showcasing the items they have purchased. This new fad is one reason why brands are desperate to use social media channels.
The Future of Social Media in China
The number of social media users in China is currently estimated at around 381 million. However, this number is expected to grow, with an estimated 504 million users by 2018.
With the estimated number of users continuing to rise year afterย year, social media is holding a special place in the consumer world. This is quickly going to become the main way in which companies can reach consumers, the method for consumers to broadcast opinions and reviews, and the method for consumers to get in touch with one another. Consumers who are not already on social media channels, will become members to these platforms, and will more than likely belong to more than one platform.
Social media, though designed for people to remain social, has quickly become the method for hearing about the latest news, discussing controversies, finding legitimate companies to do business with and the like. And the uses of social media is going to continue to increase with its various uses, ensuring that social media is always going to be evident in the market.
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