*In collaboration with Click Consult
It’s no secret that social media has completely transformed how we communicate, share ideas, and stay connected with the world around us. But one of the biggest shifts we’re now seeing is how younger generations are using social platforms, particularly TikTok as their go-to source for news.
Yes, gone are the days of sitting down to watch the 6 o’clock news or flipping through the morning paper. For Gen Z and younger Millennials, news now comes in the form of bite-sized videos, trending hashtags, and viral commentary. This shift brings a sense of immediacy and personal connection.
But it also raises important questions around accuracy, trust, and how we should be exploring the future of digital news, something Click Consult delved deeper into, examining the impact of algorithms and user-generated content on how we consume and trust information.
The Rise of TikTok as a News Source
Let’s start with TikTok. Originally known for dance trends and lip-syncs, it’s now one of the fastest-growing platforms for news consumption. Especially among people under 30. Thanks to its fast-paced, visual format and clever algorithm, TikTok quickly serves up content based on your interests, whether that’s politics, climate change, or the latest celebrity drama. I use it to find out about the latest books that are out and what to read next!
Instead of turning to traditional outlets like the BBC or Sky News, younger users are hearing about world events from creators who break down headlines into relatable, engaging clips. These “citizen journalists” are often ordinary people offering commentary or sharing on-the-ground footage. Something mainstream media can’t always do in real time.
Personalised, But Not Always Verified
There’s a real appeal to this kind of content. It feels more human, less filtered, and often cuts through the formal tone of traditional reporting. But with that comes a risk: many of these videos aren’t vetted for accuracy. News becomes a blend of fact, opinion, and emotion. Often without clear sources or accountability. This is the danger.
Social media platforms are powered by algorithms designed to keep us engaged, not necessarily informed. That means the news we see is heavily influenced by what we’ve previously liked or watched, which can create “echo chambers” where we’re only shown content that aligns with our views.
The Power of Citizen Journalism
That said, it’s not all doom and gloom. Social media has empowered everyday people to shine a light on stories that might otherwise go unnoticed. From protests to environmental disasters, footage captured on a smartphone can spread globally within minutes, giving voice to communities and causes that traditional outlets might overlook.
This grassroots style of reporting can be incredibly powerful. Offering raw, real-time perspectives that you won’t always find on the evening news. And let’s not forget the role it’s played in movements like Black Lives Matter, where social platforms helped organise, inform, and amplify voices worldwide.
Traditional Media Playing Catch-Up
Faced with these changes, many traditional news organisations are now adapting their strategies. You’ll see major outlets creating TikToks, Instagram Reels, and YouTube Shorts to try and reach younger audiences. Some are hiring social media editors specifically to repackage content for these platforms, using humour, visuals, and storytelling to compete in the fast-paced world of digital news.
But the question remains: can traditional journalism maintain its standards and trustworthiness while playing by the rules of social media?
What This Means for the Future
There’s no doubt that how we consume news is continuing to evolve. Social media offers accessibility, diversity, and a chance for people to engage with stories on their own terms. But it also demands more from us as readers and viewers. It’s never been more important to question what we’re seeing, check sources, and seek out multiple perspectives.
In a world where anyone can be a reporter, we need to balance the excitement of instant news with critical thinking. Is this real?
So next time you scroll past a viral headline on TikTok or Instagram, ask yourself: “Who’s telling this story, and how do they know it’s true?” It might just make all the difference.