Social Media Immediate Future

Social Media

As a graphic designer in social media, your job often feels like a race against the clock. You need eye-catching visuals, trending audio, slick motion graphics, and impactful sound effects, and you need them all for yesterday. But while speed is essential, cutting corners on copyright is never an option.

If you work in social media marketing, you have learnt that the first two seconds of a video aren’t just important, they’re everything. In marketing, we talk a lot about the idea of a “hook”, something that grabs your audience’s attention right away and pulls them in before they even…

Instagram is quietly experimenting with a new feature: lockable posts that can only be viewed with a code. Spotted on the Instagram Design profile, these posts display a blurred image and a prompt to “Enter secret code.” Once entered, the content unlocks. At first glance, it might…

Social media is a double-edged sword when it comes to creativity. On one hand, it’s a relentless scroll of comparison and noise. On the other, it’s an endless well of inspiration, if you know where to look. The key is curating your feed to work for you, not against you.

Why are brands waking up to the DTC power of social? Since the pandemic upended how we shop, the social media feed has quietly become the new high street. But this isn’t just about adding shoppable links to pretty posts. Social commerce is now a full-on growth…

Working in a social media agency means juggling multiple clients, platforms, and deadlines, all while keeping your designs fresh and engaging. As a graphic designer, staying efficient isn’t just helpful it’s essential. Here are 10 tips to streamline your workflow and stay ahead: 1. Save a List of Go-To Resource…

Meta’s Twitter clone, Threads, is testing a new feature that would let users replicate their X (formerly Twitter) follows on the platform. Sounds useful, right? Well, not so fast—the process isn’t exactly seamless. According to app researcher Alessandro Paluzzi, Threads’ “Creators from X” tool will require users to…

Your business invests time and effort into networking events, conferences, and industry gatherings. But what happens after the event? Too often, valuable photos and videos sit unused when they could be transformed into engaging content that keeps your audience engaged long after the event ends. That’s where expert graphic design…

Why Social Search is the Future of Digital Discovery It’s happened. Social media isn’t just stealing Google’s lunch, it’s throwing the whole search game into a blender and serving it up as a trending TikTok sound. For years, brands obsessed over traditional SEO (long-tail keywords, backlinks, meta…

If you’re trying to crack the TikTok code, video length is probably on your mind. Should you keep it short and snappy, or go for longer, more in-depth content? The latest data gives us some clues and the results might surprise you. Ultra-short videos (5-10 seconds): quick…

Visibility now comes with a price tag The last scraps of organic reach have crumbled, leaving brands and creators staring at their engagement metrics in horror. If you’re not paying, you’re not playing. For years, brands have clung to the idea that social media could still drive…

There’s something undeniably magical about creativity. It’s that spark, that flicker of imagination, that turns the ordinary into something extraordinary. This International Women’s Day, I want to take a moment to celebrate the women who’ve shaped our world with their artistry, innovation, and sheer determination to make their mark. From…

Brace yourself. March is another tsunami of changes. If you thought last month’s approach was still solid, think again. Instagram has changed what really gets reach, Facebook is quietly suffocating business pages, and AI is creeping into every platform, whether we like it or not (we see…

Brands want visibility but not at any cost. The last thing you need is your ad showing up next to controversial or harmful content. That’s where brand safety comes in. Why brand safety matters Social platforms are unpredictable. One minute, your ad is seamlessly placed in a relevant feed; the…

Do you remember that beautiful piece of visual content that grabbed your attention on LinkedIn the other day? It was not the most beautiful piece of design you have ever seen there, yet it had a lot of engagement right, but why? Have you spent a moment asking yourself how…

The way we shop has changed massively, and TikTok is leading the charge. The recent report, Commerce Redefined, dives into how the platform is shaking up e-commerce by blending entertainment, authenticity, and seamless shopping experiences. With discovery-driven commerce and user-generated content at…

