12 Social Media Trend Tracker Tips

Consider this: you’re scrolling through your social media feed and coming across a post that catches your attention — a meme about a trend or event you can barely remember. Suddenly, you feel out of touch. After all, this trend seems to be everywhere. And while it's great that people are having fun with it, what gets your mind racing is how quickly this trend went viral. 

Could you have jumped on the opportunity to create content around this trend? And, how to find social media trends? After all, trends like these can help your content reach new audiences, and who knows? You could even go viral. If you had been tracking social media trends, you could have. In this blog, we’ll share 12 social media trend tracker tips to help you identify viral trends so you can create timely content to improve your social media performance, boost your engagement, and achieve your goals.

One way to track social media trends is with Virlo's virality analysis tool. This solution helps you identify viral trends and predict their performance over time so you can create content that aligns with them and boosts your chances of going viral.

Table of Contents

• Importance of Social Media Trends for Businesses

• 12 Social Media Trend Tracker Tips

• Social Media Trends for Going Viral

• How to Leverage Social Media Trends

• Go Viral with Virlo's Virality Analysis Tool

Importance of Social Media Trends for Businesses

The Viral Buzz: How Trends Get Started

Social media trends often gain momentum through viral sharing. It starts with an initial spark, such as a catchy hashtag, a captivating video, a relatable meme, or an influential endorsement. When people find the content engaging or exciting, they share it with their networks, creating a ripple effect. The level of virality determines how quickly a trend spreads and how long it remains in the spotlight.

The Potential of User-Generated Content in Trends

User-generated content plays a significant role in the development of social media trends. It involves individuals creating and sharing their content related to a particular trend. This content can include photos, videos, challenges, or personal anecdotes contributing to the trend's growth and appeal. User participation fosters community and encourages others to join, fueling the trend's popularity.

Influencers: The Trend Amplifiers

Influencers and thought leaders often play a crucial role in amplifying social media trends. These individuals have a substantial following and can drive engagement and adoption of trends through their influence. When influencers participate in or endorse a trend, their followers are likelier to join in, leading to broader exposure and increased engagement.

Using Platform Features to Leverage Trends

Different social media platforms have unique features and capabilities that contribute to the anatomy of trends. For example, Instagram's visual nature makes it ideal for trends centered around images or aesthetics, while Twitter's quick and concise format encourages the spread of viral hashtags and conversations. Understanding platform-specific features helps businesses effectively tailor their approach and content to leverage trends.

The Importance of Cultural Relevance and Timeliness

Social media trends often emerge in response to cultural moments, events, or societal shifts. They reflect the online community's current interests, concerns, or aspirations. Timeliness is crucial, as trends are more likely to gain traction when they align with ongoing conversations or significant occurrences. Trends that tap into broader cultural sentiments resonate deeply with users.

Trends and Niche Communities

Social media trends can emerge from specific niche communities or subcultures within larger platforms. These communities develop their language, customs, and shared interests, which can give rise to unique trends. Paying attention to these communities and understanding their dynamics can help businesses tap into targeted audiences and niche markets.

The Impact of Algorithms on Social Media Trends

Social media platforms employ algorithms that curate content based on users' preferences, engagement patterns, and trends. These algorithms play a role in shaping the visibility and reach of social media trends. When a trend gains significant engagement or receives high levels of interaction, the platform's algorithm may prioritize it, increasing its visibility to a broader audience.

The Need for Authentic Brand Participation

Brands often participate in social media trends to engage with their audience and increase brand visibility. When brands adapt and align their content with trending topics, they can leverage the existing momentum and reach a wider audience. However, brands must approach trend participation authentically and ensure their messaging aligns with their brand identity and values.

12 Social Media Trend Tracker Tips

1. Use Virlo for Up-to-Date Trend Discovery

Virlo helps short-form content creators crack the code of virality through AI-powered trend analysis. Our platform combines creator insights with advanced analytics to identify winning content patterns, optimal posting times, and successful audio/video combinations that help your content stand out in today's fast-moving social landscape. 

