Top 10 Social Media Trends That Defined 2024

2024 has been a whirlwind year for social media, with dramatic shifts in user behaviour, platform dynamics, and technological advancements. If you’re looking to conquer 2025, you need a solid grasp of the social media trends that dominated this year. 

This guide will not only illuminate those trends but also equip you with actionable insights to help your brand elevate its social media game and achieve unprecedented success.

1. Telegram’s Rise

I’ve been using Telegram since like 2018 but in 2024, I saw a flood of new users to the app. And the platform stats confirm the same. Fueled by the crypto community’s embrace of its privacy-focused features and the platform’s openness to bots, games, and automation, the platform experienced explosive growth.

Brands should consider establishing a presence on Telegram to tap into its highly engaged communities, particularly if your target audience aligns with the platform’s demographics (crypto enthusiasts, tech-savvy users, etc.). 

You can also use Telegram’s bot functionality for automated customer support, content delivery, and interactive experiences. There’s also the Telegram Wallet for potential monetization opportunities and community engagement.

2. AI Everywhere

AI was literally everywhere on social media in 2024. While generative AI tools like ChatGPT started making waves in late 2022, 2024 was the year AI truly permeated every facet of social media. 

From AI-powered content creation and scheduling tools to sophisticated social listening platforms and hyper-personalised ad targeting, AI has become indispensable. (Let’s not even talk about the AI auto-responses to messages)

Going into 2025, brands looking to jump on this social media trend should embrace AI-powered tools to streamline their social media management. Explore AI-driven content creation platforms. Leverage AI for social listening. Experiment with AI chatbots. 

3. The Demand for Authentic Content 

The proliferation of AI-generated content in 2024 is another top social media trend for 2024. Ironically, the rise of AI content is what fueled an even stronger demand for authenticity. 

Consumers, wary of increasingly polished and potentially artificial content, craved genuine human connection and real-life experiences. User-generated content (UGC) became the antidote. 

Going forward, brands should also add UGC as a core element of their social media strategy. Encourage customer participation through interactive campaigns, contests, and challenges. Showcase real people and genuine experiences to build trust and foster a sense of community.

4. X (Formerly Twitter) Thrives

Despite predictions of its demise following Musk’s controversial subscription model, policy changes, and Meta’s launch of Threads, Twitter has continued to thrive in 2024. Creators flocked to the platform, enticed by the potential for monetization. 

Brands should maintain an active presence on Twitter to engage in real-time conversations, participate in trending topics, and connect with their audience. Explore Twitter’s creator monetization options if relevant to your brand.

5. Short-Form Video’s Undisputed Reign

Short-form videos continued their dominance in 2024, with TikTok and Instagram Reels leading the charge. Other platforms like LinkedIn have also jumped on the social media trend. The format’s addictive nature and ability to capture attention solidified its position as a core content strategy. 

Brands should invest in creating high-quality, engaging short videos for these platforms. Experiment with different video styles and formats to capture attention and convey your brand message effectively.

6. Social Media Customer Support Became the Norm

Customers increasingly relied on social media for customer support in 2024. Brands need to adapt by prioritising social listening and investing in dedicated resources to address customer queries and concerns promptly. 

The rise of “cancel culture” highlights the importance of handling customer interactions with sensitivity and professionalism. Negative online experiences can quickly escalate and damage brand’s reputation. Ensure your team is equipped to handle customer interactions with care, transparency, and a commitment to resolving issues effectively.

Related: Outsourcing Social Media Customer Service: The Key to Happier Customers

7. Social Commerce Takes Center Stage

Social commerce continued its ascent in 2024, with platforms integrating shopping features and streamlining purchasing processes. Brands should optimize their social media presence for social commerce, ensuring seamless product discovery and consumer purchase experiences.

Plan shoppable posts, in-app checkout options, and interactive shopping features to maximise sales and capitalise on this growing social media trend.

8. Micro-Influencers Rise to Prominence

While celebrity endorsements still hold value, 2024 saw a significant shift towards micro-influencers. These individuals offer authenticity and niche expertise with their smaller but highly engaged audiences. 

Brands should explore collaborations with micro-influencers who align with their target audience and brand values. This approach can foster deeper connections with consumers and drive higher engagement rates.

9. Live Streaming for Connection

Live Streaming became a powerful tool for real-time engagement in 2024. Brands should use live streaming to foster deeper connections with their audiences.

Use live streaming for product demonstrations, Q&A sessions, behind-the-scenes content, and interactive events. This authentic and engaging format can build stronger relationships and foster a sense of community.

10. The Rise of Automation

Social media management became increasingly reliant on automation in 2024. Brands should embrace automation tools to streamline tasks, optimise content delivery, and improve overall productivity. 

Use scheduling tools, content curation platforms, and social listening dashboards to maximise efficiency and free up time for strategic planning and creative content development.

Conclusion

2024 was a year of reckoning for social media. Platforms rose and fell, AI disrupted the status quo, and authenticity emerged as the ultimate currency. 

As you plan your 2025 strategy, remember to embrace the power of genuine engagement, prioritize authentic content, and stay agile. With a keen eye on social media trends and a commitment to innovation, you can unlock the true potential of social media and propel your brand to new heights.

Need a social media partner? GrowTally is always here to help you. From planning our strategy to designing your creative assets, managing your accounts, and engaging with your customers, our experts have got you covered.

Contact us today to get a free consultation.