by Scarlett Darbyshire

The Ultimate Social Media Checklist: What to Do Before You Hit “Publish”

Female Blogger

Before you hit that “Post” button, take a deep breath and run through this checklist to ensure your social media content is polished, engaging, and ready to wow your audience. Skipping a step could mean missing an opportunity—or worse, making a mistake you’ll regret.

1. Check Your Goals

  • Why are you posting this?
    • Is it to educate, entertain, promote, or engage?
    • Does this post align with your current social media strategy?
  • Tip: If it doesn’t serve a clear purpose, rethink or refine it.

2. Proofread (Yes, Again!)

  • Typos and Grammar: Double-check for errors—nothing kills credibility like a spelling mistake.
  • Clarity: Is your message clear and concise?
  • Tone: Does it match your brand voice?

3. Review Visuals

  • High-Quality Images/Videos: Are your visuals sharp, properly cropped, and professional-looking?
  • Consistency: Does it match your brand aesthetic (colors, fonts, filters)?
  • Alt Text: Have you added alt text for accessibility?

4. Check Your Links

  • Clickable and Correct: Are all links functional and directing to the right page?
  • UTM Parameters: Have you added tracking to monitor post performance?

5. Optimize for Each Platform

  • Text Length: Is your caption optimized for the platform (short for Twitter, longer for LinkedIn)?
  • Image/Video Specs: Does the media fit the platform’s dimensions?
  • Hashtags:
    • Are they relevant?
    • Have you included platform-specific hashtags (e.g., trending tags for Instagram or TikTok)?

6. Include a Clear Call-to-Action (CTA)

  • Examples of CTAs:
    • “Visit our website to learn more.”
    • “Tag a friend who needs this.”
    • “Drop your thoughts in the comments below!”
  • Why It Matters: A strong CTA encourages engagement and drives your goals.

7. Add Tags and Mentions

  • Are you tagging the right people or businesses?
    • For collaborations, partnerships, or shoutouts.
  • Check Handles: Ensure the usernames are correct and active.

8. Schedule at the Right Time

  • When is your audience most active?
    • Use analytics tools to find the best posting times for your platform.
  • Timezone Considerations: Make sure you’re posting when your target audience is awake!

9. Check Accessibility

  • Alt Text: Have you added descriptions for images?
  • Captions/Subtitles: Are videos captioned for those watching without sound?
  • Contrast and Readability: Are your text and background colors easy to read?

10. Ensure Compliance

  • Copyright: Are you using properly licensed or original content?
  • Disclosures: Have you added #ad or #sponsored for paid partnerships?
  • Privacy: Avoid sharing sensitive information, especially in user-generated content.

11. Review Engagement Plan

  • How will you respond to comments and questions?
    • Have a plan in place to engage with your audience promptly.
  • Prepare for Feedback: Be ready for positive and constructive responses.

12. Preview Your Post

  • Double-Check Formatting: Are line breaks, emojis, and links displaying properly?
  • Preview View: Use platform tools to see how your post looks before it goes live.

13. Breathe and Ask Yourself

  • “Does this post add value to my audience?”
  • “Would I stop scrolling for this?”

14. Hit Publish (or Schedule!)

Now that you’ve checked everything, it’s time to confidently share your content!

Bonus: Post-Publish To-Do

  • Monitor Performance: Track likes, shares, comments, and clicks.
  • Engage: Respond to comments and messages quickly.
  • Analyze: Use insights to learn what works for your next post.

By following this checklist, you’ll ensure every post reflects your brand’s best self and resonates with your audience. What’s your must-do before posting? Let us know in the comments

by Scarlett Darbyshire

How to Ensure Your Business is a Social Media Success

Checklist

How to Ensure Your Business is a Social Media Success

Social media can be a goldmine for businesses—or a frustrating void where your posts disappear into the digital abyss. But fear not! With the right strategy, a dash of creativity, and a sprinkle of consistency, you can turn your social media presence into a success story. Here’s your guide to making it happen:

1. Set Clear Goals (And Actually Stick to Them)

If you don’t know what you’re aiming for, how will you know when you succeed?

