Social Media Trends for 2024-25 [With 7 Actionable Tips]

When a specific topic, format or behavior gains a great deal of attention and becomes popular on social media platforms, it turns into a social media trend.  

A social media trend first sparks curiosity among the audience and then strikes an emotional chord with them. Once the trend resonates with more and more people, it starts to spread across social media platforms like wildfire, with tons of users doing their bit to keep the flame alive. These can include things like using relevant hashtags in posts, organizing social media contests and challenges, sharing memes and the like.  

Take the #TikTokMadeMeBuyIt trend, for example. This trend is about users showcasing products they discovered on TikTok, often in creative or fun ways. We're talking beauty products, kitchen gadgets, you name it! These videos highlight how TikTok influencers and everyday users can drive major interest and sales for brands.  

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The trend emphasizes the platform's power in shaping purchasing decisions, as viewers are inspired to try out products that have been authentically recommended by their peers. 

Since research states that three in four businesses use social media to connect with their audience, leveraging trends in their social media marketing efforts can go a long way in amplifying their online presence.  

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Top social media trends 

• Focus on a few relevant hashtags as platforms prioritize searchability over hashtag quantity. 
• Meta’s Threads is quickly becoming a major platform for text-based conversations, seamlessly integrated with Instagram. 
• Instagram is overtaking Yelp as the go-to for customer reviews, emphasizing the importance of showcasing feedback. 
• Social media is becoming the primary search tool, especially for Gen Z and millennials, so optimize your content for search. 
• Social media teams are evolving, requiring adaptability to keep up with new trends and roles. 
• Audiences crave transparency and authenticity, favoring brands that share real, behind-the-scenes content. 
• The trend is shifting towards fun, relatable brand voices, moving away from the serious, edgy tones of the past.    

11 Emerging social media trends  

Here’s a list of social media trends that you need to incorporate into your social media strategy to ensure your brand stays relevant in a rapidly changing business landscape. 

Now let's get to know each of them better. 

Short videos are the new norm

Short-form videos are quickly becoming the go-to format on social media and it’s easy to see why! Platforms like TikTok, Instagram Reels and YouTube Shorts have popularized this trend, making bite-sized content the preferred way for users to consume information. 

Recent studies show that 73% of consumers favor short-form video content when searching for products or services. This is especially true for Gen Z, with 57% of them preferring to learn about new offerings through quick video clips. Marketers are catching on too — most of them planning to boost their social media budgets for short-form video content, highlighting a major shift in how brands connect with audiences. 

The beauty of short-form videos is that they’re easy to create, easy to consume and they pack a punch. They’re perfect for delivering quick, engaging messages that resonate with audiences. Plus, with tools that make video creation more accessible than ever, everyone from big brands to solo creators is jumping on board. 

Here are 50+ Important Social Media Video Statistics to Know 

The rise of social commerce

Social commerce is no longer just a buzzword — it’s quickly becoming the future of online shopping. Platforms like TikTok, Instagram and Facebook have made it incredibly easy to shop directly within their apps and users are loving it. Whether it’s discovering new products through TikTok’s viral videos or scrolling through Instagram’s shoppable posts, social media is where people are finding and buying their next favorite thing. 

TikTok, in particular, is pushing hard into the shopping space with the launch of TikTok Shop in the U.S. in late 2023. This feature allows users to purchase products directly from the app, making the entire shopping experience more seamless. Expect to see more interactive shopping experiences like live streams where users can watch, engage and buy products in real time. 

Learn more on TikTok Advertising and get grooving! 

Instagram continues to lead the way, especially with Gen Z. Nearly 44% of Instagram users are shopping on the app every week. Features like Instagram Shopping and the ability to save products for later have made in-app purchases more convenient than ever. 

Interesting Read: 11 Instagram Trends to Use in Social Media Marketing 

Facebook isn’t far behind, with its Marketplace and Shops making it a go-to for social commerce, especially among older generations. 

If this is new to you, hop right into this blog on Social Media for E-commerce 

But it’s not just about convenience — social commerce is also proving to be effective. A significant number of marketers are seeing a high return on investment (ROI) from social shopping. Despite its growth, social commerce still has some trust issues to overcome. Concerns about brand legitimacy, refund policies and product quality are holding some users back. However, with platforms integrating more secure payment options like PayPal, it’s becoming easier for consumers to trust these apps for their shopping needs. 

💡 Pro Tip:

Sprinklr’s unified conversational commerce platform enables full conversational journeys across the 30+ messaging, live chat, social and app channels your customers prefer — helping you create premium commerce experiences at every touchpoint on their journey.  

