Social media is constantly evolving, and what worked last year might not work today. Here's what's actually driving engagement and results for local businesses in 2025.
Instagram Reels, TikTok, and YouTube Shorts continue to be the fastest-growing content formats. The algorithm favors video content, and businesses that embrace short-form video are seeing 3-5x more engagement than static posts.
What you can do: Start with simple behind-the-scenes content, quick tips, or before/after transformations. You don't need professional equipment—authenticity matters more than production quality.
Social media algorithms prioritize content that generates conversations. A post with 100 views and 20 meaningful comments will reach more people than a post with 1,000 views and 5 likes.
What you can do: Ask questions, create polls, respond to every comment within the first hour, and encourage discussions. Make your audience feel heard.
The biggest mistake businesses make is posting sporadically or going silent for weeks. The algorithm rewards consistent posting schedules, and your audience needs regular touchpoints to stay engaged.
What you can do: Create a content calendar. Aim for 3-5 posts per week on your primary platform. Use scheduling tools to batch-create content and maintain consistency even during busy periods.
Cross-posting the exact same content to every platform is a common shortcut, but it doesn't work. Each platform has its own culture, audience expectations, and content formats that perform best.
What you can do: Tailor your content for each platform. LinkedIn favors professional insights and industry news. Instagram thrives on visual storytelling. Facebook works well for community building and local events.
Customer testimonials, reviews, and user-generated content are more trusted than branded content. When real customers share their experiences, it creates social proof that's impossible to replicate with traditional marketing.
What you can do: Encourage customers to tag your business in their posts. Share customer success stories (with permission). Create a branded hashtag and feature the best user content on your channels.
Social media marketing isn't about following every trend or being on every platform. It's about showing up consistently, providing value, and building genuine relationships with your audience. Focus on what you can realistically maintain, and the results will follow.
We help Alaska businesses create and execute social media strategies that actually work. Let's build a plan that fits your goals and schedule.
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