Social media glossary
Lost in social media marketing terms? Our clear glossary explains all the important terms, buzzwords, and industry jargon, you need to know to level up your social media knowledge.
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A/B Testing
A/B testing, or split testing, is a method for comparing two versions of a webpage, advertisement, or other content to identify which performs better based on specific goals, such as conversions or en
ABM - Account-Based Marketing
Account-Based Marketing (ABM) is a targeted business marketing strategy focused on high-value accounts or specific customer segments. Rather than broad outreach, ABM emphasizes personalized marketing
Above the Fold
Above the Fold refers to the portion of a webpage or social media post that's visible to users immediately upon loading, without requiring any scrolling.
Ad Campaigns
Ad campaigns are structured marketing efforts that leverage one or more social media platforms to promote products, services, or events.
Advertising
Social media advertising refers to the process of promoting products, services, or brands through paid content distribution on social media platforms. This approach involves leveraging the vast reach
Affiliate Marketing
Affiliate marketing is a performance-based strategy where businesses reward affiliates (individuals or companies) for driving traffic, leads, or sales through their promotional efforts. This approach
Affinity Marketing
Affinity marketing is a partnership strategy where two companies with overlapping target audiences collaborate to promote each other’s products or services.
Agile Marketing
Agile marketing is a strategic approach that emphasizes flexibility, rapid adaptation, and continuous learning in marketing efforts.
AI - Artificial Intelligence
Artificial Intelligence, or AI, refers to the simulation of human intelligence in machines. These systems are programmed to perform tasks that typically require human cognition, such as understanding
Algorithm
A social media algorithm is a set of rules and processes that platforms use to determine which content appears in users’ feeds.
Algospeak
Algospeak is a way for social media users to get around content filters by using alternative words, phrases, or emojis. These "code words" help people discuss sensitive or restricted topics without ri
Alt Text
Alt text, or "alternative text," is a brief description added to images on websites and social media posts.
AMA - Ask Me Anything
AMA stands for "Ask Me Anything." It's an interactive format where an individual, often an expert, celebrity, or influencer, invites their audience to ask them any questions. The host then answers the
AMOS - Add Me On Snapchat
AMOS is an acronym commonly used on social media platforms like Instagram or TikTok. AMOS stands for "Add Me On Snapchat," and it is an invitation or request for other users to add the person on Snapc
Analytics
Analytics is the process of collecting and analyzing data from social media platforms and other sources to understand user behavior and measure the effectiveness of marketing efforts.
Applied Marketing
Applied Marketing is the practice of transforming core marketing theories into actionable strategies to drive measurable results.
Approval Checklist
An Approval Checklist is a structured list of criteria used to review and approve content before it goes live on social media.
Approval Workflow
A social media approval workflow is a structured process that controls how content moves from creation to publication on social media channels. It ensures all posts meet quality standards, brand guide
Archiving
Archiving on social media refers to process of preserving and storing content, such as posts or stories, in a hidden section of an account.
ARR - Annual Recurring Revenue
Annual Recurring Revenue (ARR) is a crucial financial metric that measures the predictable revenue generated by a subscription-based business over a year. In social media and SaaS platforms, ARR helps
Audience
An audience in media is the group of people who consume or engage with a particular piece of content, whether it’s a TV show, news article, podcast, or social media post.
Automated Posting
Automated posting refers to the process of scheduling and publishing social media content automatically, using software tools without user intervention.
Avatar
An avatar in social media is a visual representation of a user, often used as a profile picture or icon that helps identify them across platforms.
Average response time
Average response time refers to the typical amount of time it takes for a business or individual to reply to messages or inquiries on social media.
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B2B Marketing
B2B marketing, or business-to-business marketing, focuses on selling products or services from one business to another rather than directly to individual consumers.
B2C Marketing
B2C marketing, or business-to-consumer marketing, refers to strategies and tactics used by businesses to promote products or services directly to individual consumers. This type of marketing often inv
Backlink
A backlink is a link from one website to another, serving as a key factor in SEO (search engine optimization). High-quality backlinks from reputable sites signal to search engines that a website is tr
Banger
In social media and digital marketing, a "banger" refers to a highly engaging, popular post or piece of content that performs exceptionally well, often going viral. Bangers are typically memorable, re
Batch Scheduling
Batch scheduling is a strategic social media management technique that involves planning, creating, and scheduling multiple social media posts in a single session, rather than posting content individu
Best Posting Time
The best posting time refers to the optimal hours and days when your social media content is most likely to reach and engage your target audience effectively.