TikTok’s ROI boom, AI-powered ads, and brand safety in the spotlight TikTok is delivering serious ROI, AI is running the ad game, and brands are tightening control over where their content appears. Meanwhile, X is pushing deeper into AI-driven advertising, and Snapchat is refining brand safety measures to…

Let’s face it, social media is a visual playground. If your posts are looking a bit meh, it’s time to jazz them up! Whether you’re a small business owner, a marketer, or just someone who loves creating content, the right design tools can turn your social media game from bland…

Designing for social media can feel overwhelming with all the trends, algorithms, and platform updates constantly shifting. But at its core, great design still comes down to the basics: clarity, consistency, and creativity. This blog will take you back to the essentials of social media design while helping you adapt…

Meta’s selling more ads, TikTok’s selling more stuff & users have all the power Meta is flogging more ad space, TikTok is coming for your wallet, and Instagram is sneakily reshaping how brands tell their stories. Meanwhile, AI is worming its way into your DMs, Threads is…

You can have the best campaign, the smartest strategy, and the flashiest creative, but if your audience doesn’t trust you, none of it matters. In B2B marketing, trust is everything. It’s what turns a casual buyer into a loyal customer, a one-off project into a long-term partnership, and a client…

Another week, another algorithm shake-up. If your engagement has dropped or your content is disappearing into the void, it’s not you. It’s the platforms. AI is tightening its grip, engagement metrics are shifting, and the old tricks won’t cut it anymore. Here’s what has changed. Facebook…

Ah, the retro aesthetic. It’s like finding an old vinyl record in your attic – instantly nostalgic, undeniably cool, and somehow still relevant. In the world of social media design, retro aesthetics have made a triumphant comeback, and honestly, we’re here for it. Whether it’s the neon glow of the…

The ads are here, now what? Meta’s just begun to roll out ads on Threads (USA and Japan), and the reactions are mixed. Users are grumbling, advertisers are cautiously eyeing up the new real estate, and marketers? We’re here wondering if this is the next big opportunity…

Marketing is full of big ideas and bold predictions, but the reality is that most campaigns struggle because the fundamentals are not in place. That is exactly what we tackled in a LinkedIn Live with Tejal Patel, Scott Stockwell and me, Katy. These are experts who have led marketing at…

Pinterest is making moves. The platform has announced a slew of ad updates for 2025, pushing harder into video, automation, and shopping integrations. With an active user base of 465 million, it’s a space brands can’t ignore. But is it worth your ad spend? Let’s break…

From Instagram’s Trial Reels to the rise of nano-influencers and the dominance of short-form video, staying ahead in 2025 is all about adapting fast. Instagram’s next evolution Instagram is making bold moves to keep creators and marketers hooked, and Reels are at the centre of its strategy.

If you’ve ever scrolled through social media and found yourself staring at a stunning plate of food for far too long, then you’ll know the power of a great food post. But let’s be honest: not all food photos are created equal. Some make you drool whilst others make you…

If you work with social media, you must have noticed it by now: Instagram has changed its phone grid size from 1:1 to 4:5 ratio. You might already been despairing about it, but here are some reflections to take under consideration. The 4:5 aspect ratio offers more vertical space, allowing…

Let’s talk about short-form video because if you’re not already all-in, you’re missing out. This isn’t just another shiny trend. Short-form videos are the real deal, delivering incredible engagement, boosting product discovery, and driving conversions like no other format. The stats are jaw-dropping: short-form videos generate 2.5x more engagement than…

Short-form video is dominating social content. With TikTok holding its ground in the U.S., and YouTube Shorts, Instagram Reels, and Snapchat Spotlight innovating at breakneck speed, the opportunities have never been greater. Or riskier. But it’s not just about the platform. Competition is stepping up and there…

It’s tempting to focus on the latest trends and shiny innovations. But here’s the truth: without a strong foundation, even the most advanced strategies will fail. That’s why revisiting and mastering the basics is more important than ever. The numbers speak volumes Did you know that organisations with aligned…

