Eliza McElhaney

Social Search Is the New Google

If you’ve ever searched TikTok for a restaurant instead of pulling up Google Maps... you’re not alone. In fact, you're now part of the 40% of people who use social media as their search engine.

The way people discover content and businesses is changing. And your captions, bios, and even video transcripts? They matter more than ever.

What Is Social SEO?

Social SEO is how your content gets found organically on platforms like Instagram, TikTok, and LinkedIn. People are searching full phrases like:

  • “Best brunch in Corpus Christi”

  • “Small biz marketing tips”

  • “How to write a caption that converts”

If you’re not including these keywords in your content? You’re invisible.

What To Do:

  • Use clear, natural language in your captions.

  • Add keywords to your Reels/TikTok descriptions.

  • Make sure your bio includes what you actually do.

  • Add text overlays to videos that match what someone might search.

Don’t keyword-stuff. Just think like your audience. What are they typing in that little search bar? Start there.