  • Define Your Goals:
    • Are you looking for brand awareness, more sales, or customer loyalty?
    • Be specific: “Increase Instagram engagement by 20% in 3 months” beats “Do better on social.”
  • Why It Matters: Clear goals keep you focused and help measure your progress.

2. Know Your Audience Like Your Best Friend

Social media isn’t a one-size-fits-all game.

  • What to Do:
    • Research your audience’s age, interests, and online habits.
    • Use analytics tools to see what content they love (and what they scroll past).
  • Pro Tip: Don’t waste time creating TikToks for a crowd that lives on LinkedIn.

3. Pick the Right Platforms (Less is More!)

You don’t have to be everywhere—just where your audience is.

  • Where to Focus:
    • Instagram for visual content.
    • LinkedIn for professional networking.
    • TikTok for snappy, trend-driven videos.
  • Bonus Tip: It’s better to excel on 2 platforms than flop on 5.

4. Create Scroll-Stopping Content

In a sea of endless posts, yours need to stand out.

  • What Works:
    • High-quality images and videos.
    • Clear, compelling captions.
    • Value-driven posts (think tips, humor, or inspiration).
  • Experiment: Mix up your formats—Reels, polls, carousels, or behind-the-scenes sneak peeks.

5. Be Consistent (But Not Annoying)

Posting regularly builds trust and keeps you top-of-mind.

  • How to Stay Consistent:
    • Create a content calendar to plan posts in advance.
    • Post at optimal times when your audience is online.
  • Warning: Don’t post so much that people mute or unfollow you!

6. Engage Like a Human, Not a Robot

Social media is a two-way street.

  • What to Do:
    • Respond to comments and DMs promptly.
    • Like and share user-generated content.
    • Join conversations—don’t just broadcast messages.
  • Pro Tip: Show some personality! People follow people, not faceless brands.

7. Use Hashtags Wisely

Hashtags can help new audiences discover your content—if you use them right.

  • How to Do It:
    • Use a mix of popular and niche hashtags (e.g., #SmallBusinessLove and #CustomCandles).
    • Don’t overdo it—5-10 hashtags are plenty.
  • Test & Learn: Check which hashtags bring the most engagement.

8. Leverage Analytics (AKA, Don’t Guess)

Data is your best friend when it comes to social media success.

  • What to Track:
    • Engagement: Likes, comments, shares.
    • Reach: How many people see your posts.
    • Conversion: Clicks to your website or sales page.
  • Why It Matters: Analytics show what’s working—and what’s not.

9. Stay on Top of Trends (But Be Authentic)

Jumping on trends can boost visibility, but don’t force it.

  • What Works:
    • Participate in challenges or use trending sounds (if they align with your brand).
    • Add your unique twist to popular content.
  • Warning: If it feels awkward or inauthentic, skip it. Your audience will notice.

10. Invest in Paid Ads (Smartly)

Organic reach is great, but paid ads can supercharge your efforts.

  • How to Start:
    • Use boosted posts to target specific audiences.
    • Test different ad formats like carousel ads, stories, or videos.
  • Pro Tip: Start small, analyze results, and scale up successful campaigns.

11. Collaborate with Influencers or Partners

Teaming up with the right people can expand your reach.

  • How to Do It:
    • Partner with influencers who align with your brand and values.
    • Collaborate with complementary businesses for cross-promotions.
  • Why It Works: Their audience becomes your audience.

12. Adapt and Evolve

Social media changes fast—what worked last year might flop today.

  • How to Stay Agile:
    • Keep an eye on new features (like Instagram Threads or TikTok SEO trends).
    • Test different strategies and learn from failures.
  • Mindset Tip: Treat your social media as a living, evolving project.

Final Thoughts

Success on social media doesn’t happen overnight, but with a clear plan, engaging content, and genuine interactions, you can make it work for your business. Remember, social media is about building connections—not just posting for the sake of it.

