Facebook has recently launched an entirely redesigned trending topics section. The update will help make Facebook users more aware of what is going on in a real-time manor. By quickly glancing at the trending box (in the top right corner) it will be easy for users to see what topics are most popular right now. This is an option that Twitter has long been offering, and it seems Facebook is finally catching up. While Facebook has used hash tags and other items to help people tag their posts, this is perhaps the most significant change to help with current event tracking.
The official Facebook announcement said that trending is, “designed to surface interesting and relevant conversations in order to help you discover the best content from all across Facebook.” The section includes not only the most popular items from throughout Facebook, however, it will also pull in trending topics from your ‘friends.’ When you click on a trending topic, for example, it will bring in posts from celebrities, newsmakers and others. It will also bring in posts that people you know are making related to the topic.
For example, if you’re watching the Winter Olympics, and you click on that topic in the trending box, you’ll be brought to a new page. The page will likely have shared pictures from the Olympics, items that are shared from places like Sports Illustrated, and other global information. You’ll also, however, be able to see your friend’s comment about the figure skating event she just watched, or your mother’s opinion on who is going to win the gold in the bob sled this year.
While this will undoubtedly be a popular tool for users of Facebook, it will also be extremely useful for marketers. Studies have shown that when using trending hash tags on Twitter, a post gets far more clicks and views than when the hash tags are not trending. The same can be assumed for Facebook as well. With this in mind, marketers should always try to check the trending topics before making content or sharing. Tailoring the comments around trending topics can be a great way to boost traffic.
What do you think about this change? Comment below.
