emerging

Social Search Dominance

Social media is replacing traditional search engines, especially for younger generations, requiring brands to optimize for social searchability.

Detailed Analysis

Gen Z is increasingly using social media platforms like TikTok as their primary search engine, bypassing Google. This trend necessitates a shift in brand strategy, prioritizing social media optimization and discoverability. As Launch points out, "Social platforms are set to seriously challenge traditional search engines… Your digital content needs to be entertainment led, social-first in format, algorithm-friendly and effortlessly shareable."

Context Signals

64% of Gen Z use TikTok as a search engine (Adobe). 25% of people primarily use social media for search and communication. Platforms like Reddit are becoming important for organic traffic.

Edge

Brands should invest in social listening tools to understand search trends on social media. Influencer marketing can be leveraged to improve social search visibility. Social media platforms may develop more robust search functionalities.
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TRENDS
Social media is becoming - especially for the younger generation - the new "Google search bar.” The real difference with the old-style search is that people don't look for specific information about products and services but for inspiration.