Are Ads Taking Over Social Media?

By Tony Rodriguez, Seasonal Public Relations Intern | Digital4Good

Can you imagine going through an entire day without using social media? Whether it’s scrolling through Instagram for outfit ideas, checking out TikTok for the latest trends, or catching up with friends on Facebook, these apps provide us with entertainment, news, and fun distractions. They’re not just online applications, but communities where we share our interests, connect with friends, and discover new opportunities.

As much as we love the convenience of social media, it’s nearly impossible to scroll for five minutes without seeing an ad or product endorsement. Whether it’s a sponsored reel, a featured product in an influencer’s video, or a random pop-up that interrupts your scrolling, advertising has become a large part of social media.

Ads keep social media free to use, but the constant push to spend money can take away from the fun of casual scrolling. Is it worth putting up with all the ads just to keep social media free? 

How Ads Impact the User Experience

The reason behind the proliferation of ads is simple: they help generate revenue for the platforms that host them. Some social media companies like TikTok will get creative, leveraging influencer partnerships, augmented reality (AR) filters, and slick video campaigns to help ads blend into your feed. But how does this all affect social media users?

Downsides of Advertising

74% of users think social media has too many ads. An ineffective ad can even discourage users from purchasing a product when they see it in stores, as they may associate the brand with the negative ad experience. 

• We Interrupt This Program: Depending on the placement and frequency, some ads can disrupt users’ enjoyment of an activity, such as an ad placed in the middle of a video or an unexpected pop-up. 
• Too Personal: Have you ever looked up a product online, then seen an ad for it on social media the next day? Some websites track your activity across different sites or devices to customize ads, which can make a personalized ad feel like an invasion of privacy.
• All About the Money: When platforms prioritize profit over meaningful engagement, this often shows up in the form of constant ads or paywalls. People who use these platforms to connect with others and share their interests may feel driven away. 

Are There Good Ads?

Thoughtful, well-designed ads can be entertaining and even useful to consumers. Eye-catching visuals, funny stories, or clever ideas can grab users’ attention in a positive way. 

• Fun and Practical: Creative campaigns, like AR filters or catchy videos, can actually enhance the user experience. If an ad gives you a good laugh or introduces you to something cool, it’s a win.
• Keeping Things Free: Let’s be real: no one wants to pay for social media. Ads make it possible for platforms to stay free for most users, which is a solid trade-off for many.

What’s Next for Social Media Ads?

In today’s digital era, a strong social media game is crucial. Instagram, LinkedIn, Facebook, YouTube, and TikTok all bring something unique to the table when it comes to reaching people, building your brand, and boosting sales. 

The key to making ads work without disrupting user experience is balance.

Users want more control over their online experiences. Skippable ads, like the ones you see on YouTube or Spotify, let users choose whether to watch the whole ad or skip it after a few seconds. This not only saves time for the audience but also pushes advertisers to make ads that are creative and grab attention right away.

Non-intrusive ad formats, like banners or sponsored posts, fit seamlessly into the platform’s design without feeling like a distraction. They’re made to look like part of the content so they don’t interrupt the user experience. 

Final Thoughts

Social media ads are here to stay, and while they can be distracting, they allow us to use these platforms for free. However, some ads can drive users away, which means platforms must invest in smarter algorithms and creative ad formats that blend seamlessly into the user experience. By prioritizing relevance, personalization, and design, ads can transition from being seen as intrusive to becoming engaging content that users genuinely enjoy. When ads complement the platform’s flow, they have the potential to enhance, rather than detract from, the time users spend online.

Looking to step up your business or organization’s social media game? Check out Digital4Good’s on-demand Social Media Engagement Course!