Bio
A social media bio is a short, distinctive description in your profile that tells visitors who you are and what you do. Bio typically appearing prominently on your profile and often limited to 150-160
Blog
A blog is a frequently updated website or web page, usually managed by an individual or small group, and written in a casual or conversational tone. It serves as a platform for sharing personal insigh
Blue Checkmark
The blue checkmark is an iconic symbol across social media platforms, representing verification. This coveted badge is a testament to the authenticity and credibility of a user or account.
Bluesky
Bluesky is a decentralized social network created by former Twitter CEO Jack Dorsey. It operates on the AT Protocol, developed by the Bluesky team, offering transparency into its construction and func
Boost, boosted post
A boosted post is a paid social media promotion that amplifies the reach of your existing content on platforms like Facebook, Instagram, and LinkedIn. By boosting, you turn a regular post into an ad,
Bottom of the Funnel
The "Bottom of the Funnel" refers to the final stage of the marketing funnel where potential customers are nearing the point of making a purchase or conversion decision. At this stage, marketing effor
Bounce rate
Bounce rate measures the percentage of visitors who leave a website after viewing just one page. It reflects the initial engagement and content relevance to the audience.
Brand activation
Brand activation is all about creating an emotional bond with your audience through interactive experiences and events. It surpasses traditional advertising by engaging people on a deeper level, makin
Brand advocate
A brand advocate is someone who genuinely loves your brand and shares their positive experiences with others, without any payment. These devoted fans are essential for spreading word-of-mouth marketin
Brand ambassador
A brand ambassador is someone hired to represent and promote a company's brand, products, or services.
Brand authenticity
Brand authenticity is all about how genuine, sincere, and trustworthy a brand appears to its customers and stakeholders.
Brand awareness
Brand awareness measures how familiar people are with your brand. You can assess it by tracking online mentions and engagement over a specific period. The more people discuss your brand, the higher yo
Brand essence
Brand essence is the core identity of a brand, providing a foundation for consistency and authenticity. It defines the brand's values and aims to evoke specific thoughts and emotions in consumers.
Brand identity
Brand identity refers to the unique set of characteristics, values, and visual elements that distinguish a brand from its competitors. It includes everything from a company's logo, color scheme, and t
Brand loyalty
Brand loyalty is when a customer consistently chooses your products over competitors’.
Brand management
Brand management involves planning and analyzing how a brand is perceived in the market. It ensures that a brand aligns with its core values, creates a distinct identity, and consistently delivers cle
Brand monitoring
Ever wonder what people really think about your brand? Brand monitoring is your answer.
Brand narrative
A brand narrative is the story that a company tells about itself to engage customers and create an emotional connection. It encompasses the company’s history, mission, values, and the journey it under
Brand Partnership
A brand partnership is a collaboration between two or more brands or organizations that aims to create mutual benefits through shared efforts, resources, and audiences.
Brand personality
Brand personality refers to the human traits associated with a brand, influencing how consumers emotionally and socially connect with it. It is developed through marketing, communication, and customer
Brand reputation
Brand reputation is how the public views your brand. It encompasses the opinions and feelings of customers, employees, and partners during every interaction.
Brand style guide
A brand style guide is a comprehensive document that outlines the visual and verbal elements that represent a brand, ensuring consistency across all marketing materials and communications.
Brand value
Brand value refers to the perceived worth of a brand, based on its reputation, customer loyalty, market position, and the emotional connection it creates with its audience.
Buzzword
A buzzword is a term or phrase that becomes popular within a particular industry or social context, often used to attract attention, convey a trendy concept, or emphasize a particular idea. While buzz
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Calendar view
A calendar view is a feature in social media scheduling tools that displays scheduled posts in a calendar layout.
Cap
In social media marketing, a "cap" refers to a limit set on a particular metric, like daily ad spend, impressions, or clicks. Caps help control costs and manage campaign exposure to prevent overspendi
Carousel post
A carousel post is a social media format that allows users to upload multiple images or videos in a single post, viewable by swiping left or right.
Cheugy
Cheugy is a slang term used to describe something that is outdated or trying too hard to be trendy, especially on social media. Often applied to fashion, decor, or online behavior, "cheugy" has become
Churn rate
Churn rate is a metric that measures the percentage of users or subscribers who stop using a service over a specific period. In social media, it reflects the effectiveness of engagement strategies and
Clapback
A clapback is a witty, often humorous response to criticism or negative comments on social media. Brands and influencers use clapbacks to defend themselves while showcasing personality and humor.
Clickbait
Clickbait refers to content created with sensational or misleading headlines to entice users to click. While it can boost short-term engagement, excessive use of clickbait may lead to a negative user
Client Approval
Client approval is the process of obtaining a client’s formal acceptance of work or content before it is published or finalized. This ensures that the content meets the client’s standards and aligns w
Client Feedback
Client feedback refers to the input or opinions provided by a client regarding a project or content. This feedback guides improvements and adjustments to meet client needs and preferences.