Perfect for independent creators looking to build a sustainable side business, Virlo takes the guesswork out of content strategy. We analyze the latest viral trends and help you understand when to post and what combinations of elements drive engagement. Whether you're just starting or looking to optimize your existing content, Virlo enables you to navigate the ever-changing algorithms to increase your chances of going viral. Go viral with Virlo's virality analysis tool.  

2. Google Trends to Monitor What’s Hot Online

Google Trends is the best way to monitor trending topics expansively. Because Google Trends uses search data, it will give you a much broader picture of what is trending than you’d see by analyzing data on a single social network. That data may help you make more informed decisions about what you promote, engage with, and follow. You can set up a Google Alert for any keyword you want to watch so you will always know what is happening.  

3. Hootsuite for Daily Trend Monitoring

With a wide selection of tools and an excellent method for searching across several social media platforms, Hootsuite allows you to monitor trends daily, whether only one trending hashtag or a variety of social media trending topics. Be sure to check out Hootsuite’s webinars to see some of the lesser-known features available to pro users.   

4. TweetDeck for Twitter Trend Tracking

TweetDeck is a free Twitter monitoring tool that allows you to track specific hashtags and keep tabs on their popularity. It’s also an overall Twitter management dashboard that displays your timeline, messages, and notifications in one place so you don’t miss anything. However, you cannot use TweetDeck to monitor other social media platforms, and it’s not as versatile as dashboards, such as Cyfe and Hootsuite.  

5. Cyfe for Customizable Trend Tracking

This all-in-one social trend dashboard allows you to build your tools. It offers widgets that can create anything you need for social media, business, marketing, or research. Cyfe is a great way to clear the clutter while tracking many trending hashtags and keywords within one dashboard.   

6. Reddit for Discovering Trends Early

Reddit is another great place to see things early on. But, unlike Tumblr, which is more meme-based, Reddit shows trends in different categories. A trending story about technology sometimes drops there first, and Reddit’s “Ask Me Anything” discussions are a great way to engage directly with experts. You can also look at Trending Reddit to see what is hot at any given time.   

7. Tumblr for Memes and Pop Culture Content

When you see a meme or other trending content on Facebook, it may have been circulating on Tumblr for weeks or months. Though not as popular as it once was, Tumblr is an excellent source of internet content ― especially in the pop culture domain ― right when it has been posted, and you will see it first if you keep your dashboard filled with a good selection of active blogs.   

8. Social Mention for Multi-Network Searches

Social Mention allows trend tracking across multiple social platforms. Search for a keyword or phrase. Social Mention will tell you the networks where that search term is the most popular, along with other metrics, such as whether the sentiment associated with the trend or term is positive, negative, or neutral.  

9. Top Hashtags for Instagram Hashtag Research

Top Hashtags monitors the hashtags that are trending on Instagram, and you can search to see how popular hashtags are even if they aren’t on the top lists. The tool is easy to use and informative.  

10. TubeBuddy for YouTube Trends

It can be easy to forget that YouTube is also a social media platform. TubeBuddy allows you to perform keyword research on the platform to determine how to shape your company’s next YouTube video. Suppose you want to connect your brand to something trending in pop culture. In that case, TubeBuddy can be especially useful because pop culture is among YouTube’s most-watched content categories, according to Think with Google.  

11. TikTok Creative Center for Trend Discovery

TikTok is still a relatively new social media platform that has exploded in popularity over the past few years. Thanks to its viral content, easy-to-use app, and creative filters, TikTok has become one of the most popular social media platforms for content creators and influencers. But it’s not just an app to browse the latest dance videos. 

TikTok also provides a wealth of information regarding trend discovery and analytics. TikTok’s Creative Center allows you to filter through songs, hashtags, creators, and TikTok videos. You can select various timeframes, such as the country you want to analyze or even the industry.  

