top of page

Social Media Is Dead? Here is the top five reasons why.


graveyard for social media

For years, social media promised connection. It was the digital town square, a place where brands and people could engage in real-time conversations. But in 2025, the landscape is shifting—and social media is becoming less social.

This shift matters to digital marketing professionals in Perth and across Australia, because the way we approach content, community, and advertising must evolve alongside it.

1. The Rise of Algorithm-First Platforms

Social platforms are no longer designed around friends and followers—they’re designed around algorithms. TikTok popularized the “For You” feed, and now Meta, X, and LinkedIn are all leaning into recommendation-driven models.

Instead of conversations between people, users are served content from strangers that algorithms believe will keep them engaged. This means reach and visibility depend less on organic connection and more on how well your content fits algorithmic priorities.

2. Decline of Organic Engagement

Ask any Perth-based business: organic reach isn’t what it used to be. In 2025, comments, shares, and conversations are declining, replaced by passive consumption—likes, views, and quick reactions.

For marketers, this means traditional community-building strategies on social platforms are losing traction. The focus is shifting toward storytelling, entertainment, and short-form video designed for quick attention rather than deep engagement.

3. Social Media as Media, Not Social

It’s time we rethink the label “social media.” Increasingly, these platforms are functioning like digital broadcasters. They are media channels first, and social networks second.

That’s why leading brands in Perth are moving away from seeing platforms purely as community hubs and instead treating them as distribution engines for paid campaigns and creative content.

4. The Rise of Private Spaces

While public feeds feel less social, private spaces are booming. WhatsApp groups, Slack communities, and niche forums are where genuine conversations still thrive. For marketers, this means thinking beyond traditional social platforms and investing in owned communities where engagement is more authentic.

5. What This Means for Digital Marketers in Perth

  • Invest in Paid Media: Organic reach alone won’t cut it. Paid campaigns are essential.

  • Prioritise Creativity: Algorithms reward originality, relevance, and entertainment value.

  • Build Beyond Platforms: Consider owned channels like email, websites, and private groups to nurture true connections.

  • Stay Local: Perth audiences value local relevance—highlight community stories, WA culture, and regional authenticity.

Final Thought

Social media in 2025 is less about being social and more about being seen. For Perth’s digital marketing professionals, the challenge is to adapt strategies that recognise this shift—balancing algorithm-friendly content with authentic, human connection where it still exists.

.#ECUMKT5325 #TheDigitalMarketingCrew #socialmedia #digitalmarketing (and any other hashtag deemed suitable) and the following disclaimer: (Disclaimer: This content is for the sole purpose of teaching and learning at Edith Cowan University and has not been endorsed or otherwise approved by the organisation it promotes.)



Comments


 

This website is managed by: Dr Violetta Wilk, and MKT5325 Applied Digital Marketing and MKT2805 Social Media Marketing Students

©2023 Edith Cowan University

bottom of page