Before we continue any further, I need to first make a disclaimer: I admit that I’ve somehow joined the social networking internet craze, starting from Xanga, leading to MySpace, then to my blog, and now I’m pretty interested in Facebook.
In fact, this is precisely what has got me wondering about the MySpace generation. Yes, the majority of them are still using MySpace, but I’m not worried about them, I’m most interested in those early adopters who are moving drifting away into something else.
Now, what is happening exactly? I’m not too sure, but first lets take a look at how MySpace is evolving (from 2005 through 2006).
Below is a table depicting the trend in users by age group (numbers are percent of users):
| Aug 2005 | Aug 2006 | Growth | |
| Audience, 000 | 21,819 | 55,778 | YTY |
| Age: 12-17 | 24.7 | 11.9 | -12.8 |
| Age: 18-24 | 19.6 | 18.1 | -1.4 |
| Age: 25-34 |
10.4 | 16.7 | 6.2 |
| Age: 35-54 | 32.4 | 40.6 | 8.2 |
| Age: 55+ | 7.1 | 11.0 | 3.9 |
*Source: comScore
Interestingly, the so-called “MySpace Generation” group is not the age group adding the most users (instead the number of users if actually declining). MySpace is actually adding more users who are around my parents’ age.
From the ages 12-24, MySpace is experiencing a 14% decline in users. What’s this due to? Where are they going? Here’s what I think…
- Some users are just dropping off. They just completely lost interest or got too busy for MySpace. It’s not for everyone, so this is expected.
- Facebook came along. Facebook has always been around since MySpace, but perhaps these users want a more sophisticated social networking site. Facebook provides an opportunity to network with fellow classmates and in the future fellow co-workers.
- The rise of LinkedIn. This really takes Facebook to the professional level because its mainly used by business professionals to stay connected with people they’ve worked with or friends/family. Users can post resumes, job experiences, post job openings, and in some cases apply for job positions. My buddy Mario, as the Community Evangelist, started a LinkedIn blog, check it out.
- The Blogosphere. There might be a select few who have transitioned to blogs, although, its not one of the more popular choices.
- There’s something I’m missing. As always, some users are on to the next BIG thing. But what is that? Could it be video?
I’m very curious to see where the MySpace generation will end up…including where I’ll end up.
Some interesting stories on social media: