It’s nearing the end of the year, and that means we’re taking a look back down memory lane – Facebook’s memory lane, that is. It’s pretty easy to tell what topics were hot and top of mind in 2015 by studying what people posted (and shared) on the world’s most popular social media platform. According to Mashable, here’s what ranked the highest this year:
Around the World
Around the world, there were some heavy topics of discussion. It’s not even 2016 yet, but the U.S. presidential election was one of the most discussed topics worldwide, and that means plenty of references to Obama, Hillary and Trump! But politics didn’t completely rule the world stage. Other topics that made the list were the August terrorist attacks in Paris, the Syrian Civil War and refugee crisis, Nepal’s earthquakes and marriage equality. If there’s one thing 2015 proved, it’s that we’re a global community.
Nationwide
Here in the states, the U.S. presidential elections also led the pack of much-discussed topics. From Republican debates to Hillary Clinton’s shoe-in status, the 2016 election saw its share of 2015 limelight (what does that say for next year?) As a nation, we also loved posting about marriage equality, the Charleston shooting and Confederate flag debate and… wait for it… Star Wars (naturally). Americans are an eclectic bunch, that’s for sure.
Politics
When it came to politics, there was plenty of it all over Facebook. And while the elections were a big topic (as we mentioned in the prior two paragraphs), a few leaders led the pack of oft-discussed public figures. Unsurprisingly, Barack Obama was the most discussed politician, with Donald Trump, Dilma Rousseff, Hilary Clinton, Bernie Sanders and Luiz Inacio Lula da Silva also making the cut. When it comes to politics, the good, bad and ugly all wind up on Facebook – and the momentum isn’t going to slow down with a presidential election happening next year.
Athletes
Facebook loves talking about athletes. And with a high-profile fight this year, it’s no surprise that Floyd Mayweather and Manny Paquiao led the list of popular topics. Also on the list were Ronda Rousey, Lionel Messi, Cristiano Ronaldo, Tom Brady, Stephen Curry and LeBron James. From hoops to touchdowns to goals, Facebook friends love a good sporting event.
Entertainment
Here we are now. Entertain us – via Facebook! People love to talk about their most-loved entertainers, especially Ed Sheeran. The Brit was the most popular entertainer on Facebook this year, followed by Taylor Swift, Kanye West, Nicky Jam, Wiz Khalifa, Drake, Pitbull and Caitlyn Jenner. As far as movies go, it’s no surprise that Star Wars: The Force Awakens topped the list, with Game of Thrones winning for top TV show.
What it Means to YOU
When it comes to social media marketing, it’s all about leveraging trending content and popular topics. While we don’t advocate going out and getting all political with your customers (which could really backfire), there are ways to make your social posts seem current, interesting and relevant to your audience by leveraging the most popular topics and discussions of the day. That’s why, at NeONBRAND, we understand that a big part of social media marketing is the listening – not just the talking. When you’re really listening to what’s going on via social media, you’re more prepared to leverage those discussions and topics for your own marketing efforts. Remember, you’re not talking AT your customers; you’re talking with them. And that means talking about the things that interest them.
Okay, okay, enough from us! What was your favorite (or most hated) topic of discussion on Facebook this year? And are you ready for another presidential election year on Facebook?