If it feels like social media changes every five minutes, you’re not wrong. But the good news? With the right strategy your business can ride the 2026 wave and create a marketing plan that works rather than guessing.  

Let’s break down the tactics that’ll actually make a difference next year. 

Facebook: Make Friends, Not Posts 

While seemingly outdated, Facebook is still the largest social media app with over 3 billion active users. Your marketing plan shouldn’t overlook it.  

• Focus on conversations, not just content. Polls, comments, stories, and community posts will outperform “look at me” updates. 

• Keep your ad creative fresh – the algorithm’s changing, and lazy visuals won’t cut it. 

• Double down on what drives results now: authenticity and connection. 

✨ Tactic to try: Run one community-based post per week (think: “We’d love your opinion…”). Track how comments affect reach. 

Instagram: Reel in the Results 

Instagram is trialling new platform updates that will change how users and creators use the app.   

• If you haven’t gone video-first, now’s the time. Reels will dominate visibility, with ideas to have the app open to Reels. 

• Keep your editing simple and snappy – you don’t need Hollywood production, just clarity and confidence. 

• Budget a small boost spend for your best Reels to extend reach as Meta looks introduce reach and boost features for creators to encourage app engagement. 

• Optimise new SEO features that allow your posts to appear in Google searches 

✨ Tactic to try: Batch-create 3–4 short Reels each month, quick tips, product demos, or behind-the-scenes. Then promote your top performer. 

TikTok: Small Niches, Big Wins 

TikTok has been the fastest growing social media platform over the past few years and this will continue in 2026. It’s fast-twitch algorithm allows anyone to go viral and rewards niche content.  

• Find your micro-community – the smaller and more specific, the better the engagement. 

• Don’t shy away from brand personality. Use a mix of team, humour and professional content 

✨ Tactic to try: Create one TikTok that answers a real customer question in your niche. Keep it conversational, not corporate. 

LinkedIn: Be the Expert (Without Being Boring) 

With the decline of X (Twitter), LinkedIn has become the home of smart business conversations. 
And the good news is, you do not need fancy video content to perform well. 

• Strong text based posts, paired with a simple branded image or graphic, still win attention on LinkedIn. People love practical insights, honest reflections, and real world learnings. 

• Use LinkedIn to build credibility and trust, because people want to buy from experts who feel relatable and grounded in experience. 

• Check your analytics and post when your audience is most active to maximise reach. 

✨ Tactic to try: Share one “lesson learned” or “client success” post every fortnight. A simple graphic with a clear takeaway works beautifully and helps position you as the go to in your space. 

Pinterest: The Quiet Achiever of Social Media 

Often overlooked but can be a powerhouse when used correctly. Highly tailored algorithms and a peaceful interface differentiate the app from other social media forms, providing a gateway for online shopping and targeted advertising.  

• If you’re in design, retail, or anything visual, Pinterest can quietly drive sales. 

• Optimise pins for shopping and search – think “click to buy” flow. 

• Focus on real aesthetic images that blend into the feed. 

✨ Tactic to try: Upload 5–10 product or service visuals with simple keywords. Link directly to your site’s best-seller or offer page. 

6 Universal Rules for Social Media 

When planning your content for 2026 follow these rules: 

Video-first: Attention is short. Movement matters. 
Show people, not polish: Authentic > perfect. 
Pick your niche: You don’t need everyone. You need your people. 
Test small, scale smart: Use micro-budgets to learn fast. 
Make it shoppable: Cut steps between “see” and “buy.” 
Build trust: Transparency wins. Always. 

2026 isn’t about chasing every trend, it’s about intentional marketing that works for your size and stage.  

Feeling inspired but not sure where to start? 
👉 Get in touch today to turn ideas into action and get your socials ready for 2026.