Social media is no longer an optional part of business, it’s a necessity. For small business owners, keeping up with current social media trends is essential for staying competitive, connecting with customers, and driving growth.
If you’re wondering what’s trending in the world of social media right now, this blog will help break it down for you. From short-form video content to the rise of community-led growth, here’s everything you need to know to level up your social media game in 2025.
1. The Rise of Short-Form Video Content
It’s impossible to talk about social media trends without mentioning the dominance of short-form video. Platforms like TikTok, Instagram Reels, and YouTube Shorts have skyrocketed in popularity—and for good reason. These bite-sized, engaging videos are perfect for grabbing audience attention and delivering digestible, impactful messages.
Why short-form video works
- Attention spans have shrunk. Viewers are looking for quick, entertaining content they can scroll through in seconds.
- Algorithms favour it. Many social platforms now prioritise video content, making it more likely to appear in user feeds.
- It breaks monotony. A short, snappy video stands out in a sea of static images and text posts.
How your business can leverage short-form video
- Showcase your products. Create 15-second clips demonstrating your product’s features or benefits.
- Post behind-the-scenes footage. Audiences love a peek into the day-to-day life of your business.
- Hop on trends. Participate in viral challenges or trending sounds relevant to your niche.
Platform algorithms love this content, so if your business hasn’t embraced short-form video yet, now’s the time!
2. AI-Powered Content Creation and Chatbots
The latest wave of social media trends brings an element of artificial intelligence to content creation and customer service. AI tools are doing the heavy lifting for businesses, streamlining operations and elevating customer experiences.
Examples of AI-powered tools
- Content automation. Tools like ChatGPT can draft captions, blogs, or post ideas in seconds.
- Personalised responses. AI-powered chatbots deliver instant replies to customer inquiries 24/7, saving time and improving satisfaction.
- Analytical insights. AI crunches numbers to provide data-backed suggestions for when and what to post.
How your business can stay ahead
- Use an AI assistant to generate weekly or monthly content calendars.
- Embed chatbots into your social platforms to handle basic customer requests.
- Take advantage of AI tools to monitor your competitors and stay a step ahead.
AI doesn’t just save time, it ensures your business stays relevant in fast-moving digital spaces.
3. Social Commerce Is Booming
Social media is no longer just a place to post photos, it’s become a full-fledged digital marketplace. Platforms like Instagram, Facebook, and even TikTok have embraced social commerce, allowing users to shop seamlessly without leaving the app.
Why social commerce matters
- It simplifies the buying process. Customers can discover, explore, and purchase directly on social.
- Creates impulse buys. Scrolling and shopping go hand-in-hand.
- Builds brand trust. Top-tier reviews and user-generated content (like seeing others use your product) can give customers the final push to click “Buy Now.”
Tips for small businesses
- Leverage Instagram Shops and Facebook Marketplace to showcase your inventory.
- Promote flash sales or exclusive deals to your followers.
- Encourage customers to review and tag your products in their posts to provide social proof.
Small businesses that integrate social commerce into their strategy are seeing higher conversions and improved ROI.
4. Authenticity Over Perfection
The days of overly polished, staged social media content are behind us. Gen Z and Millennial audiences value authenticity over perfectly curated posts. Showing the “real” side of your business can help build trust and deepen connections with your audience.
What does authenticity look like?
- Raw, unfiltered content. Share less-edited photos or videos that capture real moments.
- Honest storytelling. Keep your captions conversational, not overly corporate.
- Engage through relatability. Address real challenges or successes your brand has faced.
How to bring authenticity to your strategy
- Share customer stories or reviews to highlight real experiences with your products.
- Spotlight your staff—introduce your team and their roles in the business.
- Post “day-in-the-life” stories that show your business behind the scenes.
The key to standing out in these social media trends? Be human, be transparent, and don’t be afraid to show your brand’s personality.
5. The Power Shift Towards Community-Led Growth
All social media trends come with a focus area, and for 2025, that’s community. Users no longer want to just follow businesses, they want to be part of them. Building a loyal community will not only boost engagement but also turn your followers into advocates for your brand.
Why communities matter
- They amplify reach. Passionate followers share your content, exposing you to a wider audience.
- They build loyalty. A community fosters a sense of belonging, keeping your followers connected longer.
- They guide your direction. Community feedback is invaluable for refining products or services.
Steps to build community-led growth
- Start a private Facebook group or a Discord channel for your most engaged followers.
- Host live Q&As or virtual meet-ups to connect directly with your audience.
- Encourage your followers’ participation—whether through contests, polls, or user-generated content.
When your audience feels like they’re part of something bigger, they’ll champion your brand in ways paid advertising can’t match.
Wrapping Up
From creating TikTok reels to building a loyal community of fans, there’s no shortage of exciting new ways to enhance your social media presence. These social media trends, powered by innovative tools and shifting consumer preferences, offer massive opportunities for small businesses, and now it’s time to take action! Evaluate your current social media strategy, pick one or two trends that resonate most with your business, and start experimenting. If you need a hand with your social media strategy, we’re here to help. Contact us for tailored social media support today.