TRY CONVERSATIONAL COMMERCE FOR FREE

Social media customer service is the new standard

Social media is rapidly becoming the go-to channel for customer service and if your brand isn’t ready, you might be left behind. More and more consumers — especially Gen Z, Millennials and Gen X — are sliding into brands' DMs when they need help. In fact, nearly one in five of these users have reached out to a brand through direct messages in the past few months. 

Why the shift? It’s all about speed and convenience. People expect quick responses — often within minutes — and social media provides the perfect platform for that. According to recent surveys, 40% of customers expect swift responses. This demand for instant support is pushing more brands to offer customer service directly through their social channels. 

But providing round-the-clock support can be challenging, which is where AI-powered chatbots come in. These bots are getting smarter and more brands are using them to handle the influx of customer service requests on social media. For instance, some brands use chatbots to automatically respond to common inquiries, while others take it a step further by personalizing responses to make them feel more human. 

In 2024, we’ll see even more brands adopting social media as their primary customer service channel. Whether it’s through DMs, comments or chats, social media is where your customers are — and they expect you to be there too.  

Learn How to Implement Social Media Customer Service Successfully 

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The rise of nano and micro-influencers

In the world of social media marketing, a new breed of influencers is taking center stage: nano and micro-influencers. These content creators, with follower counts ranging from a few hundred to a few thousand, are proving to be highly effective in engaging audiences and driving results for brands. 

The numbers speak for themselves. Micro-influencers, who are slightly more popular than nano-influencers, have been shown to generate up to 60% more social media engagement than their macro counterparts. This trend is pushing more brands to shift their focus towards smaller influencers, not just because of their authenticity but also because of their affordability. Collaborating with nano-influencers is often much more cost-effective, allowing brands to stretch their marketing budgets further while still achieving impressive results. 

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In fact, 84% of marketers believe that working with influencers will continue to be a crucial strategy in 2024, with many predicting that smaller influencers will play an even bigger role. It’s not just about follower count anymore; it’s about the quality of content and the ability to connect with an audience in a meaningful way. 

Whether it’s through sponsored posts, product collaborations or simply sharing authentic experiences, these smaller influencers are proving that you don’t need millions of followers to make a big impact. 

AI-powered content creation and the rise of generative AI

In 2024, AI-powered content creation is already making waves and dramatically changing the face of digital marketing. As we step into the future, AI will definitely be used to generate text, images and videos at scale, allowing brands to ramp up content production. 

But there’s more to the AI story — generative AI in social media is stepping into the spotlight and it’s here to stay. Generative AI tools are becoming an essential part of the social media marketer's toolkit. In fact, over a third of social media marketers believe that integrating AI into their strategies will be crucial in the coming year.  

It isn’t limited to just writing copies or creating images. Social media marketers are using it for a wide range of tasks — from brainstorming new ideas to refining content to match a brand’s voice or the tone of specific platforms. Tools like ChatGPT for text, MidJourney for images and various AI assistants for videos and music are making it easier than ever to produce high-quality content that resonates with audiences. 

If you’ve played around with ChatGPT before but haven’t explored its full potential, you’re in for a treat! Dive into our blog on ChatGPT for Social Media to discover cool tricks and use cases you probably didn’t know about! 

Platforms like Meta and YouTube are rolling out new AI features that make content creation more dynamic and accessible.  

• Meta, for example, has introduced generative AI tools that allow marketers to expand images, create backgrounds and generate multiple versions of ad copy — all with a few clicks.  Source  
• YouTube’s “Dream Screen” tool will let creators generate backgrounds for their Shorts, blending AI with creativity in exciting new ways. 

As these tools become more integrated into daily workflows, the potential for AI to enhance social media content creation is virtually limitless. While human input will always be essential for adding that unique touch, using AI-powered social media content creation and generative AI will optimize strategies and elevate customer experiences to new heights in 2024 and beyond.  

🚀Create content on the fly  

With Sprinklr AI+, you can generate content across channels, ensure faster replies with response simplification and modification and simplify content reviews with AI-powered grammar and tone checks.  

 

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Disappearing or ephemeral content is here to stay

The rise of ephemeral content, as seen in the popular Stories feature of Instagram, will continue to dominate social media platforms. 

Businesses will take advantage of the 24-hour lifespan of stories to create FOMO (fear of missing out) and a sense of urgency among their followers. You can expect more behind-the-scene glimpses, exclusive offers and time-limited promotions that encourage users to stay engaged. 

Through creative storytelling in ephemeral content, you can establish a personal connection with your audience, fostering an authentic bond and loyal following. 