TikTok’s future in the U.S. remains uncertain, with the platform facing potential legal restrictions over national security concerns. In 2024, TikTok’s engagement rates dropped by 35% (SocialInsider), averaging 2.65%, but it remains one of the most ROI-positive platforms for marketers. This duality highlights the critical need…

As the cheese fog settles and the calendar flips to January, many of us feel an itch—a restless desire to start afresh, reinvent ourselves, or simply shake off the cobwebs of the past year. It’s not just about resolutions (though we’ll get to those later) but something deeper: a creative reset. A chance to clear the slate, find our spark, and move forward with a little more purpose—or at least with fewer regrets about how many mince pies we devoured in December.

Colour is more than just a visual element; it’s a powerful tool influencing emotions, perceptions, and behaviours. In B2B marketing, where trust, professionalism, and clear communication are paramount, the strategic use of colour can make a significant impact on how a brand is perceived and how effectively it engages its…

Focus on what works, skip what doesn’t Social media can be overwhelming, with endless tools, trends, and promises of quick wins. But this year doesn’t have to be about doing more. It’s about doing what works. By focusing on strategies that deliver real results, you’ll save time, energy, and maybe…

Hey there, social media enthusiasts! As we kick off 2025, the digital world is buzzing with new trends that are reshaping how we connect, engage, and grow our brands online. Staying on top of these trends isn’t just smart – it’s essential if you want to stand out in today’s…

The festive season is the perfect time to take a break, unwind, and recharge after a year of hard work, but it’s also a moment to feel the creative pulse around you. As you know, inspiration can strike at the most unexpected moments. So, how can you enjoy your well-deserved…

Subscribe on LinkedIn Platforms are evolving fast, but not all changes are worth a marketer’s time. Between AI tools promising creativity on steroids, platform updates throwing curveballs, and users craving more authenticity, it’s starting to feel like social media is finally maturing. But are brands keeping up?…

Ho, ho, ho! Christmas is almost here, and you know what that means: cosying up with a hot chocolate and diving into this year’s best festive adverts. The 2024 Christmas campaigns are out in full force, bringing all the feels, laughs, and festive cheer. Let’s take a look at some…

Links are a double-edged sword in social media. They can drive traffic, but they also risk cutting your engagement. Platforms are rewriting the rules to keep users on their apps. And it’s changing how links perform in posts. The challenges with links in social posts Algorithms deprioritise external links (I…

Social media is moving fast, and B2B marketing is right in the middle of the action. The rules are shifting, and what worked before just won’t cut it anymore. Staying relevant means watching for what’s next and making it work for you. AI is no longer just a nice-to-have. It’s…

Subscribe on LinkedIn While most marketers chase Millennials and Gen Z, the “forgotten generation” is quietly making waves on social media—and not just on Facebook. Think TikTok, Reddit, and Pinterest. Generation X (born between 1965 and 1980) is an interesting demographic. Ok, so we know…

Subscribe on LinkedIn Let’s face it, social media is a hot mess right now. Platforms are ditching old features, testing new ones that might flop, and making changes that confuse more than they help. From Instagram scrapping hashtag follows to TikTok strong-arming creators into its shop, the…

As we get closer and closer to 2025, it’s time to look around and see what will be on trend in the new year. Staying ahead of trends can elevate your brand’s presence, drive engagement, and increase ROI. Here are the key design shifts to watch: 1. AI-Driven Creativity AI-powered tools…

The social media world never sits still, and as 2025 edges closer, we’re looking at some big shifts that could shape how brands show up online. From AI wizardry to shopping without leaving your favourite apps, here’s what’s coming to a platform near you—and why it matters. Facebook Gets Smarter…

When it comes to shooting food products for a social media campaign, every detail counts. From creating visually appealing content to aligning with the client’s vision, it’s a balance of artistry and efficiency. Here you will find some tips for planning and executing a successful food product shoot.