What’s your top tip for social media success? Share it below—we’d love to hear from you!

by Scarlett Darbyshire

How to Seamlessly Incorporate Social Media into Your Website

Social Media Tabs

Your website is your online headquarters, and social media is your networking powerhouse. When you integrate the two effectively, you create a powerful, interconnected web presence that can drive engagement, boost credibility, and even increase sales. But how do you incorporate your social media into your website without it looking like a chaotic mess? Here’s how to do it the right way.

1. Add Social Media Icons to Your Website

The easiest way to connect your social media with your website is through clickable icons.

  • Where to Place Them:
    • Header or footer (for easy access).
    • “Contact Us” or “About” pages.
  • Tips for Success:
    • Use consistent, recognizable icons for platforms like Facebook, Instagram, Twitter, and LinkedIn.
    • Link them directly to your profiles—no one likes playing “Find the Page.”

2. Embed Social Media Feeds

Why tell visitors you’re active on social media when you can show them?

  • How to Do It:
    • Use widgets or plugins to embed feeds from Instagram, Twitter, or Facebook.
    • Highlight your latest posts, updates, or promotions in real time.
  • Bonus Tip: Choose a clean, minimal design to avoid overwhelming your page.

Pro Tip: If your content is mostly memes and cat videos, make sure it aligns with your brand tone before embedding!

3. Add Social Sharing Buttons

Want people to share your blog posts, products, or announcements? Make it easy for them.

  • How to Do It:
    • Add social sharing buttons to key pages like blogs, product pages, or event announcements.
    • Use plugins like ShareThis or AddThis for seamless integration.
  • Why It Matters: Your audience does the marketing for you—what’s better than free publicity?

4. Highlight User-Generated Content (UGC)

Social proof is powerful. Show off the love your customers are giving you on social media.

  • How to Do It:
    • Create a gallery of customer photos tagged with your product or hashtag.
    • Use tools like Taggbox or TINT to display UGC directly on your website.
  • Bonus: Add a “Shop the Look” feature if you’re in e-commerce for extra functionality.

5. Create a Social Media Hub or Page

Dedicate a section of your website to your social media presence.

  • Ideas for a Social Hub:
    • A page featuring your most engaging posts and videos.
    • Links to your profiles with a CTA (e.g., “Follow us for daily tips!”).
    • Testimonials or shoutouts from followers.

Pro Tip: Label it something creative like “What’s Happening Online” or “Our Social Side.”

6. Incorporate Social Media CTAs

Every page of your website is an opportunity to guide visitors toward your social media.

  • How to Do It:
    • Add CTAs like “Follow us for updates!” or “Tag us @YourHandle to be featured!”
    • Include them at the end of blog posts, in sidebars, or on thank-you pages.
  • Why It Works: People love clear directions—and a little nudge can go a long way.

7. Use Social Media Login Options

Make your website user-friendly by allowing visitors to sign up or log in using their social media accounts.

  • Why It’s Useful:
    • Simplifies the user experience.
    • Encourages people to connect with your brand on multiple platforms.
  • Platforms to Use: Facebook, Google, or LinkedIn (depending on your audience).

8. Feature Social Media Testimonials and Reviews

Have glowing comments on your social media? Showcase them!

  • How to Do It:
    • Create a carousel or slider of top reviews from your social media pages.
    • Include screenshots or reformat them into a testimonials section.
  • Why It’s Effective: Nothing builds trust like hearing it straight from your audience.

9. Promote Social Media Campaigns

Running a hashtag campaign, giveaway, or special event? Highlight it on your website!

  • How to Do It:
    • Add banners or pop-ups promoting the campaign.
    • Embed posts or videos related to the campaign for context.
  • Bonus Tip: Create a dedicated landing page with instructions and updates.

10. Integrate Social Media Analytics

Track how well your website-social media connection is performing.

  • What to Use:
    • Google Analytics: To see referral traffic from social media.
    • Native analytics (e.g., Instagram Insights, Facebook Analytics) for engagement data.
  • Why It Matters: Use the data to refine your strategy and make the integration even better.

Final Thoughts

Incorporating your social media into your website isn’t just about adding links or widgets—it’s about creating a seamless experience for your audience that bridges your platforms. When done right, your website and social media will work together to build your brand, engage your audience, and drive results.

