According to digital marketing firm Optify in an infographic released on August 6, 2013, there are nine distinct types of Facebook users. These categories describe various behaviors and engagement patterns seen on the platform.
Understanding Facebook User Types (According to Optify, 2013)
Based on an analysis from 2013 by Optify, Facebook users could be broadly categorized into the following groups:
- The Stalker: This user primarily views profiles and content without actively posting or interacting.
- Baby Boomer: Often refers to users from that generation who may use the platform differently than younger demographics, possibly for reconnecting or sharing specific types of content.
- Newbie: Someone relatively new to the platform, still learning its features and norms.
- Over-Sharer: A user who frequently posts excessive details about their daily life, thoughts, and activities.
- Brand Promoter: Uses their personal profile, or potentially a page, heavily to promote brands, products, or services.
- Fearful User: Someone who is cautious about privacy and security on the platform, limiting their activity or information shared.
- Curator: Focuses on sharing interesting content from around the web, acting as a filter or aggregator of information for their network.
- Gamer: Primarily uses Facebook to play games integrated into the platform or interact with gaming communities.
- Non-User: This category, interestingly included in a list of user types, refers to individuals who have an account but rarely, if ever, log in or engage.
These classifications offer a snapshot of the diverse ways people engaged with Facebook at the time of the Optify analysis.