Ah, colour theory—where art meets psychology and gives your feed some much-needed injection of life Whether you want to be calm and collected, bold and sassy, or somewhere in between, choosing the right colours can set the perfect tone. Here’s a snappy guide to making colour work for you.

LinkedIn isn’t just doing well—it’s absolutely crushing it. Microsoft’s latest report shows that LinkedIn is not only attracting new members by the millions but racking up engagement that other platforms can only dream of—we’re talking 985 million members. Yep,…

With Halloween behind us, it is the perfect time to discuss how to switch between autumn content and the festive, cosy vibes of winter and Christmas. Social media marketing is the place where creativity, planning, and agility come together to drive brand success. To maximize your reach and engagement, a…

Everyone has something worth saying. Meta’s Threads platform has new educational tools that can help you say it. Whether you’re struggling to grow your audience or just trying to figure out the best posting strategy, Threads offers a refreshing way to connect. Make It Snappy We all know consistency matters,…

Creating high-quality, visually appealing designs in the blink of an eye is what all clients expect nowadays, but can we humans keep up and deliver? Meeting the demand for constant content without compromising quality can be challenging, AI-powered tools offer quick solutions but relying on them too heavily can lead…

Halloween season is upon us again—the time of year when brands get to dust off their creativity, throw in a dash of spookiness, and unleash some of their most spooktacular ideas. So, grab your Haribo star mix, settle in, and let’s dive into some of the best (and quirkiest) Halloween campaigns of the year.

You’re scrolling through Instagram or TikTok, casually catching up on the latest trends. Amid the flurry of sponsored posts, influencer shout-outs, and carefully curated content, something catches your eye. But instead of sharing it publicly, you hit that little icon and send it directly to your…

As Halloween approaches, social media feeds are packed with festive content. Embracing seasonal design trends can push your social media marketing campaign. This spooky season offers a unique chance to engage audiences, and with minimal effort, you can increase your ROI. So, here is how effective design can transform Halloween…

Alright, let’s talk music rights. You’re running fantastic social campaigns, your brand’s content is on point, and everything’s ready to go. Then suddenly—your video is muted because of a licensing issue. Sound familiar? This year, social media platforms have been hit hard by music rights disputes, and it’s making life…

If you think you know your audience, think again. Social media audiences are evolving faster than you can say “algorithm change,” and relying on generic customer profiles just won’t cut it anymore. That’s where synthetic personas could come into play. Now, before you roll your eyes at another “silver bullet” marketing solution, hear me out. I’m not here to sell you a dream. Synthetic personas can be powerful, but let's be pragmatic – they’re not a guaranteed success and in fact may just be a fantasy.

In B2B marketing, it’s not just about generating leads-it’s about what happens afterward. Effective lead nurturing can make the difference between a warm lead that converts and one that slips through the cracks. While lead quality and conversion rates are critical, nurturing your leads throughout their buyer’s journey is what…

Grabbing attention in a split second is crucial in the social world, brands are constantly searching for fresh and innovative ways to make their content stand out. A trend that has been around for ages, but is now gaining momentum is using abstract shapes as revealing masks for visual content.

How do people really feel about brands these days? It’s not just about likes and shares—it’s about the emotions behind those interactions. Whether people are venting frustrations or singing praises, those feelings matter. So, how do different industries stack up, and what can companies do with these insights to better…

One challenge consistently sits in marketers’ lists: improving lead quality and conversion rates. According to recent reports, 54% of B2B marketers identify this as their biggest hurdle in 2023. While generating a high volume of leads is crucial, the real value lies in their quality and the…

As most of you already know, showing something is much faster than explaining it. That’s why graphic designers are increasingly tasked with creating animations to communicate ideas effectively. Whether it’s a social media post, a promotional video, or an engaging web banner, knowing how to make your animations impactful is key…

in today's blog, I thought I'd share a few of my go-to sites that I like to visit when I need a little help getting out of those creative ruts. These are the places that never fail to offer a fresh perspective, a bit of inspiration, or simply a much-needed break from whatever I'm currently working on.