Client Reporting
Client reporting is the process of sharing performance data, updates, and insights with clients to keep them informed about project progress. These reports may include metrics, milestones, and actiona
Clout
Clout refers to the level of influence or popularity someone has on social media. Users with high clout are often seen as trendsetters or authoritative voices within their niche.
CMS - Content management system
A Content Management System (CMS) is a software platform that enables users to create, edit, and manage digital content on a website without extensive technical knowledge. Examples include WordPress,
Co-Marketing
Co-marketing is a collaborative marketing strategy where two or more brands partner to promote content, products, or services together. This approach leverages each brand’s audience to increase reach
Collaboration Tools
Collaboration tools are digital applications designed to facilitate teamwork by providing shared workspaces, communication channels, and project management features. Examples include Slack, Trello, an
Collaborative Platform
A collaborative platform is an online environment where users can work together in real-time on projects, files, and discussions. These platforms are commonly used in workplaces to enhance cooperation
Community
A community in social media is a group of followers, users, or fans who share common interests and actively engage with a brand or topic. Building a community fosters loyalty and deeper connections wi
Community Management
Community management is the process of building, growing, and nurturing an online community. This involves engaging with members, moderating discussions, and providing valuable content and support.
Community Manager
A community manager is responsible for overseeing a brand’s online community, engaging with members, and facilitating conversations. They act as the brand’s voice and ensure a positive community exper
Content
Content refers to any type of information or media—such as articles, videos, images, and social media posts—created to engage, inform, or entertain an audience. It’s a core component of digital market
Content AI
Content AI refers to artificial intelligence tools used to create, analyze, or optimize content. These tools assist with tasks like content generation, SEO optimization, and personalization.
Content Analytics
Content analytics is the process of collecting and analyzing data on how content performs across various channels. It includes metrics like engagement, reach, and conversion rates to assess effectiven
Content Approvals
Content approvals are part of the content creation workflow, where drafts are reviewed and approved before publication. This process ensures content accuracy, quality, and alignment with brand standar
Content Calendar
A content calendar is a planning tool that organizes upcoming content by date across various channels. It helps brands plan, schedule, and manage their content distribution to maintain a consistent pu
Content Creator
A content creator is an individual or team responsible for producing digital content, including videos, blogs, social media posts, and more, aimed at engaging an online audience.
Content Curation
Content curation involves selecting, organizing, and sharing high-quality content from various sources to provide value to an audience. Curated content is often relevant to the brand’s niche or audien
Content Distribution
Content distribution is the process of sharing and promoting content across various channels, including social media, email, and third-party platforms, to reach a wider audience.
Content Formats
Content formats are various types of media used to share information, such as blogs, videos, infographics, podcasts, and social media posts. Different formats appeal to different audience preferences
Content Marketing
Content marketing is a strategic approach to creating and sharing valuable, relevant content to attract and retain an audience. The goal is to drive profitable customer action through non-promotional,
Content Metrics
Content metrics are data points that measure the performance of content, such as views, shares, likes, engagement rate, and conversion rate. These metrics help marketers assess content effectiveness.
Content Optimization
Content optimization is the process of enhancing content to improve its visibility, engagement, and effectiveness. This includes SEO techniques, keyword integration, and adapting content to fit audien
Content Repurposing
Content repurposing involves transforming existing content into new formats, such as turning a blog post into a video or infographic. It maximizes the value of content by extending its lifecycle.
Content Shock
Content shock occurs when the volume of content exceeds audience capacity to consume it, making it harder for individual pieces to stand out. This phenomenon has increased as content production grows
Content Strategy
Content strategy is a plan for creating, distributing, and managing content to achieve specific marketing objectives. It aligns content with business goals, ensuring consistency and relevance.
Content Supply Chain
The content supply chain refers to the entire process of content creation, from ideation to distribution and performance tracking. It involves collaboration between teams to streamline content product
Content Syndication
Content syndication is the process of republishing content on third-party platforms to reach a wider audience. Commonly used in B2B marketing, it extends content visibility beyond owned channels.
Conversion Rate
Conversion rate is the percentage of users who take a desired action, such as making a purchase, signing up, or downloading content, out of the total users who visited a page or interacted with an ad.