Take reference: How to Use Social Media Stories: A Beginner’s Guide 

Consumers will demand more control over their data

Today people are becoming more aware of the value of their data. As a result, they will want more control over how it is used going forward. To meet this demand, brands will have to prioritize transparency in how they collect and use data. 

Brands will have to respect users’ privacy preferences and provide more specific options to them if they choose not to be tracked or have their information shared. This includes allowing users to manage cookie settings, opt out of targeted ads and have more control over the access to their information. 

You'll have to take a customer-centric approach toward managing data if you want to establish lasting relationships and loyalty in the privacy-conscious landscape of today.  

Also Read: Social Media Security: How to Stay Safe on Social Media? 

Social media dominates advertising

In 2024, social media is firmly established as a powerhouse in the advertising world, with digital ad spending projected to soar past $740 billion. Experts anticipate this figure could climb to $802 billion by 2026, making digital ads account for over 65% of total advertising expenditures. A significant chunk of this spending is directed towards social media, with platforms like Meta and ByteDance leading the charge. 

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Last year, businesses in the U.S. spent approximately $68.45 billion on social media advertising, averaging about 19% of total marketing budgets per company. By 2028, this percentage is expected to rise to over 26.4%. Meta is set to capture the largest share of social media ad spending, projected to account for 64% of the global market in 2024, especially as brands shift their focus away from platforms like X. 

Must Read: Here is a guide on Facebook Advertising tailored for you.

As competition intensifies, brands are moving towards highly personalized ad content to engage consumers more effectively. This means crafting marketing messages tailored to individual preferences and behaviors, rather than relying on generic ads.  

However, with great power comes great responsibility. The challenge for brands in 2024 will be to navigate the complexities of social media advertising in a way that doesn’t overwhelm or annoy consumers. This means:  

• Being smart with targeting  
• Using retargeting strategies effectively  
• Continuously refining ad content to keep it fresh and engaging  

Brands also need to stay mindful of broader consumer concerns, such as privacy, online security and commitment to social and environmental governance (ESG).  

Authenticity is the new standard

In 2024 and beyond, authenticity is more than just a buzzword — it’s a necessity for brands on social media. Consumers are increasingly wary of overly polished, hard-sell content and are instead gravitating toward brands that offer genuine, relatable experiences. People want to connect with brands that feel human, that share their values and that tell real stories rather than just pushing products. 

User-generated content (UGC) is at the heart of this movement. When customers see other people like themselves using and enjoying a product, it creates a level of trust that brand-created content often can’t match. Brands that feature UGC not only showcase authenticity but also build stronger relationships with their audiences. It’s no wonder that they’re 2.4 times more likely to view a brand as authentic when it highlights UGC. 

Learn How to Build Brand Authenticity with User-Generated Content and Employee Advocacy 

Moreover, transparency is key. Whether it’s admitting a mistake during a crisis or simply being honest in communication, brands that are open and straightforward with their audience earn more trust. Nearly 89% of social media users believe that brands can regain trust by openly admitting mistakes and communicating their plans to rectify issues. 

As we move forward, brands that prioritize authentic, relatable and interactive content will stand out. While polished, high-production value content still has its place, 68% of consumers now prefer content that feels genuine and relatable. With the rise of AI-generated content, the demand for real, unfiltered experiences will only increase. Marketers are encouraged to embrace this shift by showcasing their employees, sharing behind-the-scenes glimpses and creating playful, engaging posts that reflect their brand values. 

Building and Maintaining Brand Authenticity at Scale

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Livestream shopping will become more mainstream 

Livestream shopping is transforming the way we shop and in 2024 it's poised to become a staple in the online retail experience. This trend merges the excitement of live video with the convenience of e-commerce, allowing brands and influencers to:  

• Showcase products 
• Offer exclusive deals  
• Engage directly with their audience in real time  

Imagine being able to ask questions about a product, see it demonstrated live and make a purchase — all without leaving the stream. 

What makes livestream shopping so appealing is the interactive element. Viewers aren’t just passive consumers; they’re part of the experience. From live polls and Q&A sessions to real-time product recommendations, this format brings a level of engagement that traditional online shopping simply can’t match. Plus, with the rise of social media platforms and streaming services, brands can reach a wider audience by streaming simultaneously across multiple channels like YouTube, Instagram and TikTok. 

The integration of AR and VR technologies is taking livestream shopping to the next level. Virtual try-ons, immersive product demos and interactive shopping environments are no longer just futuristic concepts — they’re becoming a reality. As these technologies become more accessible, we can expect livestream shopping to become even more immersive and engaging, offering customers an experience that’s both entertaining and convenient. 