12. Follow Industry Influencers to Stay on Top of Trends

Another great way to stay current on emerging trends is to follow influencers in your industry simply. Not all trends will apply to all niches, so staying on top of what’s relevant to your niche is essential. Whichever platform you spend the most time on, make an effort to seek out other public figures in your niche and follow what they post. You can even turn on post notifications on platforms like Twitter or YouTube to be alerted as soon as their post or video is live. 

The faster you can react, make relevant content, and ride a particular trend, the better your chance of growing your social media presence. If you want to take it a step further, try reaching out to these influencers via DM or a link in their bio (if they have Linktree or a similar service) to see if there are any collaboration opportunities you could work on together.

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Social Media Trends for Going Viral

1. AI-Generated Influencers: A New Wave of Personalities 

Artificial intelligence is stepping into the spotlight instead of lurking behind the scenes. AI-generated influencers are digital personalities created entirely by algorithms. These virtual influencers can appear more realistic, with lifelike expressions, dynamic interactions, and tailor-made branding. Brands are partnering with these digital creations to reach audiences in fresh, cost-effective ways. 

Why does this matter? AI influencers don’t age, demand high fees, or need breaks. For marketers, this trend offers unprecedented control over messaging and image consistency. Expect platforms like Instagram and TikTok to feature more of these virtual personalities.

2. Hyperlocal Content: Think Globally, Post Locally

In 2025, social media is becoming more community-focused. Platforms encourage hyperlocal content, allowing users to discover events, businesses, and people nearby. This trend benefits small companies looking to connect directly with their communities and users who value personalized, locally relevant posts. 

How to leverage it: Small businesses can use tools like geo-targeted ads or community-based hashtags. Platforms like Facebook and Nextdoor are doubling down on these features to keep users engaged.

3. Short-form videos Continue to Dominate

If you thought short-form videos were just a phase, think again. Platforms like TikTok, Instagram Reels, and YouTube Shorts are still dominating in 2025. These videos are for entertainment, education, product promotion, and storytelling. Short, engaging clips capture attention faster and keep viewers hooked. For brands, this means creating concise, visually appealing content that delivers value in seconds. The rule of thumb? Keep it short but impactful.

4. Social Commerce: Smooth Shopping Experiences 

Social commerce is growing stronger, with platforms integrating shopping features directly into their ecosystems. Users can now discover products, read reviews, and purchase without leaving their favorite apps. Instagram’s shoppable posts and TikTok’s in-app shopping are leading the charge. What’s new for 2025? Live shopping events are becoming a go-to strategy for brands. Think QVC on Instagram Live with interactive features and instant purchasing options.

5. Voice-First Interactions 

Voice technology is transforming social media. In 2025, expect platforms to integrate voice-first interactions, where users can navigate, post, and engage using voice commands. This is especially beneficial for users who are multitasking or prefer hands-free engagement. For example, consider saying, “Create a post about my new product,” and having AI generate the visuals and text for you. The future is voice-driven, and brands should prepare by optimizing their content for voice search and interaction.

6. Decentralized Social Networks 

Privacy concerns are pushing users towards decentralized social networks. Unlike traditional platforms, these networks operate on blockchain technology, giving users control over their data and content. Decentralized platforms like Mastodon and Lens Protocol are gaining traction as alternatives to mainstream social media. Brands can use this trend to connect with privacy-conscious audiences while exploring new ways to monetize content through blockchain and NFTs.

7. Gamified Experiences 

Gamification is becoming a key strategy for user engagement. Social media platforms incorporate game-like elements such as quizzes, polls, challenges, and interactive filters. These features make user interaction more fun and rewarding, encouraging people to spend more time on the app. For marketers, gamification opens the door to creative campaigns that boost engagement. For instance, a brand could create a challenge that rewards users with discounts or exclusive content.

8. Sustainable and Ethical Social Media Practices 

With growing awareness around sustainability, platforms are adopting eco-friendly practices. Users are increasingly drawn to brands and platforms committed to environmental and ethical values. How to adapt: Highlight your company’s sustainable efforts on social media. Use visuals and campaigns to showcase your contributions to a greener future, such as using renewable energy or supporting social causes.