Got any other tips for integrating social media into a website? Share them below—we’d love to hear your ideas!

by Scarlett Darbyshire

The Ultimate Guide to Protecting Children on Social Media

In today’s digital age, social media is a part of everyday life, even for children. While these platforms can offer opportunities for creativity, connection, and learning, they also pose risks, from cyberbullying to inappropriate content and online predators. As a parent or guardian, protecting children on social media is essential, and this guide will show you how.

1. Understand the Platforms

Each social media platform has its own risks and benefits.

  • Why it Matters: Knowing how platforms work helps you guide your child safely.
  • What to Do:
    • Learn about the platforms your child uses (e.g., Instagram, TikTok, Snapchat).
    • Check their privacy policies and age requirements (most require users to be 13+).

Pro Tip: Create your own account to explore the platform and understand its features.

2. Set Age-Appropriate Boundaries

Not all social media is suitable for all ages.

  • Why it Matters: Younger children are more vulnerable to online dangers.
  • What to Do:
    • Delay social media use until your child is mature enough to handle it.
    • Consider kid-friendly platforms like YouTube Kids or Messenger Kids for younger users.

3. Prioritize Privacy Settings

Privacy settings are your first line of defense.

  • Why it Matters: They help protect your child’s personal information.
  • What to Do:
    • Set accounts to private so only approved followers can see posts.
    • Turn off location sharing on apps and photos.
    • Disable friend suggestions to prevent strangers from finding their profile.

4. Monitor Their Activity

Staying involved in your child’s online world is critical.

  • Why it Matters: It helps you catch red flags early.
  • What to Do:
    • Periodically review their posts, messages, and friends list.
    • Use parental control apps to monitor usage (e.g., Bark, Qustodio, or Net Nanny).
    • Have an open agreement to check their accounts together.

Tip: Frame monitoring as a collaborative effort to keep them safe, not as spying.

5. Educate Them on Online Dangers

Children need to understand the risks of social media.

  • Why it Matters: Awareness helps them make better decisions online.
  • What to Do:
    • Talk about cyberbullying, scams, and the risks of oversharing.
    • Explain that strangers online may not be who they claim to be.
    • Teach them to recognize phishing links and suspicious messages.

Example: Encourage them to report or block any uncomfortable interactions immediately.

6. Encourage Responsible Sharing

Not everything needs to be posted online.

  • Why it Matters: Oversharing can compromise privacy and safety.
  • What to Do:
    • Teach them to avoid sharing personal information like their full name, address, or school.
    • Discourage posting real-time updates that reveal their location.
    • Review their photos to ensure they don’t unintentionally give away sensitive details.

7. Promote Healthy Online Habits

Balance is key when it comes to social media use.

  • Why it Matters: Too much screen time can harm mental health and development.
  • What to Do:
    • Set screen time limits for social media use.
    • Encourage offline activities like sports, hobbies, or family time.
    • Teach them to take breaks and avoid comparing themselves to others online.

8. Be a Safe Space for Them

Your child should feel comfortable coming to you with online issues.

  • Why it Matters: If they’re afraid of punishment, they might hide problems.
  • What to Do:
    • Respond calmly if they make a mistake online.
    • Praise them for reporting concerning interactions or content.
    • Let them know you’re their ally, not their adversary.

9. Stay Up to Date on Trends

Social media trends can sometimes be harmful or dangerous.

  • Why it Matters: Being aware helps you step in when necessary.
  • What to Do:
    • Follow news about social media challenges or trends.
    • Talk to your child about the potential dangers of participating in viral challenges.

Example: Discuss recent trends like the “Blackout Challenge” and why it’s dangerous.

10. Lead by Example

Children mimic the behavior of adults.

  • Why it Matters: Your habits shape how they approach social media.
  • What to Do:
    • Be mindful of what you post and how you use social media.
    • Model good online etiquette and boundaries.
    • Limit your own screen time to emphasize balance.

