Social media as the most important investment?

A full 84 % of young people are convinced: social media will continue to grow in importance over the next 10 years. This is not merely growth: it is a crystal-clear sign for every brand to get going professionally now.

1. The ultimate growth tool: social media tops the ranking

The study reveals an impressive hierarchy of future topics. Together with laptops and PCs (also 84 %), social media is right at the very top of the ‘winning topics’ of the next decade. Even celebrated technologies such as VR headsets (61 %) cannot keep up.

This proves that, for young people, social media is the essential tool for connection, information and lifestyle. For 62 % of respondents, life today is already a natural hybrid of the digital and analogue worlds. In their perception, a separation no longer exists at all.

2. The ‘Flight to Quality’: why professionalism wins now

An exciting finding of the study is young people’s desire for more substance. The fact that currently only 15 % trust information on social media unconditionally is not an obstacle, but your greatest opportunity.

• The opportunity: In a sea of fast content, profiles that stand out through professionalism, facts and high-quality storytelling gain massively in value. Genuine, authentic content instead of AI slop.
• Regulation: 57 % are calling for better regulation of the platforms. A clear signal that young people want a safer, higher-quality digital space.

3. Power duo: social media & AI as a new synergy

Will AI replace social media? Quite the opposite: it makes it better. The facts:

• AI for facts: 71 % use AI bots as a quick source of knowledge.
• Social media for emotions: The platforms remain the unrivalled place for inspiration, lifestyle and community.
• Shopping magnet: As 77 % of young people shop online regularly, social media remains the crucial touchpoint for sparking desires that can then be conveniently fulfilled digitally.

4. “High-Value Content”: The future is mindful

We know that young people are very reflective in how they use their time. 58 % view digitalisation as predominantly positive because it makes life smarter and cooler. Nevertheless, many are aware of their intensive use (05:14 hours of screen time per day).

That is precisely why we need content that adds value. Instead of keeping users in empty loops, we need content that enriches, inspires and offers genuine solutions. This not only generates attention, but also creates a deep, positive bond with the brand.

Conclusion: The future will be social!

Today’s young people are tomorrow’s target group with purchasing power. If 84 % say that social media is becoming more important, the direction is clear. Those who invest in professional strategies now will secure pole position in the minds of their target group!