Keeping up with social media sometimes feels like learning a new language — but if you are in the social media game, fluency is non-negotiable. Whether you are new on the scene or a seasoned professional, your vernaculars (in this case, the everyday language of social media) need to be on point.

Because, in this day and age? The social media landscape is packed with jargon that shapes how we create, connect and measure success online. That's why understanding these terms isn't about sounding savvy; it's about working smarter.

So, whether you're an influencer building an audience or a social media manager looking for insights, these six must-know social media vernaculars will help you navigate social media platforms with clarity and confidence:

  • Engagement Rate: Your engagement rate refers to the percentage of users who interact with your content through likes, comments, shares, or clicks. 

         Why it matters: it reflects how well your content connects with your audience.

  • Impressions: The total number of times your content is displayed, regardless of engagement.

         Why it matters: impressions reveal your content's visibility.

  • Reach: The total number of unique users who have seen your content. 

         Why it matters: Reach helps you measure how far your message is spreading.

  • Conversion Rate: The percentage of users who take a desired action (like signing up, purchasing, or downloading) after engaging with your content.

         Why it matters: This ties social content directly to business goals. 

  • Bounce Rate: The percentage of users who click a link to your website but leave without interacting further.

         Why it matters: High bounce rates can signal a mismatch between your content and user expectations.

  • Content Pillars: Key topics that define your content strategy.

         Why it matters: Ensures consistent and goal-driven posting.

 

These six terms are just the starting point, but they lay the foundation for a smarter, more strategic approach to social media. As social media continues to shift and grow, staying up-to-date on its ever-evolving terminology will keep you one step ahead. 

 

Are there any important social media vernaculars you would add? Let us know in the comments section below.

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If you are looking for more information around social media, read How To Choose the Right Social Media Platform For Your Audience [Infographic].

*Image courtesy of Canva 

** Information sourced from The University of Melbourne and Indeed