Once upon a time, social media was just about sharing what you had for lunch. Now? It’s a full-blown marketing universe – fast-moving, constantly evolving, and slightly chaotic (in the best way).
If you're a brand, business, or creator, keeping up with social media trends isn't optional anymore – it's essential. These platforms aren't just where people connect – they’re where they shop, search, learn, and get influenced. And that means every swipe, scroll, and story matters.
10 must-know social media trends in 2025
Whether you're a seasoned strategist or someone trying to dip their toes into social media marketing trends for the first time, knowing what’s working – and what’s working right now – is the difference between being visible and being invisible. And with so many new trends in social media popping up every few weeks, even marketers need a map.
So, here it is – your guide to the top social media trends every marketer should know in 2025. No jargon. No fluff. Just real insights to help you stay ahead, stay smart, and stay seen.
1. Social media is officially a search engine
Raise your hand if you've ever typed “best face wash for oily skin” into the YouTube search bar. Yep – you're not alone.
One of the biggest new trends in social media is that platforms like Instagram, YouTube, and TikTok are now discovery engines. In fact, according to HubSpot, 26% of consumers prefer to find products through social media over traditional search.
Try this: Use keywords in your captions the same way you'd use them in a blog or website. Add some friendly, scroll-worthy language and boom – you're searchable and social.
Need help making your content more findable (and likeable)? We can help you show up and stand out – let’s connect.
2. Short-form video = endless potential
People want snackable content – fast, fun, and super scrollable. No surprise then that short-form videos are 2.5x more engaging than longer ones.
Whether it’s a funny behind-the-scenes reel or a 15-second how-to, short videos continue to dominate social media marketing trends.
Try this: Start with a strong hook in the first three seconds. Even something like “Wait, don’t scroll yet…” can buy you precious attention.
3. Influencers? More like creative partners
Influencers aren’t just there to hold your product and smile. They’re launching brands, selling out drops, and setting trends.
If HubSpot findings are to go by, 1 in 4 consumers have bought something based on an influencer’s recommendation in 2023. If that’s not influencer flex, what is?
Try this: Focus on smaller creators who know your audience inside out. Think less celebrity, more trusted friend.
4. AI is helping – not replacing
Let’s be real: AI’s not here to steal your job. But it can help with the busy work – caption drafts, trend spotting, or even video transcripts.
And if you're wondering whether everyone's using it – yep. 71% of social media marketers already are.
Try this: Let AI handle the groundwork – then add your brand’s personality before you hit publish.
Want to supercharge your workflow without losing your human touch? We bring the best of AI and creativity together – let’s connect!
5. It’s all about the community now
Forget chasing virality. The real magic is in making people feel like they belong.
Private groups, niche forums, and follower shoutouts are rising fast in the list of social media trends for marketers. It's not about how many views you get – it's about how many people care.
Try this: Host a live Q&A, start a comment thread, or run a poll that feels more like a conversation than a sales pitch.
6. Flaws are fabulous
Perfect is out. Awkward, funny, honest – that’s what’s in. One of the most refreshing social media trends this year is the return of real.
People don’t want polished ads – they want people. Think Duolingo’s chaotic TikToks or Wendy’s hilarious tweets. If you’re real, people will relate.
Try this: Show the faces behind your brand. Post the bloopers. Laugh at yourself (tastefully). It works.
7. Social commerce = shop while you scroll
No one wants to leave an app to buy something anymore. Social platforms have figured this out – and they’re making it easier than ever to shop where you scroll.
Marketers believe people will buy more inside apps than on brand websites or Amazon!
Try this: Make your posts shoppable. Tag products, highlight real reviews, and reduce friction wherever you can.
8. LinkedIn’s not boring anymore
Surprise! LinkedIn’s having a glow-up.
Between meme posts, behind-the-scenes peeks, and career hot takes, it’s no longer just about promotions and polished updates. This shift is part of the latest trends in digital marketing, especially for B2B brands.
Try this: Start by posting once a week – something real, not just impressive. Share a story. Ask a question. Be a person.
9. Your employees are your most powerful storytellers
Forget stock photos – the people who work for you are already your best influencers.
As with any user-generated content, employee-shared content performs 8x better than branded content. Even more reason to encourage your team to post behind-the-scenes moments, milestones, or stories about their day-to-day.
10. Micro-moments matter more than ever
Big, expensive campaigns still have their place – but don’t underestimate the power of fast, casual, in-the-moment content.
Reacting to trends, commenting on real-time events, and jumping on new formats – these micro-moments are becoming must-haves in your content strategy. Did you hop on the Ghibli trend this summer?
Try this: Create a “fast lane” for approvals. Sometimes, hitting publish fast matters more than perfecting the copy.
Wrapping up – your 2025 social survival kit
If there’s one thing we know for sure, it’s this: social media trends aren’t slowing down.
But you don’t need to follow every shiny new thing. You just need to stay curious, experiment smartly, and keep listening to your audience.
The top social media trends every marketer should know all boil down to one big idea: be human. Be relevant. And be ready to adapt.
Overwhelmed by options? Markiverse turns chaos into clarity – with custom strategies built around your brand goals. Let’s make it work together.
