By now, just about everybody knows how social media is used by businesses for advertising, but the primary function of social networks like Twitter and Facebook is to give Internet users from all over the world a forum to interact with each other. The only problem with that is that many people don't know how to post content on these networks that people genuinely want to read.
My general rule is to follow the 80/20 rule. 80% of your social media posts should involve curating others' content - and 20% should be your own promotional posts. In order to get people to pay attention to social media content, one must first find compelling content to post. With that being said, here are ten great places to find interesting social media content.
1. Google Alerts
A Google Alert is an email update of some of the latest relevant Google search results. All you have to do is enter a key word or phrase about something you find interesting, and Google will perform periodic searches and send you results that can make for some compelling social media posts.
2. Google Reader
Google Reader is similar to Google Alerts, except while Google Alerts update based on search results, Google Reader keeps users updated on the sites and blogs they visit regularly.
3. Facebook Friends
No matter who you are, you probably have a few Facebook friends who regularly post links to memes, news articles and other interesting attention-grabbers. Try scrolling through your wall and find some fun things to re-post.
4. Trending Twitter Topics
Twitter itself can be a good place to find interesting social media content, but if you really want to find something worth re-posting, take a look at some of Twitter's trending topics. At any given time, there's bound to be something fascinating there.
5. Topsy
Topsy is a search engine that provides updates on Twitter and Google Plus in real time. Most searches yield posts that aren't an hour old, so it's a great way to find recent information.
6. Formspring
Formspring is a network in which the community members ask each other different questions on a variety of different topics. It's probably not ideal for promoting a business, but it can be a great way to get to know people and find ideas for compelling social media posts.
7. News Sites
Sometimes, it's best just to go to the source when you want an interesting news story to post to social media. Yahoo News, CNN and the Huffington Post are just a few of many sites that can provide good social media fodder.
8. Pinterest
Pinterest is more of a visual social media network, but that is also a big part of its charm. It's easy to see things that would be worth sharing either on another Pinterest account or even on Facebook or Twitter.
9. Memes and Funny Photos
Sometimes you need something that everyone can relate to. At those times, you want to check out some of the following sites:
- I Can Has Cheezburger - LOLCats, making the world funny for over a decade.
- Know Your Meme - Not sure what the latest memes are? Check here first.
- Some E Cards - Fun and sarcastic e-cards based on current events.
10. Trendspottr
Trendspottr is a website that shows users conversations around particular keywords, which often leads them to topics that are currently trending on Twitter. It's a great way to find up-to-date information that is sure to generate lots of discussion.