Red Flags to Watch For

Be alert for these signs that something might be wrong:

  • Sudden changes in mood or behavior.
  • Deleting messages or hiding their screen when you’re nearby.
  • Spending excessive time online or becoming secretive about their activity.

Useful Tools for Protecting Kids Online

  • Bark: Monitors social media, texts, and emails for potential issues.
  • Qustodio: Tracks online activity and sets screen time limits.
  • Net Nanny: Filters inappropriate content and monitors social media.
  • Google Family Link: Lets you manage app downloads and set screen time limits.

Final Thoughts

Protecting your child on social media is an ongoing effort that requires communication, education, and vigilance. By staying involved and setting boundaries, you can help them enjoy the benefits of social media while minimizing the risks.

Remember: Social media safety isn’t about restricting freedom—it’s about empowering your child to navigate the online world confidently and responsibly.

Do you have tips or tools for keeping kids safe online? Share them in the comments!

by Scarlett Darbyshire

30 Days of Social Media Acts of Kindness

Brighten someone’s day, spread positivity, and create meaningful connections with this 30-day guide to acts of kindness on social media. Whether you’re an individual or a brand, these small gestures can make a big impact.

Week 1: Celebrate Others

Day 1: Write a heartfelt comment on someone’s post.
Day 2: Share a friend’s or colleague’s work and tag them.
Day 3: Recommend someone on LinkedIn for their skills.
Day 4: Shout out a small business you love.
Day 5: Tag a mentor or role model and thank them for their guidance.
Day 6: Highlight a nonprofit or charity doing amazing work.
Day 7: Post a story or tweet celebrating someone else’s success.

Week 2: Create a Ripple Effect

Day 8: Post a challenge encouraging others to spread kindness (e.g., “Tag three friends and say why you appreciate them!”).
Day 9: Start a thread or post asking people to share their favorite feel-good moment.
Day 10: Share resources that have helped you, like free e-books, templates, or advice.
Day 11: Create a list of underappreciated creators and encourage others to follow them.
Day 12: Tag someone in your industry and highlight their expertise.
Day 13: Leave a 5-star review for a product, service, or podcast you love.
Day 14: Promote someone else’s event, class, or launch.

Week 3: Spread Positivity

Day 15: Post an uplifting quote or thought of the day.
Day 16: Send a kind DM to someone who inspires you.
Day 17: Share a memory of a time someone was kind to you and tag them if possible.
Day 18: Create a gratitude post listing what you’re thankful for.
Day 19: Share an inspiring story or news article to uplift others.
Day 20: Start a conversation around acts of kindness people have received.
Day 21: Make a fun “tag your friend” post that encourages spreading positivity.

Week 4: Give Back

Day 22: Donate to a cause and share the link to inspire others to do the same.
Day 23: Offer a free resource or tutorial to help others.
Day 24: Host a small giveaway for your followers or community.
Day 25: Share an opportunity (like a job opening or scholarship) with your network.
Day 26: Collaborate with others to amplify their message or work.
Day 27: Create a post inviting people to share their dreams or goals—and cheer them on.
Day 28: Volunteer your time or skills and share your experience.

Week 5: Reflect and Inspire

Day 29: Ask your audience: “What act of kindness has inspired you recently?” and share the responses.
Day 30: Reflect on your 30 days of kindness, share your favorite moments, and encourage others to keep the positivity going.

Final Note

Kindness is contagious, especially in the digital age. By dedicating time each day to small, thoughtful actions, you can help create a positive ripple effect in your online community—and beyond.

Which act of kindness will you start with today? Let’s spread some joy together!

by Scarlett Darbyshire

The Social Media Glossary: Stuff You Need to Know

Social media is filled with jargon, acronyms, and terms that can feel overwhelming—even for seasoned marketers. Whether you’re a newbie or a pro looking for a refresher, this glossary has you covered.

General Terms

  1. Algorithm: A set of rules social media platforms use to determine what content appears in a user’s feed.
  2. Analytics: Data that shows how your social media content is performing (e.g., likes, shares, engagement rate).
  3. Audience: The group of people who follow or engage with your content.
  4. Avatar: The profile picture or graphic representing a user or brand.

