Trends to Shape Social Media in 2025

Trends to Shape Social Media in 2025

Year after year, one thing remains constant in the realm of social media marketing: change. With ever-evolving algorithms, new features and updates dropping left and right, and the next hot trend reaching viral status overnight, staying ahead of the curve is no small feat. Get ahead of the curve in 2025 by diving into the trends that will shape the future of social media marketing.

AI is Here to Stay

If the past year’s marketing trends have proven anything, it’s that artificial intelligence is no passing fad. If anything, AI will likely pick up additional momentum in transforming the social media game in the new year. What began as initial hesitation towards utilizing AI has steadily shifted into a widespread recognition among marketers as a must-have tool for creating content, personalizing marketing, and understanding audiences. EMarketer has forecasted that by 2025 more than half the people of the US age rage 12-44 will be monthly generative AI users. From generating posts and captions to using chatbots for better customer engagement, brands are tapping into AI to work smarter and stay connected with their audience. But it doesn’t stop there—AI is also leveling up predictive analytics, giving marketers the power to spot trends before they even happen. If you’re not using AI yet, it’s time to get on board. Our friends at Sprout Social recommend utilizing these AI marketing tools in 2025!

Endurance of Ephemeral Content

Ephemeral content, like Instagram Stories and Snapchat Snaps, will likely continue to dominate in 2025 by driving engagement and fostering authenticity. Its short-lived nature creates urgency, encourages candid storytelling, and boosts conversions, with platforms reporting higher engagement rates for this format compared to traditional posts.

Community-Driven Marketing

In diving deeper into the importance of personalization in email marketing earlier this year, research confirmed the broad consumers expectation of brands to deliver personalized interactions. Community-driven marketing is expected to prevail as a dominant strategy in creating customized consumer experiences. Brands are focusing on creating content that feels personal and relevant to specific neighborhoods, cities, or regions. Whether it’s through local ads, partnerships with hometown influencers, or social campaigns that speak directly to a community’s values, this approach helps businesses build trust and stronger connections. By tapping into what makes each area unique, brands can stand out and create a real sense of belonging with their audience.

Rise of Virtual Storefronts

As social media platforms evolve from engagement hubs to full-service shopping experiences, virtual storefronts such as TikTok Shop or Facebook Shops, are a rapidly growing trend on social media. Virtual storefronts allow shoppers to browse, interact, and make purchases without ever leaving the app. As more users prefer seamless, in-app experiences, brands are embracing virtual storefronts to meet these expectations. Whether it’s shoppable posts, live demos, or easy checkout options, the whole shopping experience is happening in real-time, and it’s more personal than ever. For brands, it’s a chance to connect directly with customers with a fun, interactive shopping experience, while boosting sales!

Learn more about upcoming trends and keep your content fresh in the new year with our 2025 Social Media Calendar! This calendar is a social media marketer’s best planning tool, offering twelve months of key dates, expert tips, and creative ideas to guide your activity all year long. Get yours here!