Facebook and Instagram are two leading networks of social media giants. They attract millions of users daily. Brands should then decide which is more applicable to their goals.
Know the differences and similarities between Facebook and Instagram. Knowing such can make for better user engagement and a better digital marketing strategy in general. Let's dive into the specifics to help you choose wisely.
Facebook and Instagram serve two different purposes. Facebook is a multi-content type website. One can upload texts and links amongst many other things.
It is designed to provide more interaction and storytelling. However, Instagram is a visual-content website. People mostly share photos and videos on Instagram. It is well designed to attract a younger audience seeking instant visual gratification.
This means marketers face a dilemma that comes with the decision to choose between these two platforms. The decision to invest in either of them is largely determined by the business you work for and how the target audience looks.
1. Post Structure
Facebook allows many types of posts. Users can post text, photos, links, and videos. This means more variety in the means to tell stories.
Instagram is graphics-oriented. The content uploaded includes mostly images and videos and less text.
2. Social Media Games
Facebook has games as a feature. Users can interact through several games. This makes it more interactive. And helps people belong to a community and engage with other people.
Instagram does not have features like this. Users are unable to play games and achieve any engaging material other than comments and likes.
3. Image Albums
Facebook allows users to upload photo albums. This is a feature that allows for the organized sharing of more than one image at once.
Instagram doesn't host albums. However, in stories, users can post multiple photos. This impacts your management of visual content and how you present it.
4. Desktop and Mobile Optimization
Facebook makes for a consistent experience between desktop and mobile devices. Users can share posts and engage on their desktop or mobile devices without issue.
Instagram is largely mobile-oriented. You can't post from a desktop with this. This mobile orientation has a ramification for your content posting strategy.
5. Link Sharing
Facebook link sharing is straightforward. You can share clickable links in the post. This generates traffic to external content. An example of Facebook link sharing is if a user has more than one link. They add it to their posts, creating traffic.
Instagram doesn't have clickable links. Only one link is allowed in the bio section. You have to get creative to drive traffic using this social media.
6. Account Bio
Facebook allows extended business descriptions. Users can provide descriptions, contact information, and links. So much variety makes more brand opportunities accessible.
Instagram does not allow extended business descriptions. Users can include only one link that users can click. So much restraint can affect a larger-scale marketing campaign.
While comparing Facebook with Instagram, the latter platform has higher engagement rates on the parameter of user engagement. Visuals are always easy for brands to connect with an audience.
On the other hand, Facebook is a site that builds relationships and communities. It builds the possibility of more engaged and meaningful interactions with comments, shares, or group discussions.
A brand needs to assess what it wants to do If you are running your campaigns by visuals, Instagram would make sense. If building a community is the priority, then Facebook might work better.
Facebook vs Instagram would depend on what kind of purpose your brand deserves. Each gives an advantage not found in others. Knowing these differences can make your marketing strategy better.
Whether you like the aesthetic of Instagram or whether you like the possibility of using Facebook for varied content, you will achieve highly engaged users. Use both to present yourselves most powerfully.
In the end, it's about which strategy works best for your audience. Choose wisely and get the rewards of effective social media marketing.