What Are the Different Types of Social Media Platforms?

Human nature is (and always was) based on social activities. Some people tend to be more social (extroverts), and some are not (introverts).

This is why people are always seeking new ways to connect with others. Now that we are living in a society based on technology, people have found ways to join each other through internet which is possible with the advent of the social media platforms and apps.

Social media platforms have different types. Actually, we can name at least eight types on social media, and we are going to.

You can group networks into general categories which focus on what people need to get by using them.

Here is our list of eight types of social media and what they are used for:

1. Social networks:

you can use these platforms to connect with other people. These aren’t the oldest type of social media, but they indeed define it now.
Examples: facebook, linkedin, twitter
Benefits: Brand awareness, market research, lead generation, customer service, relationship building, etc.

2. Discussion forums:

you can share the news and your ideas by using these platforms. These platforms can be significant resources for market research. You can advertise on them, but you need to be careful to keep your posts and ads separate. These are one of the oldest types of social media.
Examples: Reddit, Quora, Digg, Tumblr
Benefits: finding, discussing and sharing news, opinions, and information.

3. Media sharing networks:

you can share photos, videos and other media on these platforms. (photo sharing and video sharing)
Examples: snapchat, Instagram, Youtube, Pinterest, Vimeo
Benefits: audience engagement, brand awareness, lead generation, and most of your other social marketing goals.

4. Content curation and bookmarking networks:

you can find, save and share new content on these platforms. These platforms are a hotbed of inspiration and creativity for people who are looking for new ideas.
Examples: Flipboard, Pinterest
Benefits: driving customer engagement, brand awareness, and website traffic.

5. Review networks:

you can find and review brands and businesses on these platforms. These networks give people a place to evaluate companies, brands, and This may add good values to your websites and online services.
Examples: product hunt, yelp, TripAdvisor, Zomato
Benefits: positive reviews works right for your internet marketing. You can solve issues with your unhappy customers.

6. Publishing and blogging networks(Microblogging):

you can publish your content online on the Internet.
Examples: Tumblr, Medium, WordPress
Benefits: engage with your audience, generate leads and build your brand and sales.

7. Social shopping networks:

platforms for online shopping. Social shopping platforms make e-commerce with adding a social element.
Examples: Etsy, Polyvore, fancy
Benefits: brand awareness, increase engagement, sell products and services via new channels.

8. Interest-based networks:

you can share your interests and hobbies on these platforms. Focusing on a single subject can help you find your audience easier.
Examples: Last.FM, Houzz, Goodreads
Benefits: these are a great place to engage with your customers to build some brand awareness.
source: https://il.ink/blog/social-media/what-are-the-different-types-of-social-media-platforms/