Imagine if you knew exactly what types of content people loved to share on social media. This would give you an insider’s perspective on exactly how people use social networking sites, and what types of content YOU should share for maximum impact.

Fortunately, this infographic by web design agency, Go-Gulf, reveals exactly what types of content get shared the most and who is doing all the sharing!

So without further ado, here are the answers to the burning question: What do people love to share on social media!

What are the most popular types of content people like to share on social media?

According to the research, the top 5 types of content people like to share are:

1. Pictures (I’m not surprised…are you??)
2. Opinions
3. Status updates that let people know what they’re up to
4. Links to articles
5. Recommendations for stuff they like: books, movies, restaurants, etc.

Here’s the full list of the top 11 things people like to share:

What are the most popular activities on social networking sites?

If you had to guess what people are most likely to do on Facebook, Twitter and Google+, what would it be? Posting images? Playing games? Sharing links?

Here’s what the research shows are the most popular social media activities:

Facebook:

1. Uploading and sharing photos
2. Posting comments about day-to-day activities
3. Sharing links to articles
4. Sharing videos created by others

Twitter:

1. Commenting on daily activities
2. Uploading and sharing photos
3. Sharing links to blogs
4. Sharing links to articles
5. Sharing videos created by others

Google+:

1. Uploading and sharing photos
2. Sharing links to blogs
3. Sharing links to articles
4. Posting comments about daily activities
5. Watching videos clips created by others

Why do people share on social media?

Do people share content on social networks simply to transmit information? Or are there deeper reasons? Let’s find out:

• 84% share to show support for a cause they believe in
• 78% share to stay connected with people they would otherwise not stay in touch with
• 73% share to connect with others who share their interests
• 69% share because it helps them feel more connected in the world
• 68% share to let people know who there are
• 49% of users share information in order to change opinions or encourage action

What types of videos do people like to share?

As I’m sure you’ve noticed, videos on social media are more popular than ever. In fact, in November, Mark Zuckerberg even predicted that in 5 years, most of Facebook would be videos!

So, what types of videos do Facebook’s global users like to share?

• US users like to share news clips
• UK users share travel, education and news clips
• Indian users like to share movie trailers
• Indonesian users are most likely to share videos related to style and fashion

Which emotions are most likely to spur sharing?

We know that different types of content trigger different emotions. We also know that viral content is most likely to evoke positive feelings: joy, interest, anticipation, trust, etc. This infographic confirms what we already knew. The most shared articles tend to trigger feelings of:

• Awe (25%)
• Laughter (17%)
• Amusement (15%)
• Joy (14%)

Not surprisingly, content that triggers negative emotions are least likely to get shared:

• Anger (6%)
• Empathy (6%)
• Surprise (2%)
• Sadness (1%)

Takeaway: If you want people to share your content, focus on creating positive and uplifting stories and articles. Life is serious enough; your followers want you to provide some much-needed positivity!

What’s the most popular type of content in the US?

What types of posts and articles are Americans most likely to share? According to the infographic, US users are most likely to get shared content that is:

• Humorous (85.7%)
• Sporty (61%)
• Political (48.8%)

Which life events are most likely to get shared on Facebook?

There’s no doubt that people LOVE to share exciting life events with their Facebook friends. But which events are users most likely to share?

• A new relationship, engagement or marriage
• Travelling
• Moving
• Ending a relationship
• Meeting a new friend
• A birth or adoption
• Getting a new pet
• Losing a loved one
• Getting a piercing (!)
• Quitting a bad habit

Who shares most on social media?

You may already have some guesses, but this infographic may just surprise you. The users who are most likely to share on social media are…….

MEN!

This holds true for each of the three major social networks. Men dominate by posting the lion’s share on:

Facebook: 57%

Twitter: 61%

Google+: 63%

In terms of age, 25-34 year olds share more than any other group. The next most active age group is 16-24 year olds.

This infographic does a great job of summarizing what people love to share on social media, as well as WHO is doing all the sharing! Use these insights to inform and inspire your own social media content strategy!

Were you surprised by any of the findings above? Share below!