I am working on a marketing assignment and need a comprehensive analysis of how social media influences consumer behavior. Please focus on how platforms like Instagram and TikTok have changed the way consumers interact with brands and make purchasing decisions. I am particularly interested in understanding the role of influencers, targeted advertising, and user-generated content in shaping consumer preferences. The analysis should be around 800-1000 words and include references to at least three scholarly articles or studies to support the arguments. Additionally, please suggest strategies marketers could use to effectively leverage social media to engage with their target audience.
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