Social media changes fast, and what worked a few years ago probably won’t cut it today. Here’s what brands and businesses need to know to stay ahead.
Trends Matter
There’s no easy way to say this: trends matter. Whether you like it or not, brands that keep up with trends usually find more success. Trends influence platform updates, algorithm shifts, and even consumer behavior.
Trend #1: AI-Generated Content
No matter how you feel about AI, it’s being used by individuals, brands, and businesses alike. According to Adobe’s State of Marketing report, over half of brands are integrating AI into their content creation processes, with estimates hovering around 50–60%.
Tools like Google Bard, Microsoft Bing Chat, ChatGPT, and Jasper Chat are just a few examples of powerful AI tools that can support content creators and marketers in their day-to-day work. Canva’s Magic tools also help with visual and written content.
There’s no shortage of AI tools out there, and it’s up to you to decide how much or how little to implement them in your workflow.
Trend #2: User-Generated Content
User-generated content, or UGC, isn’t new, but it’s become even more effective in recent years. For many brands, UGC has overtaken traditional advertising because of how authentic it feels to consumers.
UGC often comes across as more real, like learning something from a friend rather than being sold to by a polished ad or paid actor. It’s also cost-effective, as brands can often partner with creators for a lower cost than producing ads through large agencies.
If you haven’t already, consider incorporating UGC into your next campaign.
Trend #3: Short-Form Video and Cross-Posting
By now, we all know that short-form video is everywhere. From TikTok to Instagram Reels to YouTube Shorts, people love quick, bite-sized content.
Shorter videos are a great way to break through the noise and grab attention, but just posting videos on one platform isn’t enough. That’s where cross-posting comes in.
Cross-posting means sharing your content across multiple platforms while tailoring it to fit each one. A video that performs well on TikTok might not work the same way on Reels.
Adjusting content to suit each audience and format can make a major difference in engagement.
Trend #4: Community Building
More than ever, social media users are craving connection. Younger generations, who’ve spent most of their lives online, want to feel like they’re part of something.
Community building helps meet that need and makes people feel more than just like another sale.
Brands that reply to comments, engage in DMs, and work with micro-influencers tend to stand out. Even commenting on other people’s videos or using humor (when appropriate) can set your brand apart. DMs can go beyond customer service—they can be a place to take in feedback, build relationships, and find new opportunities.
Trend #5: Social Search
Googling something isn’t always the first move anymore. Many users now treat platforms like TikTok, Instagram, and Pinterest as search engines.
Looking for travel recommendations? You’ll probably find a TikTok about it. Wondering what skincare products are best for dry skin? Instagram might have the answers. Searching for outfit ideas? Pinterest is your go-to.
This shift means brands should start thinking about SEO on social media. That includes writing relevant captions, using thoughtful hashtags, making sure your profile clearly explains what you offer, and keeping up with platform trends to boost visibility.
Final Thoughts
Staying up to date with trends can feel overwhelming, but it’s key to growing online. You don’t have to tackle everything on your own.
Rising High Marketing offers services that cover everything from trend spotting and strategy to content creation and SEO. As the landscape continues to shift, we’re here to help your brand evolve and stay ahead at every step. Let’s build a strategy that grows with the trends and your goals!