9. Biometric Personalization 

Biometrics are taking personalization to the next level. Platforms are starting to use facial recognition and emotion detection to tailor content in real-time. consider scrolling through your feed and seeing posts that match your current mood—happy, nostalgic, or adventurous. For brands, this means creating dynamic, adaptive content that resonates deeply with users on an emotional level.

10. Event-Centric Socialization 

Virtual events are becoming a staple of social media. Platforms now host interactive experiences like live concerts, webinars, and product launches enhanced by augmented and virtual reality. These events offer brands a unique way to connect with audiences, no matter where they are. Tips for success: Invest in tools that create immersive visuals for virtual events. High-quality graphics and AR elements can make your event stand out.

Virlo helps short-form content creators crack the code of virality through AI-powered trend analysis. Our platform combines creator insights with advanced analytics to identify winning content patterns, optimal posting times, and successful audio/video combinations that help your content stand out in today's fast-moving social landscape. 

Perfect for independent creators looking to build a sustainable side business, Virlo takes the guesswork out of content strategy. We analyze the latest viral trends and help you understand when to post and what combinations of elements drive engagement. Whether you're just starting or looking to optimize your existing content, Virlo enables you to navigate the ever-changing algorithms to increase your chances of going viral. Go viral with Virlo's virality analysis tool.  

How to Leverage Social Media Trends

1. Find Your Social Media Home

Post on relevant social media networks. Brands often assume they need to be present on every platform to have an effective social media strategy. But in reality, brands only need to be where their target audience lives. Each platform has unique tools and features, but not all will suit your needs. First, figure out which platforms align well with your business. Then, you can focus your time and resources on the channels that will drive the highest ROI for your program. 

2. Customize Content for Each Platform

Optimize content for each platform. After choosing the right platforms, you must select content best suited for each. Photo and video content are the most valuable for achieving social goals, but marketers must still strategize where, how, and when to post them. While posting on every channel is unnecessary, most successful brands are active on multiple platforms. They might post video content on Facebook and YouTube to showcase the stories of their clients and employees. Meanwhile, Instagram might capture static images of the company and share facts and updates about it. 

3. Keep a Regular Posting Schedule

Be consistent. Consistency is critical for successful social media content marketing. Create a schedule that outlines when to post and considers the types of content and frequency of posting that audiences are most likely to engage with. Software like Hootsuite and Viralo can help automate posting according to your content calendar, so you don’t have to upload each post manually. Remember, consistency goes beyond just making regular posts. 

You should also be consistent in your brand’s messaging, tone, and aesthetics across all social networks. Pro Tip: Brands often overlook the style of their uploaded images. Decide on a particular color scheme or filter for your photos, and use the same edits to maintain consistency. 

4. Be Social

Engage followers. The best way to grow your social media reach organically is to interact with your followers and influencers. Meaningful interaction can be as simple as liking your followers’ posts and pages on Facebook or thanking them in the comments when they share your posts. Social media content marketing is about forging lasting relationships with your followers; even a seemingly minor gesture goes a long way to establishing brand loyalty. 

5. Use Influencer Marketing

Studies show that influencers produce 11 times more ROI than any other marketing approach—one of the many reasons experts believe influencer marketing will become a $15 billion industry in 2022. Partnering with social media creators is one of the best ways brands build an authentic relationship with consumers. Influencers have dedicated followers of people who trust their recommendations for new products and services. 

Plus, these creators produce studio-quality content (for a fraction of the price) that brands can repurpose across all relevant social media platforms. You’ll have the most success with influencer marketing when you find a creator who aligns with your mission and values. When they use your products, love your brand, and believe in both, they will have no problem providing you with honest endorsements. 

