Online teens' use of social networking sites appears to have leveled out, but more are turning to Twitter, according to [pdf] results from a survey conducted by the Pew Research Center's Internet & American Life Project. In 2012, 81% of online teens (aged 12-17) surveyed reported using a social networking sites, relatively flat from 80% a year earlier. But, the proportion of teens who reported using Twitter jumped from 16% to 24% in that time span, growing to outpace adoption by adults (16% in 2012). The researchers note that not all teens think of Twitter as a social networking site, though: there is a small subset of respondents who say they do not use social networking sites, but do use Twitter. Read more »

The top benefits of social media marketing are increased exposure (89%) and increased traffic (75%), finds Social Media Examiner in its annual "Social Media Marketing Industry Report" [download page], which surveyed more than 3,000 marketers on their social media activities. A majority also report benefits such as developing loyal fans (65%), lead generation (61%), and improved search rankings (58%), but only 43% say their efforts have boosted sales. Nevertheless, study results indicate that for those willing to take the time, sales will follow. Read more »