Ep 3. Alexis Ohanian: How to Make a Splash in Social Media

Alexis Ohanian, co-founder of Reddit, takes to the stage in episode 3 of TED Talks: Cyber Awe season 1 to share his expertise on making a splash in social media. Drawing from his own experiences, Ohanian provides insight on the strategies that led Reddit to become one of the largest and most influential online communities in the world.

With a light-hearted and engaging style, Ohanian begins by discussing the importance of knowing your audience. By understanding the needs and interests of your target audience, you can create content that resonates with them and encourages them to engage with your brand. Ohanian provides several examples of how Reddit has successfully tapped into the interests of its user base, citing popular subreddits like /r/science and /r/gifs as examples.

One of the key takeaways from Ohanian's talk is the importance of authenticity. In a world where social media can often feel superficial and staged, Ohanian stresses the need for brands to be genuine and transparent with their audiences. By showing the human side of your brand and engaging with your audience in a meaningful way, you can build a loyal following that will support your brand in the long run. Ohanian provides several examples of how companies have successfully done this, such as Dove's Real Beauty campaign and Wendy's Twitter presence.

In addition to authenticity, Ohanian emphasizes the need for brands to take risks and be bold in their social media strategies. By thinking outside the box and pushing boundaries, you can capture the attention of your audience and create a buzz around your brand. Ohanian shares several examples of how companies have successfully taken risks to stand out, such as Old Spice's "Man Your Man Could Smell Like" campaign and Dollar Shave Club's viral video.

Throughout his talk, Ohanian emphasizes the power of community and the importance of fostering a sense of belonging among your audience. By creating a space where people can come together around shared interests and experiences, you can build a passionate and engaged following that will support your brand over time. Ohanian shares several examples of how Reddit has successfully created a sense of community among its users, such as their annual Secret Santa gift exchange and their Ask Me Anything (AMA) series.

Overall, Alexis Ohanian's talk on making a splash in social media provides valuable insights and practical advice for brands looking to build a presence on social platforms. By understanding your audience, being authentic and taking risks, and fostering a sense of community, you can create a social media strategy that drives engagement and builds a loyal following.