In a world where meetings seem to multiply by the day, many professionals find their most valuable resource—time for deep, focused work—slipping away. A recent article in The Atlantic captured this growing concern, particularly for those in leadership roles. Since the 1990s, time spent in meetings…

Lead conversions are one metric that has remained a steady measure of success in the B2B world. There is no doubt that lead conversion is important. They provide a clear indicator of how many prospects are moving through the funnel, showing progress toward the ultimate goal of generating revenue. However,…

In today’s blog, we’re diving into the addictive world of gamification in marketing, exploring why it’s so effective, spotlighting some brands that are absolutely nailing it, and how it works alongside social media!

Influencer marketing is not just for B2C brands! B2B companies are increasingly recognising the power of influencers to drive awareness, generate leads, and establish industry authority. However, choosing the right B2B influencers requires a different approach compared to B2C. Here’s how you can identify and select the best B2B influencers…

Curious about the latest buzz in social media this week? Dive into today’s Social Snapshot to catch up on all the must-know updates and key moments you might have missed. Let’s jump right in! TikTok Messaging TikTok is upping its direct messaging game with new features like video…

It’s time for another social snapshot! Each week, we share the freshest updates from social media to keep you in the know.

Social media has changed a lot since its early days. While the platforms and tools have evolved, the core principles of engaging with audiences and delivering meaningful content remain the same. We did a podcast on the social media evolution, and today we’re diving into some key insights on…

Get ready for another social media snapshot! Each week, we bring you a summary of the latest developments to keep you updated. Here are the key highlights from the past 7 days: Meta introduces its Llama AI models Meta is taking the lead in the broader AI field by open-sourcing…

In today’s blog, we’re diving into some top tips to help designers speed up their workflows and make design life more efficient. Here’s how to streamline your process and save time.

A lot has stayed the same, but what’s new this year? ABM continues to be the foundation of successful B2B marketing. However, the emphasis now is on hyper-personalisation and precision targeting. By using advanced data analytics and AI, marketers can now create highly tailored campaigns that resonate with specific accounts.

Summer is finally here, and it’s time to kickstart your marketing efforts with a bang and sail through the rest of the year! Welcome aboard the Summer SPARK Sessions on Serious Social, where we’re looking back at some of our best podcasts plus exploring new…

TikTok isn't just for dancing and memes – it's a game-changer for businesses looking to engage and inspire people. TikTok is your secret weapon! And we have ties for you!

Effective communication is crucial for the success of social media campaigns. In this blog, we will cover ways to optimise communication among clients, marketers, and designers. Clear, concise briefs and streamlined workflows will save you time, reduce costs, and ensure high-quality results. Discus Objectives Together Start discussing and documenting with…

It’s time for another social snapshot! Each week, we share the freshest updates from social media to keep you in the know.

Happy birthday! Can you believe that Threads launched a year ago? Social media can often feel overwhelming and negative, but Threads is a space to comfortably share your thoughts and ideas. As we look back on the past year and forward to the future, it’s clear that Threads is more…

Thought leadership is a hot topic in the B2B space right now. More than anything, it is a marketing tactic to establish authority, build trust, and foster deeper customer relationships. We recently published a podcast episode, Leading from the Front, where we explore how to drive your thought leadership…

Get ready for another social media snapshot! Each week, we summarise the latest developments to keep you informed. Let’s dive into the key highlights from the last 7 days: WhatsApp tests new AI selfie generator tool Meta is introducing a new AI feature to WhatsApp: an image creation tool that…

Last week, we at IF had the absolute pleasure of attending the TRIC Awards (Television and Radio Industries Club) thanks to our wonderful client, TiVo, who graciously asked us to join them, and who also sponsored the Entertainment Award category. It was a day filled with glamour, anticipation, and a profound appreciation for the artistry that breathes life into our favourite entertainment.