Metrics and Performance

  1. Engagement: Interactions with your content, including likes, comments, shares, and clicks.
  2. Engagement Rate: A percentage measuring how actively your audience interacts with your content.
  3. Impressions: The number of times your content is displayed, regardless of whether it’s clicked.
  4. Reach: The total number of unique users who see your content.
  5. CTR (Click-Through Rate): The percentage of people who click on a link in your post compared to those who saw it.
  6. Conversion: When a user takes a desired action, like signing up for a newsletter or making a purchase.

Content Types

  1. Carousel: A post with multiple images or videos that users can swipe through.
  2. Story: Short, temporary content that disappears after 24 hours (popular on Instagram, Facebook, and Snapchat).
  3. Reels: Short, engaging videos on Instagram designed for discovery.
  4. Shorts: YouTube’s version of short, vertical videos.
  5. Live Stream: Real-time video broadcast to your audience.
  6. UGC (User-Generated Content): Content created by customers or fans that features your brand.

Engagement and Interaction

  1. Hashtag: A keyword or phrase preceded by a # symbol to categorize content and make it discoverable.
  2. Tagging: Mentioning another user or brand by including their handle in your post.
  3. Mention: When a user refers to another account in their content.
  4. DM (Direct Message): A private message between users on a platform.
  5. Reply: Responding to a comment or post.
  6. Share: Reposting someone else’s content to your feed or stories.

Social Media Strategies

  1. Content Calendar: A schedule that outlines what you’ll post and when.
  2. Influencer Marketing: Collaborating with social media personalities to promote your brand.
  3. Organic Content: Posts that aren’t boosted or paid for—just good ol’ natural reach.
  4. Paid Ads: Sponsored posts or advertisements that brands pay to promote.
  5. Call-to-Action (CTA): A prompt encouraging users to take a specific action, like “Click here” or “Buy now.”

Platform-Specific Terms

  1. Pin (Pinterest): Saving a piece of content to a virtual board for later reference.
  2. Tweet (X/Twitter): A post or update shared on X (formerly Twitter).
  3. Retweet (X/Twitter): Sharing someone else’s tweet to your followers.
  4. Snap (Snapchat): A photo or video message sent on Snapchat.
  5. Duet (TikTok): Creating a side-by-side video with another user’s TikTok content.

Trending and Viral Terms

  1. Trendjacking: Leveraging popular trends to boost your content’s visibility.
  2. Going Viral: When a post rapidly gains popularity and spreads across platforms.
  3. Challenge: A user-generated trend encouraging others to participate in an activity.

Technical Terms

  1. Alt Text: Descriptions added to images for accessibility and SEO.
  2. Pixel: A piece of code that tracks user behavior on your website from social media.
  3. SEO (Search Engine Optimization): Optimizing content to improve its visibility in search engines.
  4. API (Application Programming Interface): Technology that lets platforms communicate, like scheduling tools.

Community Management

  1. Moderation: Monitoring and managing comments, messages, or content.
  2. Troll: A user who posts inflammatory or off-topic comments to provoke others.
  3. Shadowban: When a platform restricts the visibility of your content without informing you.

Advertising Terms

  1. CPC (Cost Per Click): How much you pay for each click on a paid ad.
  2. CPM (Cost Per Thousand Impressions): The cost for 1,000 impressions of your ad.
  3. Lookalike Audience: A group of users similar to your existing audience, targeted for ads.
  4. Retargeting: Showing ads to users who have previously interacted with your website or content.

Emerging and Fun Terms

  1. Finsta: A “fake” Instagram account often used for more casual or private posts.
  2. Micro-Influencer: An influencer with a smaller, niche audience but high engagement.
  3. Dark Social: Shares that happen privately via DMs, email, or messaging apps.
  4. Vanity Metrics: Numbers like likes or followers that look good but don’t necessarily indicate success.

Accessibility and Inclusivity

  1. Captioning: Adding text to videos for users who are deaf or hard of hearing.
  2. Keyboard Navigation: Designing platforms to be navigable without a mouse, essential for accessibility.

