Maximizing Engagement and Accessibility: Why Social Audio Beats Live Video in Digital Strategy
The importance of adaptive strategies in social audio is more critical now than ever before. With the dynamic changes in social media and digital communication platforms, live video has become a significant focus for many users and creators. However, the distinct benefits of social audio should not be underestimated, particularly when weighed against live video. This article will explore these benefits from the perspective of the Turtles.
Benefit 1: Enhanced Guest Participation
A prime benefit of social audio lies in its ability to boost guest participation. A notable instance is when Katherine Brodsky engaged Elon Musk in a four-hour dialogue on a social audio platform. This remarkable interaction was facilitated by the convenience and relaxed nature of social audio. Elon could partake in the conversation during a flight and even while tending to his child, scenarios that live video settings would likely hinder.
In additional instances, figures like Andrew Tate and Alex Jones have managed to pull off spontaneous interviews with significant guests, a feat made feasible through Spaces. The hectic schedules of many individuals or their reluctance to appear on live video pose a real challenge. Social audio steps in as an effective remedy, providing a platform for more laid-back and approachable dialogues. Therefore, keeping social audio in your arsenal or tailoring your digital content strategies to accommodate the preferences of your guests can be a strategic decision.
Benefit 2: Focus on Content and Engagement
Social audio allows for a greater focus on content and engagement, as it does not require the visual aspect of live video. This can lead to more in-depth and meaningful conversations. Engaged speaker panels are not distracted by their appearance or surroundings, which can help create more organic flow. However, there is a counterpoint to be made that when people are not on live video, they are more likely to multi-task. I think it is up to each individual Spaces Host to evaluate speakers for themselves, but I think for engaged Speakers who are actively contributing and listening? Audio only can be an advantage for retaining them on your show.
Another advantage of audio only is the lack of visual distractions can encourage more active listening and participation from the audience. People who are commenting or throwing up emojis have more real estate on people’s screens during audio-only vs. video-enabled Spaces.
Benefit 3: Accessibility and Inclusivity
Social audio is a more accessible and inclusive format than live video for many people, including disabled people. For individuals with visual impairments or those who may not have access to broadband or fiber internet, social audio has lower barriers to entry for participating in online conversations and events.
By offering social audio as an option, platforms can ensure that a wider range of users can engage with their content, creating a more diverse and inclusive online community.
Conclusion
While the excitement surrounding live video on social media platforms is understandable, it is crucial not to overlook the unique advantages of social audio. By strategically incorporating social audio into your digital content strategy, you can capitalize on the increased guest availability, focus on content and engagement, and accessibility and inclusivity that this format provides. Maintaining social audio as an option or considering the preferences of your guests can help you create more engaging and meaningful online experiences for all involved.
Overall, I am pretty bullish on Live Video for Spaces. I will be streaming, but it won’t be my primary mode of participating. In addition, I think there are a lot of advantages to enabling live video in your Spaces, particularly with the announcement of the X App coming to Amazon and Google Smart TVs. We talked about this a lot on Good Morning X. Give it a listen below. 👇
