Every January brings a flood of social media predictions, trend lists and “must-do” tactics. Some are useful. Many are noisy.
As a business marketer, your goal is to focus on the strategies that drive trust and visibility — not to blindly chase every new feature and fad.
We’re heading into a brand-new year, but social media continues to be one of your most powerful marketing tools. So, if you’re looking for some tactics to try in 2026, here are our best suggestions.
What to Try in 2026
1. Optimize for Social Media Search
Social platforms have evolved into full-blown search engines. Users are increasingly turning to Instagram, TikTok and YouTube to research products, read reviews, watch demos and validate their purchase decisions.
In 2026, social media search optimization should be part of your core strategy. That means using clear, descriptive captions, thoughtful keyword placement and alt text where available, as well as spoken keywords in video content.
Don’t bury your content behind vague language. If your audience is searching for answers, you need to be easy to find.
2. Use AI to Streamline (NOT Replace) Content Creation
Love it or hate it, artificial intelligence isn’t going anywhere. And those once-experimental tools are becoming more practical by the day. When used correctly, AI can help you brainstorm post ideas, generate captions, repurpose long-form content and create first drafts faster.
The key is to use it as a productivity accelerator rather than a replacement for human insight. Your brand voice, expertise and perspective still matter. The most effective brands use AI to save time, then refine AI-created content with real experience and intent.
3. Prioritize Video That Educates
Short-form video isn’t new, but its role has matured. Educational videos (think quick explainers, behind-the-scenes looks and “here’s how it works” content) continue to outperform purely promotional posts.
You don’t need studio-quality production. What matters is usefulness and relevance. If your content helps someone understand a problem or feel more confident about a decision, it’s doing its job.
4. Build Content Around Real Client Questions
Your inbox, DMs and sales conversations are veritable goldmines when it comes to content ideas. High-performing social strategies are grounded in real questions real people ask.
Turn comment questions into posts, short videos or carousel content. This approach keeps your messaging aligned with your audience’s needs while positioning your business as helpful and trustworthy rather than pushy and salesy.
5. Do More With Less
Being present on every single platform isn’t a requirement. Being consistent on the platforms you choose to use absolutely is.
Businesses with limited marketing budgets often see better results by focusing on one or two platforms where their audience is already active rather than spreading themselves thin across five or six channels. More succinctly: Depth beats breadth.
Choose your platforms strategically and show up with purpose.
6. Reuse and Recycle
One strong piece of content can fuel weeks’ worth of social posts. Blogs become videos, videos become quotes, quotes become carousels, and the cycle goes on.
The goal isn’t to copy and paste. It’s to adapt content to fit how people prefer to consume information on each platform. This helps you save time while reinforcing key messages across different channels.
7. Highlight Social Proof
Testimonials, reviews and user-generated content continue to influence buying decisions. Your audience wants proof, but they want authenticity, too.
Share real feedback in context. Highlight individual stories rather than just star ratings. When possible, show how clients felt before and after working with you. Subtle social proof builds more trust than loud, braggy “claims.”
8. Design for Scrolling
Social media is a whole destination, not just a traffic driver. While links still have their place, many users want answers without leaving the platform.
Your content needs to stand on its own, with clear visuals, concise messaging and captions that deliver value without requiring a click. When users trust your in-feed content, they’re more likely to take the next step later.
9. Measure What Actually Matters
Vanity metrics have their place, but they can’t be your only signal. This year, focus on engagement quality, saves, shares, comments and conversations.
Pay attention to what sparks dialogue and repeat engagement. At the end of the day, those signals matter more than raw reach.
Let’s Get Social in 2026!
This year, social media success isn’t going to come from chasing trends. It will come from clarity, consistency, and smart, thoughtful use of available tools. By focusing on meaningful content, you can build a social presence that supports real growth throughout the year ahead!
Do you need a hand starting the new year off on the right foot? Bring Mischa Communications on board. Let’s make a plan for 2026!