Happy New Year! If you think 2025’s marketing trends are all about chatbots and AI-generated content, think again. While those may still be part of the mix, this year’s marketing trends are taking a turn for the dynamic, the unexpected, and—yes—the downright fun. In this post, I’ll continue build on the 2024 trends by discussing 10 things I see happening this year and how they’ll build onto last year’s trends.

Micro-Influencers with a Mega-Impact

While celebrities still have their spotlight, micro-influencers are stealing the show across social media. These niche experts—with followings in the thousands, not millions—bring authenticity that audiences adore. Brands are flocking to these influencers for collaborations that feel more like friendships than advertisements. Bonus points if your influencer’s pet has its own fan base.

Speak Up with Voice Search Optimization:

Typing is so 2020. With voice search skyrocketing, brands are optimizing for queries like “Hey, what’s the best pizza near me?” This means adopting conversational keywords, creating natural-sounding content, and maybe even brushing up on your digital linguistics. Hey Google, take note.

Shoppable Everything

In 2025, if you can see it, you can shop it. Social media platforms, video streaming apps, and even augmented reality experiences are becoming seamless shopping hubs. Spot a dress in your favorite influencer’s TikTok? Buy it without ever needing to leave the app.

Gamification Strikes Back

Why just sell when you can play? Gamification is bringing an interactive twist to marketing campaigns, with quizzes, challenges, and rewards that make customers feel like they’re leveling up IRL. Plus, who doesn’t love a little dopamine boost with their purchase?

Purpose-Driven Marketing (But Make It Real)

Consumers are demanding more than just products—they want values, too. The catch? Those values need to be genuine. Whether it’s sustainability, diversity, or community support, brands in 2025 are putting their money where their mission is. Performative allyship? Out. Meaningful action? In.

AR and VR Go Mainstream

What once felt futuristic is now fully integrated. From virtual try-ons (like what we’re doing at Lensabl) to immersive storytelling, augmented and virtual reality are redefining how brands connect with customers. Why just read about a product when you can step into a virtual showroom?

Content Recycling: Old is Gold

Content creators are getting thrifty. Instead of churning out new ideas daily, they’re upcycling older content into fresh formats. A 2018 blog post that drove engagement? It’s now a short-form video series. That webinar from last year? A podcast mini-series. Efficiency has never been more creative.

Zero-Party Data Takes the Stage

Privacy is the name of the game, and zero-party data (data customers willingly provide) is the MVP. Brands are earning trust by asking for preferences directly, creating a win-win where customers feel valued, and marketers get their insights ethically.

AI, But Make It Human

Yes, AI is still very much here—but it’s evolving. The best AI-powered marketing tools in 2025 feel intuitive and human, not robotic. Think AI-driven email campaigns that genuinely sound like they were written by your favorite witty friend. The secret sauce? Human creativity steering the ship and ensuring the brand’s voice remains consistent.