We get it: growing your YouTube subscriber base can be challenging, and taking shortcuts is tempting. But here’s the reality: quick fixes won’t pay off in the long run. The top YouTube creators aren’t wasting their time and money on shady growth schemes. They’re focused on creating fantastic videos and…

Staying updated with the ever-evolving world of social media is tough at times. Explore and learn about the most recent highlights and trends right here: YouTube tests QR codes The video network is introducing QR codes for channels to enable quicker connections. It is also testing effects creation for Shorts…

When you think of social media platforms, Meta and TikTok probably come to mind first. But what about YouTube? While YouTube is primarily known as a video-sharing platform, it has been steadily incorporating more social features, transforming it into a hybrid space that brands should not ignore. Here’s why YouTube…

If you are a Creative, what is it that inspires you? When you have a new project where do you go to look for ideas? As you may have heard back in school studying physics “Nothing is created, nothing is lost, and everything is transformed”. This is also true for ideas…

Instagram is toying with the idea of video ads that you can’t skip. Much like YouTube’s ads, these Insta ads come with a timer, ticking away the seconds until you can get back to your scrolling.

As an Instagram creator, understanding the nuances of the platform’s algorithm and content strategies is crucial for maximising your reach and engagement. Recently, Instagram’s content team shared some valuable insights including a key takeaway about the optimal length for Reels. Here’s what you need to know to enhance your Instagram…

Why settle for the ordinary when you can achieve the extraordinary? Forget about those cookie-cutter social media approaches—one size certainly does not fit all. Start looking deeper into the data to unlock insights that elevate your social media presence from mundane to ✨magical✨. The future is immediate, and speed is…

Are you mentally struggling in your workplace right now? Have you lost confidence, or is your self-esteem lower than normal? If this sounds like you, let's overcome these issues together with a few tips that may help with your creativity when creating content.

The demand for visually captivating video content is higher than ever. Marketers need to produce eye-catching visuals quickly and efficiently, fortunately, advancements in mobile technology have made this possible to happen from devices that fit in our pockets. In this realm CapCut has emerged as a game-changer, empowering marketers to…

While social media platforms offer unparalleled reach and engagement, they also expose companies to the scrutiny of a sometimes very unforgiving global audience. What happens when a brand’s reputation takes a hit? Let’s explore simple strategies for brand restoration in 10 easy steps. Start with Honesty: Brands are like relationships;…

Get ready for our latest social snapshot! Each week, we gather the freshest updates from social media to keep you in the loop. Let’s jump straight into the highlights 👇 New TikTok Guide for Beauty Brands 💄 TikTok’s new guide for beauty brands offers essential tips to boost your presence…

As we are well into spring 2024, one trend that has been making waves since the beginning of the year up until now is 3D gradients. You may have noticed the subtle yet impactful shift in design across various social media platforms, since the restyling of the Instagram logo in…

Stay in the loop with the ever-changing landscape of social media updates. Explore the newest highlights right here: OpenAI is exploring fresh approaches to boost transparency in AI content As the wave of generative AI content sweeps across the internet, OpenAI is taking steps to enhance transparency. The organisation has…

Ready to take a trip down memory lane? It’s time to explore the world of throwbacks and discover how you can infuse some retro charm into your brand’s TikTok presence. Let’s check out the vibes that are turning heads. Tracking Trends Feeling nostalgic? You’re not alone! Breaking down why throwbacks…

It’s 2024, and the world of Fintech is buzzing with new trends, insights, and challenges. As the Fintech B2B marketing conference revealed, social media is at the heart of Fintech marketing, offering brands a platform to connect with audiences in genuine ways. Let’s dive into the key takeaways from the…

Alright folks, let's dive into the world of social media wizardry and explore a game-changer: motion graphics.

Innovation is constant and staying ahead of the curve is essential for success. Nowhere is this more evident than in the dynamic market of the EMEA region, where tech marketing and sales teams are continuously seeking new avenues to connect with buyers and drive high-quality engagements. But what exactly is…

Stay in the loop with the ever-changing landscape of social media updates. Explore the newest highlights right here