Discover August's hottest updates on X, Threads, and Instagram. Plus get the inside track on our team’s latest adventures

We have been busy! Which is fantastic news, because we’ve had more clients deciding to work with us, and we love the fact that more and more businesses are choosing SocialJems as their go-to marketing partner. 

So, what’s next for us? Honestly? More of the same! More creative ideas, more results-driven strategies, and definitely more coffee. We're on a roll, and we're not planning on slowing down anytime soon.

So, if you've been thinking about giving your marketing a bit of a zhuzh, why not drop us a line? We promise we won't bite (unless you're made of chocolate, in which case, no promises).

Stay tuned for more updates, tips, and probably a few more bad jokes. That's just how we roll here at SocialJems! 😉

💎 X Marks the Spot... Where Users Used to Be?

Now, enough about us, let’s talk social media news and updates, starting with X. 

It seems Elon Musk's grand X-periment isn't quite going to plan. Who'd have thought rebranding a beloved blue bird into a mysterious 'X' might not be everyone's cup of tea?

Recent data suggests X (formerly known as Twitter, for those who've been living under a rock) is losing users fast.

After Musk's, shall we say, 'colourful' comments about recent UK events, it seems some users decided it was time to fly the X coop.

While we're not seeing a mass exodus, there’s definitely a steady trickle of users bidding farewell to the platform. 

But it's not just us Brits giving X the cold shoulder. Our European friends are also saying "au revoir" to the platform. Recent data shows a 5% decline in EU users in the first half of this year. That's not exactly the growth story Musk was probably hoping to tweet... er, X about.

What's Behind the Decline?

Is it Musk's penchant for controversy? The platform's identity crisis? Or perhaps users are just fed up with trying to explain to their grans what an 'X' is when they ask about their tweets?

Whatever the reason, it seems X is facing more challenges than a contestant on The Great British Bake-Off during bread week.

The Silver Lining?

X claims they've seen a 10% increase in logged-in users. Hurrah! But wait... they've also restricted what non-users can see, essentially forcing people to sign up. It's like saying you've got more party guests because you've locked the doors.

So, what's next for X? Will it rise from the ashes like a phoenix, or go the way of MySpace? Only time will tell. 

How do you feel about the platform?

💎 Threads: The Little App That Could

There's a new kid on the block, and it's weaving its way into our social media tapestry faster than you can say "hashtag". That's right, we're talking about Threads, Meta's answer to the question nobody asked but everybody secretly wanted: "What if Instagram and Twitter had a baby?"

While X has been busy putting out fires, Threads has been quietly chugging along, gaining users slower but steadily. 

According to SimilarWeb data, Threads usage in the UK is on a slow but sure upward trajectory. It's not exactly setting the world on fire, but it is building up and up.

Meta's Master Plan

So, what's Meta's secret sauce for Threads' success? Well, they're pulling out all the stops:

• Analytics for the Data Nerds: They've rolled out desktop analytics faster than you can say "engagement metrics". Now you can obsess over your view counts, follower growth, and audience demographics to your heart's content.
• Scheduling for the Organised Chaos: For those of us who have brilliant ideas at 3 AM but don't want to wake up the entire Threadsverse, you can now schedule posts. 
• Drafts for the Chronic Overthinkers: Can't decide between 100 versions of the same witty comment? No worries! Threads now lets you save up to 100 drafts. 

Will Threads become the Twitter alternative we've all been waiting for? 

💎 Exciting Update for Instagram Creators!

Instagram just upped the game by expanding carousels to allow up to 20 frames in a single post! 🎉

This means more room to showcase your creativity, whether you're sharing a photo story, a detailed tutorial, or a visual journey. With the new 20-frame limit, you can dive deeper into your content themes and present a more immersive experience for your followers.

📸 Imagine the possibilities:

• A full travel diary in one post
• Step-by-step guides with added detail
• A more extensive portfolio or project display

This update is perfect for anyone looking to make a bigger impact with their content. Hooray!

Now that we’ve talked a little social media, let’s talk SocialJems. 

So, what’s new with Jem? 

Jem has been making the most of her time lately, exploring the countryside with her son Charlie, and creating unforgettable memories. She’s also been catching up with friends, connecting with clients, and even meeting up with a fellow local business owner, with plans to meet again in September.

On top of all that, Jem’s been absolutely smashing it with calls to potential clients—we couldn’t be prouder of her! 

So, what about the Morgenmuffel? 

Sarah's been dealing with the frustration of not being able to book a driving test due to a lack of availability, but there's some exciting news on the horizon! She’s getting closer to buying her very first home and can’t wait to start decorating—she’s already dreaming about putting up shelves. 🏡

This new home is also one step closer to welcoming her much-anticipated dog into her life, and she couldn’t be more excited!

So, what about Sarah A?

Sarah has been working incredibly hard, and we’re truly lucky to have her on the SocialJems team! When she’s not busy with work, you’ll find her either catching up on some well-deserved sleep (she’s a big fan of it!) Or spending quality time with her family.

Thank you for all your hard work, Sarah—we appreciate everything you do! 🙌

Jem is SPEAKING!

We’re thrilled to announce that Jem will be speaking at the Ducks in a Row Marketing Workshop on 10th September 2024! 🗓️

Join us at The Greedy Duck Pub in Leeds for a fantastic morning of insights and strategies. Jem will be sharing her expertise on LinkedIn Tips, alongside other engaging topics such as Branding & Brand Consistency, Websites & SEO, Your Brand/Business Voice, and Social Media Guidance.

📍 Location: The Greedy Duck Pub, Scotchman Lane, Leeds, LS27 0NZ
⏰ Time: 10 AM - 2 PM (includes lunch)

Plus, attendees will get a free professional headshot! Don’t miss out on this valuable opportunity to boost your marketing game and network with fellow professionals.

Who’s going?

Get your tickets here: https://ducks-in-a-row-networking.merlintickets.co.uk/product/EVENT00010

The ULTIMATE networking event is back!

Get ready for an evening of networking, fun, and games at our highly-anticipated Social Games Night on Thursday, October 10th from 6 - 10 PM at Mad Frans Bar, Leeds! 🍹🎲

Expect great conversations, delicious nibbles, and entertaining games that will help you connect with both familiar faces and new acquaintances.

Here’s what’s in store:

• Welcome Drink on arrival to set the tone for the evening
• Tasty Nibbles to enjoy throughout the night
• DJ Tunes to keep the energy high and the dance floor lively
• Games Galore including Giant Jenga, darts, and beer pong

Don’t miss this chance to expand your professional network in a relaxed and fun setting. Tickets are just £25 + VAT, and Mad Frans is conveniently located a short walk from Leeds train station.

Secure your spot now and get ready for an unforgettable night of networking and fun!

Book your ticket here.

🚫 No blog this month

It's been a whirlwind here at SocialJems! With everything going on, we've been dedicating our time and energy to our amazing clients, ensuring they get the best of our efforts.

While there isn’t a blog post this time around, trust us, what we’ve got lined up for September will be well worth the wait. We're cooking up some exciting content that we can't wait to share with you. Can you believe it’s almost September already? 

Stay tuned!