Here’s what’s working on social media in 2025
Here’s what’s working on social media in 2025
If you’re like most founders we know, posting on social media and staying on top of all the latest trends is completely daunting and can make you feel like you need to hire a 20-year-old who speaks the language to manage your socials full time. Nothing against the 20-year-olds; they’re help is invaluable, I’m sure. But that may not feel like a realistic way forward for you. So, what then?
The good news? “Trends” aren’t really what’s working right now. And, therefore, here’s what I think you should focus on this year (at least for now, lol, until the algorithm reinvents itself yet again).
1. Tailored Over Trends
Remember when Reels launched in 2020 and suddenly everyone was dancing to trending audio and pointing at floating text? Sure, those videos may have racked up millions of views at the time, but that’s likely just because that style of sharing was new. Were those views from people with real conversion potential? Maybe, but probably not.
As things have changed on Instagram over the last many months, I’m noticing less “trends” that work for everyone. Instead, I’d recommend putting all your focus on giving your audience exactly what they want from you. How? It’s actually very simple—
Check your insights: What (among your posted content) is resonating most with your followers?
Poll your audience: Ask your people directly in Stories or a post!
Here’s my point: Viral isn’t as valuable as steady growth with followers who genuinely like your business and want to work with you.
2. Collages Are Still Cool
Collages are sticking around, especially for influencers and product-based brands. BUT, they need to be unique and on-brand to work.
What makes a great collage?
A custom border that’s unique to your brand.
Unique fonts and hand-drawn elements that match your vibe.
Don’t design them in the Instagram app. (I know—it’s tempting. But spending 10 minutes in apps like Canva or Adobe Express will give you the polished, scroll-stopping look you want.)
I recently saw this post from an artist in NYC and stopped my scroll to read the entire thing. Talk about unique.
3. Long-Form Content Is Back
People are craving deeper, blog-post-style content again. Channels like Patreon, Substack, and podcasts are killllllling it these days. And it makes sense—with tools like ChatGPT producing quick, surface-level content that you’ve seen recycled everywhere, audiences are yearning for authentic voices. Real stories, real personalities, real insight.
If you’ve been on the fence about starting a newsletter, offering gated content, or writing more thoughtful captions, now’s the time. Even if you don’t gatekeep your content, longer, more personal posts can help you build trust and loyalty.
Personally, I follow a few fashion/home decor Substacks and I subscribe to a few design Patreons, all because I 1. trust the person I follow and want to hear more from them, and 2. know I’ll get more in depth content from this longer form platform than a quick tip from Instagram.
The key takeaway?
Today, standing out on social media is all about uniqueness, not chasing trends. Find what works for you and lean into it—you’ll attract the right audience and grow your business the smart way.
You might be familiar with the quote:
When the world zigs, zag.
That’s our 2025 social media mantra.
Agree or disagree? What do you think is sticking around when it comes to social trends?