6. Pay to Play

Pay to promote your posts. The organic reach of social media content is getting increasingly more complex. Partnering with influencers is one great way to boost your reach, but paid promotions are now crucial to successful social media strategies. Paid advertisements help you target specific audience groups with which to share your content. This increases your reach, visibility, and brand awareness. 

A paid ad also typically includes a call-to-action button within the ad creative. Track audience responses and engagement rates on these ads to optimize your campaign performance. Pro Tip: Remember: Paid social media content marketing doesn’t work the same way on every network. Facebook ads are different from Twitter ads, etc. You will need to customize your strategy for each platform. 

7. Balance Promotional and Helpful Content

Balance promotional and helpful content. Resist the urge to promote and talk about your product online constantly. Social media content marketing is about creating content that users find useful when they’re ready to purchase. The best way to grow your brand organically is to have customers come to you rather than vice versa. You accomplish this by earning a reputation for being a trustworthy authority in the industry. By creating content like tutorials, product reviews, and industry thought leadership in general, you’ll see a drastic rise in your followership. 

8. Offer Rewards

Offering rewards to your social media followers through giveaways, challenges, and other promotions is a great way to increase engagement and create a fun buzz around your brand. Brands usually need only a small investment for most reward programs, which can lead to massive returns and even “viral” status when done effectively. A prime example is DSW’s #DSWCutLoose challenge. The shoe retailer asks followers to film themselves dancing to the Footloose soundtrack and post the video on social media to win a $200 gift card. The company invested just $2,000 in prizes while the video submissions accumulated over 8 billion views on TikTok. 

9. Learn As Much As Possible About Your Audience

Learn as much as possible about your audience. Use social media to learn everything you can about your target audience. Tools like Facebook and Instagram Insights, Twitter Analytics, and Google Analytics help determine which platforms give you the most engagement. But more importantly, you discover your users’ genders, locations, ages, interests, etc. Social listening tools are a helpful way to listen to consumers’ online conversations about your brand, even if they don’t tag you in the post. 

10. Analyze and Optimize

Analyze and optimize. There are two things to consider when it comes to analysis and optimization. First, you must regularly analyze your social media content marketing metrics to gain insights into your social media activity. You'll save valuable resources and increase your ROI by figuring out what’s working and what isn’t. Secondly, you must consider your brand’s and your influencers’ outreach. Remember, it’s not enough to simply collaborate with influencers. You need the right creators to make the most of your influencer marketing program. A creator management platform alleviates these pain points. 

An effective platform allows you to filter influencers based on their relevance to your social networks, category, engagement rates, and fan following to find the right creators to recruit into your social media content marketing strategy. The creator management platform should also help you track and analyze key data to find actionable insights from your influencer campaign. You’ll quickly zero in on a strategy that works best for you. You’ll also be able to optimize your existing social media content marketing efforts to grow your business further.

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Go Viral with Virlo's Virality Analysis Tool

Social media trends are the topics, themes, and challenges that capture users' attention on social platforms. They can apply to any type of content, including images, videos, and text posts, and can be specific to certain demographics, locations, and even social media channels. 

For example, there may be a viral trend on TikTok that’s popular among users in a particular country or region, and it could involve short videos that feature a specific audio clip. If you looked into the trend further, you might discover that the videos with the most engagement all include specific visual elements or text related to the audio. Understanding how social media trends work can help you identify what’s driving engagement so you can create content that aligns with the current trend before it’s too late.

Virlo helps short-form content creators crack the code of virality through AI-powered trend analysis. Our platform combines creator insights with advanced analytics to identify winning content patterns, optimal posting times, and successful audio/video combinations that help your content stand out in today's fast-moving social landscape. 

Perfect for independent creators looking to build a sustainable side business, Virlo takes the guesswork out of content strategy. We analyze the latest viral trends and help you understand when to post and what combinations of elements drive engagement. Whether you're just starting or looking to optimize your existing content, Virlo helps you navigate the ever-changing algorithms to increase your chances of going viral. Go viral with Virlo's virality analysis tool.  

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