Additionally, the ephemeral nature of live streams, where content is only available for a limited time, taps into the powerful FOMO effect. Brands can create a sense of urgency and exclusivity around their live shopping events, driving higher engagement and encouraging viewers to act quickly before the deals disappear. 

Relevant Read: What is Social Shopping? How to Use It for Product Marketing  

Social media becomes a search engine

n a surprising twist, social media platforms are rapidly becoming the go-to destination for search, surpassing traditional search engines like Google. In January 2023 alone, 94.6% of internet users between 16 and 64 years old visited a social network site, compared to just 81.8% who visited a search engine.

Top types of websites visited and apps used in January 2023 

This shift is particularly pronounced among younger generations, with 81% of Gen Zers and 48% of millennials getting their product information mainly from social media.  

Users are finding social search incredibly convenient, as they can discover products, research brands and get advice without leaving the platforms they already frequent. As more people turn to social media for search queries, brands are adapting their strategies to meet consumers where they are.  

To optimize their content for social search, brands are employing a variety of tactics: 

• Using relevant hashtags and keywords in post captions 
• Adding alt text to images to improve accessibility 
• Including keyword-optimized captions and subtitles in videos 

Another innovative approach is the use of search ads on platforms like TikTok, Instagram and Reddit. TikTok's Search Ads, launched in late 2023, have already proven effective, with 70% of ad groups that used them achieving a lower cost per acquisition (CPA) than those that didn't.  

👉 Here are 7 Ways to Use Social Media for SEO in 2024 

Impact of social media trends on different industries  

Here’s how social media trends impacts various industries, focusing on the top 5-6 sectors:  

7 Actionable tips to ace social media trends 

Social media trends not only captivate audiences but also serve as powerful tools for crafting a distinct and influential brand identity.  

Here are some of their actionable tips to make best use of 2024 social media trends: 

1. Stay relevant 

Being aware of the latest trends ensures your content aligns with what captures the attention of your target audience, thus keeping your online presence fresh and appealing. 

Stay updated by actively participating in industry forums, subscribing to trend newsletters and monitoring social media analytics to understand what's resonating with your audience 

2. Maximize engagement 

By making the most of popular trends, you can increase user engagement and interactions. This approach widens your reach and has a more significant impact on your followers.  

Consider running interactive polls, challenges or contests related to trending topics to encourage active participation and create a sense of community around your brand. 

3. Outshine competitors 

Keeping up with trends allows you to stay ahead of the competition, giving you an added edge and positioning your brand as an innovative and dynamic presence in the digital sphere. 

Regularly analyze your competitors' social media strategies and identify unique ways to incorporate trends into your own content to differentiate yourself.  

Pro Tip: Sprinklr’s competitive insights & benchmarking tools allow you to benchmark your social performance in real-time against competitors or other best-in-class brands. How? Sprinklr AI automatically gathers and analyzes content to deliver deep insights that go beyond engagement metrics and a number of posts. 

4. Build authentic connections 

Embracing current trends fosters authenticity as users appreciate brands and individuals who connect with them on a personal level. Share behind-the-scenes content, user-generated content or stories that reflect your brand's values and personality, creating a more genuine connection with your audience.  

5. Identity and leverage opportunities 

Being updated on trends helps you identify potential marketing opportunities, partnerships and collaborations that can elevate your brand or content to new heights. Actively participate in industry events, webinars or online communities to stay informed about emerging opportunities and potential collaborations within your niche. 

6. Adapt to platform changes 

Social media platforms often introduce new features and algorithms. Being aware of trends allows you to adapt quickly and make the most of platform updates to optimize your online strategy. Regularly explore new features on platforms like Instagram, Facebook and X and adapt your content strategy to leverage these changes for better visibility and engagement.  

7. Enhance brand image 

Incorporating relevant trends showcases your adaptability and willingness to evolve, reinforcing a positive brand image that resonates with your audience. Communicate your brand's values through trend-inspired content, demonstrating a commitment to staying current and meeting the evolving preferences of your audience. 

Recommended Reading: How to Build Brand Awareness (with 10+ Tips) 

Final Thoughts 

Some of the above-mentioned social media trends have already made their mark in 2024. From AR to short-form videos, these captivating trends have tremendous potential to transform how we connect and engage on social media platforms. 

By staying updated on the latest trends and closely observing the changing social media landscape, you can enhance your brand’s presence and leave a mark that lasts for years to come. 

At Sprinklr, we know how incredibly important it is to keep a close eye on social media trends. We offer a unified social media management platform that will assist you in monitoring, managing and optimizing your social media projects while helping you bring out the best from your customer interactions.  

For more information, check out the Sprinklr Social platform or register for a free trial now.