Bluesky Social is an emerging social media platform.
Conceived as a decentralised alternative to traditional social networks (more on that later), it aims to give users more control over their data and online presence. It also offers ways of being part of niche communities – you can tailor your experience to focus on content and conversations that matter to you, without feeling like you are being controlled by nasty algorithm.
Given so much criticism of X recently, you can see why many individuals and brands may want an alternative. But is it for you?
Why Bluesky Social is an exciting new platform
Bluesky (or should we always say Bluesky Social? No idea!) stands out because of the perception that it challenges the status quo of social media. But does it hold true?
The platform is built on what’s called the AT Protocol, a decentralised network that allows users to own their data and control their online identities. This means fewer worries about data privacy and a greater emphasis on user autonomy. The platform also promises a fresh, more open approach to content moderation, where users can choose their own algorithms and filters, creating a tailored social media experience.
It's becoming popular too... the recent ban of X in Brazil has led to a significant surge in users for Bluesky, adding 2.4 million in just four days.
How Bluesky differs from X (formerly Twitter)
While Bluesky and X might seem similar at first glance, they are different in their approach to social networking. X operates as a centralised platform where decisions about content, user accounts, and data are made by a single entity. Bluesky, on the other hand, is decentralised, meaning no single organisation has control over the entire network. This gives users the freedom to move between different communities, use different algorithms, and have more control over what they see and share.
Let’s be honest though, it looks very similar to X… here’s how our account looked when we first registered:
Ps. it is founded by Jack Dorsey, formally of Twitter, so no huge surprise there.
What are the main features of Bluesky?
Decentralised network: built on the AT Protocol, giving users control over their data and identity
Custom algorithms: users can choose or create their own algorithms to tailor their content feed
Open communities: join or create communities with specific moderation policies
Enhanced privacy: greater user control over personal data and privacy settings
Should you register on Bluesky?
For businesses looking to reach the right people or individuals looking to develop a ‘personal brand’, you have the opportunity to be early adopters of a platform that promises to change the social media landscape (mmm… I know that will be met with a lot of skepticism!). Registering now, however, allows businesses to:
Secure brand presence: establish your brand early on and grow with the platform
Reach new audiences: engage with a forward-thinking audience that values privacy and innovation
Customise your approach: Utilise Bluesky's decentralised nature to tailor your marketing strategies, using different algorithms to reach specific customer segments.
The main benefit, from what we know so far, is that Bluesky allows you to build and join loyal, niche communities. For many, it might be a chance to filter out the negativity and the barrage of content that is deemed appropriate for you by someone else.
Should you use Threads or Bluesky?
Threads: If you're already integrated into the Meta ecosystem (Facebook, Instagram), Threads offers a seamless experience. It’s ideal for those who want quick, Instagram-connected conversations with a focus on text-based content
Bluesky: If you prioritise privacy, control over your data, and the ability to customise your social media experience, Bluesky is the better option. Its decentralised nature allows for more autonomy, niche community building, and a unique approach to content algorithms
With many organisations now taking corporate responsibility so seriously, perhaps the time will come where our choice of channels is guided by our values and principles too - it seems Bluesky is tapping into this need.
Is Bluesky worth the effort?
If you are worried about the time it takes to embark on yet another social media platform, at the moment it’s easy enough to re-purpose your X content – so it’s an efficient way to trial a platform without having to make time-intensive, bespoke content the way TikTok demands.
For us here at Hack Yourself, we want to deepen our knowledge of what great leaders are doing, understand how the world of work is changing, and look for ways to support people in their careers - so we figure this could be a good place to lean into the relevant communities that can give us insight in these areas.
So, we're in. We have no followers yet, but we are in nonetheless.
Drop us a follow if you take the leap at @hackyourself.bsky.social
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