Corporate Social Responsibility
Corporate Social Responsibility (CSR) refers to a company’s commitment to ethical practices that benefit society and the environment. CSR initiatives can include environmental sustainability, communit
CPC - Cost per click
CPC, or Cost per Click, is an advertising metric that tracks the cost of each click on an ad, measuring direct engagement rather than just impressions. CPC is used in pay-per-click (PPC) advertising c
CPM - Cost per Mille
CPM, or Cost per Mille, is a metric that represents the cost of reaching 1,000 impressions or views of an ad on social media or other digital platforms. It’s widely used in advertising to budget and m
Creative Strategy
A creative strategy is a plan for delivering brand messaging in a way that resonates with the target audience. It combines creative direction, media planning, and storytelling to capture attention and
Creator economy
The creator economy consists of digital content creators who monetize their online presence through social media, sponsorships, and merchandise. It includes influencers, bloggers, vloggers, and other
Cringe
Cringe describes something awkward, embarrassing, or out of touch, often used to criticize posts, videos, or behaviors on social media. It’s a common term among younger audiences to express discomfort
Crisis Management
Crisis management involves handling unexpected events or issues that could harm a brand’s reputation. In social media, this often includes responding to negative publicity, customer complaints, or con
CRM - Client Relationship Management
CRM, or Client Relationship Management, is the practice of managing interactions with current and potential customers. CRM systems help businesses track customer data, communications, and transactions
Cross Channel Marketing
Cross-channel marketing is a strategy that involves connecting with customers across multiple platforms, such as social media, email, and in-store experiences. This approach aims to provide a cohesive
Cross Device Marketing
Cross-device marketing targets users across different devices—such as smartphones, tablets, and desktops—to deliver a seamless experience. This approach recognizes that consumers switch between device
Cross Posting
Cross-posting is the practice of sharing the same content across multiple social media platforms. It helps brands reach a wider audience and maintain a consistent online presence without creating sepa
CSAT - Customer satisfaction score
CSAT, or Customer Satisfaction Score, is a metric that gauges customer satisfaction by asking users to rate their experience with a service or product. CSAT is commonly used to assess and improve cust
CSS - Customer Service and Support
CSS stands for Customer Service and Support, which involves assisting customers with inquiries, issues, and needs related to a product or service. Good CSS is vital for maintaining customer satisfacti
CTA - Call to Action
A Call to Action (CTA) is a prompt encouraging users to take a specific action, like “Sign up now,” “Learn more,” or “Buy today.” CTAs guide users toward desired goals and help drive engagement and co
Customer Acquisition
Customer acquisition is the process of attracting new customers to a brand’s products or services. It involves various marketing and sales strategies aimed at building awareness, generating interest,
Customer Acquisition Cost
Customer Acquisition Cost (CAC) is a metric that calculates the total expenses incurred to acquire a new customer, including marketing, sales, and related costs. It’s often measured by dividing the to
Customer Insight
Customer insight refers to the analysis of customer data to understand their behaviors, preferences, and motivations. These insights help brands tailor their marketing strategies, products, and servic
Customer Journey
The customer journey is the path a customer takes from discovering a brand to making a purchase, and beyond. It includes various touchpoints, such as awareness, consideration, and decision stages, tha
Customer Lifetime Value
Customer Lifetime Value (CLV) is the projected revenue a business can expect from a customer over their entire relationship with the brand. It’s a crucial metric for evaluating long-term profitability
Customer Management
Customer management involves building and maintaining positive relationships with customers through personalized communication, service, and support. It’s a critical part of fostering loyalty and enco
Customer Marketing
Customer marketing focuses on engaging existing customers through targeted campaigns, aiming to increase loyalty, retention, and repeat purchases. It includes personalized content, loyalty programs, a
Customer Retention Rate
Customer Retention Rate is the percentage of customers a business retains over a specific period. It’s calculated by measuring the number of repeat customers against total customers at the start of th
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Dark Post
A dark post is a paid social media advertisement that doesn’t appear on the brand’s public feed but is shown only to specific audiences. This allows brands to create targeted ads without cluttering th
Dark Social
Dark social refers to traffic from links shared privately through messaging apps, emails, or direct messages, which are harder to track. This form of sharing is challenging for marketers to measure wi
Deinfluencing
Deinfluencing is the trend where influencers or social media users advise their followers against buying certain products or brands. This movement emphasizes authenticity, helping followers make more
Delulu
"Delulu" is a slang term derived from "delusional" and is often used humorously to describe someone who has unrealistic expectations or daydreams, especially about romantic or celebrity crushes. It’s
Demand Generation
Demand generation is a marketing approach focused on sparking initial interest in a company's offerings.
