Content industry standards today have undergone many changes due to the advent of the Internet and social media era. In your opinion, what are the standards adopted today?
Hi Bassim Waheed Jony . I believe the way we create media content on social media has changed a lot over the years, especially with how quickly the internet and digital platforms have evolved. These days, authenticity and transparency are more important than ever. People want to see content that feels real and reflects the creator’s or brand’s true values. For example, brands like Patagonia are known for being upfront about their sustainability goals, which has helped them build trust with their audience. Similarly, influencers like Emma Chamberlain connect with people by being relatable and showing unfiltered moments from their daily lives. This kind of honesty goes a long way in building credibility and fostering lasting engagement.
Another key factor is making sure your content is relevant and offers real value to your audience. Whether it’s educational, entertaining, or inspiring, your content should resonate with the people you’re trying to reach. Take Duolingo’s TikTok account, for instance—they’ve nailed the balance between humor and practicality, making language learning fun and engaging for their followers.
Consistency is also really important. Posting regularly and maintaining a cohesive tone or style helps your audience recognize and trust your brand. A good example is Nike—they’re consistent in using motivational messaging and high-quality visuals across all their platforms, which reinforces their identity. That said, it’s not just about posting often—it’s about making sure your content is high-quality. A single, well-thought-out post will always have more impact than several rushed ones.
Engagement is another big piece of the puzzle. Social media is all about interaction, so your content should encourage people to participate—whether that’s through comments, polls, challenges, or even just asking questions. Starbucks does this really well by inviting their community to share their favorite drink combinations, which not only sparks conversations but also creates a sense of belonging.
Social media is constantly changing, so being adaptable and open to new trends is key. Experimenting with new formats like reels, stories, or live streams can help keep your content fresh. Sephora, for example, has embraced live shopping events on Instagram, which is a great way to combine innovation with audience interaction.
At the same time, it’s important to approach content creation ethically. This means respecting intellectual property, avoiding misinformation, and being mindful of cultural sensitivities. Dove’s “Real Beauty” campaigns are a great example of this—they promote inclusivity and body positivity while steering clear of harmful stereotypes.
Lastly, using data to guide your strategy is a game-changer. Analytics can show you what’s working and what’s not, so you can fine-tune your content to better connect with your audience. Netflix, for instance, uses data to highlight trending shows and tailor their posts to specific audience segments, which keeps their content relevant and engaging.
By focusing on these principles—authenticity, relevance, consistency, engagement, adaptability, ethics, and data—you can create content that not only resonates but also builds meaningful connections with your audience. Social media is always evolving, but staying flexible, audience-focused, and committed to delivering value will help you stand out in this dynamic space. I hope that helps.