Social media is changing very fast. The ways that worked last year are already old. If brands do not change, they get left behind. Social media is still a great way to connect with people, get them excited, and grow a business. If you know the latest trends, you can stay ahead.
HubSpot, a trusted marketing company, shared a full report about what is working now.
Here are six major trends that will shape social media in 2025, plus what you can do to stay ahead.
1. Building Communities Matters More Than Ever
Brands that only post when they want to sell something lose their audience. People now want to feel like they are part of a group, not just customers.
Why It Matters:
- 85% of marketers say building a community is very important for success in 2025.
What You Can Do:
- Have someone from your team focus on managing your community online.
- Create fun activities like “Fan of the Month” or “Best Comment of the Week.”
- Host live “Ask Me Anything” sessions to talk with your community.
2. Shopping Through Social Media Will Grow Fast
People do not want to leave apps like Instagram or TikTok to buy things. They want to shop while they scroll.
Why It Matters:
- 69% of marketers believe social commerce will be bigger than regular online shopping by the end of 2025.
What You Can Do:
- Set up Instagram Shops or TikTok Shops.
- Show real people using your products (this is called “user-generated content”).
- Try live shopping events where people can buy right away during a video.
3. Using AI for Content Creation
Coming up with ideas for social media can be tiring. Now, Artificial Intelligence (AI) can help make it easier and faster.
Why It Matters:
- 75% of marketers say AI makes them more creative.
- 72% say AI helps their posts perform better.
What You Can Do:
- Use tools like Jasper.ai to write captions.
- Use Repurpose.io to turn long videos into short clips.
- Let AI help you find the best times to post.
4. Video Content Is King
If you are not making videos, you are missing out. People love short, fun videos that feel real.
Why It Matters:
- Short videos on TikTok and Instagram have the highest engagement rates.
- Long YouTube videos help build strong connections with viewers.
What You Can Do:
- Make both short videos for TikTok and longer ones for YouTube.
- Add captions because many people watch videos without sound.
- Use free editing tools like CapCut to make quick videos.
5. Being Honest Builds Trust
Today, people care about trust. They want to know what brands stand for and how they treat customers.
Why It Matters:
- 68% of consumers say trust is the most important thing when choosing a brand.
What You Can Do:
- Show behind-the-scenes videos.
- Be open about how you use customer data.
- Create an “Our Story” section on Instagram or your website.
6. Social Media Is the New Search Engine
Young people are now using TikTok and Instagram to search instead of Google.
Why It Matters:
- 40% of Gen Z users search on social platforms instead of Google.
What You Can Do:
- Add searchable words (like “best tips for 2025”) in your videos and captions.
- Answer common questions with your content.
- Use trending hashtags and popular search words.
Bonus Tips to Win at Social Media
- Make different content for each platform: Use LinkedIn for business tips, Instagram for building community, and YouTube for teaching.
- Use AI to connect: Tools like HubSpot’s social media manager help schedule posts and track what people say about you.
- Keep it real: Simple, honest videos made with your phone often work better than fancy, high-budget ones.
Final Thought
Social media is changing fast. You do not have to do everything at once. Pick one or two of these trends to start with. Focus on connecting with people, not just selling. If you do that, you will be ready to grow in 2025 and beyond.