Final Thoughts

This glossary should demystify social media jargon and make it easier to navigate the digital marketing world. Whether you’re drafting your next CTA or optimizing your carousel post, you’re now armed with the lingo to make it happen like a pro.

Did we miss your favorite term? Drop it in the comments so we can add it to the list!

by Scarlett Darbyshire

Why Your Business Doesn’t Have to Jump on Every Social Media Trend

Let’s talk about trends. They’re flashy, fun, and promise to make your business go viral if you just hop on at the right time. But here’s the truth: not every trend is meant for your business.

In fact, chasing trends like a cat chasing a laser pointer can leave your brand looking confused, desperate, or—worst of all—forgettable. So, before you start planning your next #IceBucketChallenge or lip-sync reel, let’s explore why skipping some trends might actually be the best thing for your business.

1. Not Every Trend Fits Your Brand

You’ve probably seen brands that have no business dabbling in a trend trying to force it. (Remember when that tax preparation company jumped on TikTok dances? Yeah, still cringing.)

  • Reality Check: Just because everyone else is doing it doesn’t mean it aligns with your values, tone, or audience.
  • Pro Tip: Stick to what makes sense for your brand. If you sell legal services, you don’t need to jump on a trend about funny parenting fails.

2. Your Audience Might Not Care

Trends are often designed to grab attention, but is it the right attention? Ask yourself:

  • Does this trend appeal to my target audience?
  • Will it help me achieve my business goals, or is it just a flashy distraction?

Example: If your customers are mostly professionals over 50, they probably don’t care about the latest Gen Z meme.

3. Trends Burn Out Fast

By the time you’ve planned, filmed, and posted your on-trend content, it’s possible that the trend is already so last week. Social media moves at lightning speed, and hopping on trends can feel like running on a hamster wheel.

  • Alternative: Focus on evergreen content—things that will still be relevant next month, next year, or even next decade.

4. Trying Too Hard Can Backfire

There’s nothing worse than looking like the “cool” parent trying to impress teenagers. (Yes, we’re looking at you, brands that use “slay” unironically.)

  • Risk: If your attempt at a trend feels forced, it can make your business seem out of touch or inauthentic.
  • Solution: Stick to trends that feel natural and authentic to your brand voice.

5. It Drains Your Resources

Creating trendy content takes time, energy, and money—resources that might be better spent elsewhere.

  • Instead of investing in the latest trend, focus on building a consistent social media presence. Quality > novelty every time.

6. You Risk Losing Your Brand Identity

If you’re constantly chasing trends, your followers might start to wonder: Who are you, really?

  • Reality Check: Trends come and go, but your brand’s voice, mission, and values are what keep customers coming back.

7. Standing Out Matters More Than Blending In

Trends are popular because everyone is doing them. But do you really want your business to look like everyone else’s?

  • Alternative: Create original content that showcases what makes your business unique. You’ll stand out more than if you’re just one more voice in a crowded trend.

8. Trends Don’t Equal Results

Going viral might feel like a win, but does it translate to actual sales, loyalty, or growth?

  • Reality: A trendy video might get likes and views, but it doesn’t guarantee meaningful engagement or ROI.

When Should You Jump on a Trend?

Of course, not all trends are bad. Here’s how to decide if one’s worth your time:

  1. It aligns with your brand values and voice.
  2. Your audience is engaging with it.
  3. You have the resources to do it well.
  4. It’s fun, relevant, and feels authentic.

Example: If you’re a bakery and there’s a trend about unusual cupcake flavors, go for it! But if you’re a CPA firm… maybe sit that one out.

Final Thoughts: Trends Come and Go, But Your Brand Is Forever

Jumping on every trend might make your social media feel busy, but it won’t necessarily make it better. Focus on staying true to your brand, creating content that resonates with your audience, and leaving the FOMO behind.

Remember: your business doesn’t need to be trendy to be successful—it just needs to be authentic.

What’s the weirdest trend you’ve seen a business try to pull off? Share your favourites in the comments!