Instagram vs Facebook vs TikTok: Where Should You Show Up?
One of the most common questions I get from clients is: “Do I really need to be on all the platforms?”
Short answer? No.
Long answer? You should be where your audience is and where you can show up consistently without burning out.
Every platform has its strengths, and not every one will make sense for your business. So let’s break it down:
📸 Instagram: The Visual Vibe Builder
Best for: Lifestyle brands, service-based businesses, creative entrepreneurs
Why it works:
Instagram is all about visuals and storytelling. If your business has a strong aesthetic, customer transformations, or behind-the-scenes value, this is your place to shine.
Use it for:
Reels (short-form video is still queen)
Stories (quick updates, polls, BTS)
Carousels (tips, educational content)
Highlighting your brand vibe + client experience
Pro Tip: Instagram is where people shop with their eyes and follow brands they trust. So don’t just post to promote, post to connect.
👥 Facebook: The Local Connector
Best for: Brick-and-mortar businesses, community-focused brands, B2C services
Why it works:
Facebook is still huge for local visibility and older demographics (think 35+). It’s great for building trust, getting reviews, and driving traffic to your site or services.
Use it for:
Local updates, events, promos
Sharing blogs or newsletters
Facebook Groups (hello, community!)
Google Business connections + SEO
Pro Tip: If your audience is more local or family-oriented, Facebook is still very worth showing up on, even if it’s not your “main” platform.
🎵 TikTok: The Reach Machine
Best for: Bold brands, educators, visual storytellers, product-based businesses
Why it works:
TikTok gives you the biggest organic reach potential, if you're willing to play the game. Authenticity, quick value, and entertainment win here.
Use it for:
How-to videos + quick tips
Storytime-style content
Product demos or transformations
Trendy, relatable posts with a business twist
Pro Tip: TikTok isn’t just for dancing teens anymore, but it does require consistency and a willingness to be a little scrappy and real.
So... Where Should You Be?
Ask yourself:
Where is my audience hanging out?
What type of content is easiest for me to create?
Where am I seeing the most engagement (even if it’s small)?
Can I commit to posting consistently there?
If you’re just starting out, pick one platform and get really comfortable there. You don’t need to be everywhere, you just need to be somewhere with purpose.
And if you’re still feeling unsure? That’s where I come in.
At Mae Media, we build strategies that match your goals, your time, and your audience, so you can stop guessing and start growing.