Demure
In social media context, "demure" describes how a brand or individual presents themselves online - modestly, professionally, and with restraint. Unlike aggressive marketing, this style focuses on buil
Digital Asset Management
Digital asset management (DAM) is the process of storing, organizing, and sharing digital files, such as images, videos, and documents, in one central location. DAM systems help brands manage large vo
Digital Detox
A digital detox is the act of taking a break from digital devices, such as smartphones, computers, or social media, to reduce stress and reconnect with offline life. This practice is beneficial for me
Digital Marketing
Digital marketing includes all online marketing activities to reach customers through channels like search engines, social media, email, and websites. It enables brands to connect with their audience
Direct Marketing
Direct marketing is a strategy focused on directly reaching out to potential customers through channels like email, direct mail, or SMS, aiming for an immediate response. It allows brands to target sp
Disappering Content
Disappearing content is social media content that is available only for a limited time, typically 24 hours, before it vanishes. This format, popularized by platforms like Snapchat and Instagram Storie
Discoverability
Discoverability is the ease with which users can find a brand, product, or content on social media or search engines. High discoverability means content appears prominently in search results or platfo
Display Advertising
Display advertising uses visual elements, such as images, videos, and graphics, to promote a product or service on websites, apps, and social media. These ads appear in various formats, including bann
DM - Direct message
A Direct Message (DM) serves as a private communication tool on various social media platforms, including Instagram, X ( Twitter), TikTok, LinkedIn, and Facebook. This feature enables users to exchang
Doomscrolling
Doomscrolling is the habit of continuously scrolling through negative or distressing news on social media or news sites, often leading to anxiety. This behavior became more prevalent during global cri
Double Tap
Double tap refers to the gesture of tapping twice on a post, typically on Instagram, to “like” it. This action is a quick, easy way for users to show appreciation or approval of content without leavin
Drip
Drip in style refers to a trendy, fashionable look or outfit, often showcasing high-end clothing, unique accessories, or a distinctive aesthetic. It’s commonly used in social media and pop culture to
Drip Campaign
A drip campaign is an automated marketing strategy where a series of pre-scheduled messages, often through email, are sent to leads or customers over time. Drip campaigns nurture relationships, guidin
DTC - Direct to Consumer
Direct to Consumer (DTC) is a business model where brands sell products directly to customers through their own websites, bypassing third-party retailers. This model allows brands to have complete con
Duet
A "duet" on TikTok is a feature that lets users create split-screen videos using an existing video. It's commonly used for collaborative performances, like singing or dancing together, and has become
Dynamic Content
Dynamic content refers to web or email content that changes automatically based on user data, behavior, or preferences. It allows marketers to deliver personalized experiences to users, enhancing rele
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Ebook
An ebook is a digital book that can be read on electronic devices, typically used as a resource to provide in-depth information on a specific topic. Many brands offer ebooks as a lead generation tool,
Elevator Pitch
An elevator pitch is a short, persuasive speech that summarizes a person, product, or business in about 30 seconds. The goal is to quickly and effectively communicate key points, capturing interest wi
Employee Advocacy
Employee advocacy is the promotion of a brand by its employees on their personal social media channels. It is a powerful way for brands to expand their reach, as employees sharing content can lend aut
Endorsement
An endorsement is a form of recommendation on LinkedIn. It allows others to quickly see the areas where you are recognized for your expertise by colleagues or clients.
Engagement
Engagement refers to the interactions users have with social media content, including likes, comments, shares, and clicks. Engagement measures how actively an audience interacts with content, indicati
Engagement Rate
Engagement rate is a metric that shows the level of interaction an audience has with content relative to the total number of followers or impressions. It is calculated by dividing total interactions b
Ephemeral Content
Ephemeral content is social media content that disappears after a short time, typically within 24 hours, such as Instagram and Snapchat Stories. This content type encourages quick engagement and is id
Evergreen Content
Evergreen content is content that remains relevant and valuable over an extended period, requiring minimal updates. This type of content is often informational or educational, providing long-term valu
Evergreen Marketing
Evergreen marketing is a strategy that focuses on promoting long-lasting, continually relevant content and messages. This approach often involves using evergreen content to attract new audiences and m
Exit Intent
Exit intent is a marketing technique that detects when a user is about to leave a website and triggers a last-minute offer or message to retain them. Commonly used for lead generation, exit intent pop
Experiential Markering
Experiential marketing is a strategy focused on creating memorable experiences that engage customers with a brand. It often involves events, interactive installations, or live activations that encoura
Explore Page
The explore page is a feature on platforms like Instagram that curates popular and trending content based on a user’s interests and past interactions. It’s designed to help users discover new content
External Link
An external link is a hyperlink that points to a webpage on a different website. External links are often used to provide additional information, references, or resources and are beneficial for SEO by