< Back to Glossary
video icon Marketing Terms

Trend

A trend is something online that has gained popularity quickly.

Trend Meaning

A trend is something online that has gained popularity quickly. Trends can emerge quickly and gain popularity over a short period, influencing social media conversations and user-generated content. Trends can include

What are Trends on Social Media

Trends can include:

  • Viral Challenges: Remember the “Ice Bucket Challenge” or the “Flip the Switch” challenge? These online activities encourage users to participate by creating and sharing their own videos, often with a humorous twist.
  • Hashtag Movements: Hashtags like #BlackLivesMatter or #MeToo have become rallying points for social movements, raising awareness and sparking important conversations online.
  • Dance Crazes: Short, catchy trending songs can become dance routines that go viral on platforms like TikTok, with users filming themselves replicating the moves and adding their own creative flair. A recent example is the “Buss It Down” challenge.
  • Memes: Images, videos, or phrases that spread rapidly online, often accompanied by humorous captions or edits. Popular meme formats like “Distracted Boyfriend” or “Woman Yelling at a Cat” can be adapted to fit various situations.
  • Trending Topics: Current events, news stories, or celebrity gossip can spark widespread online discussions. Users share their opinions, engage in debates, and create content related to the trending topic.
  • Filter Effects: Social media platforms constantly roll out new filters that alter users’ appearances or add special effects to photos and videos. These filters can become trendy, with users experimenting and sharing their creations.

How to Identify Social Media Trends

Staying ahead of social media trends can be a valuable asset for creators and businesses. Here’s how to spot them:

  • Social listening tools: Utilize social listening tools that track trending hashtags, topics, and keywords to identify what’s gaining traction online.
  • Social media analytics: Analyze your own social media insights to see what content resonates most with your audience and identify potential trends.
  • Following industry influencers: Pay attention to the content and topics shared by thought leaders and influencers in your niche to see what trends they’re discussing.
  • Exploring social media platforms: Regularly browse popular platforms like X, TikTok, and YouTube to see what content is generating buzz and engagement.

Why Are Trends Important in Social Media?

Trends offer several advantages for social media users:

  • Increased Engagement: Creating content around trending topics can lead to higher visibility and engagement with your posts.
  • Staying Relevant: Aligning your content with current trends demonstrates you’re aware of what’s happening online and can resonate with your audience.
  • Spark New Ideas: Trends can inspire creative content ideas and help you reach new audiences interested in the same topics.

 

Join an exclusive community of 1 million+ marketers.

Get social media insider social media hints, tips & hacks straight to your inbox.

*I agree to join Plann’s mailing list and can unsubscribe at any time.

Stay In the know & grow your business

See how easy it is to build and grow a brand you’re proud of when we work together.