How to Know Which Social Media Trends Are Worth Chasing

Every week, there's a new sound, filter, or meme taking

over social media.

While it can be tempting to jump on every trend, the brands that stand out aren't the ones posting the fastest—they're the ones choosing trends that actually fit their voice.

Have you ever noticed that some trends disappear after a day or two, while others stick around for weeks? That's usually because the best trends are more than just a funny audio or viral format—they give people a way to tell their own story. Instead of everyone creating the same video, they're able to adapt the trend to fit their personality, business, or niche.

That's why some trends have staying power. They're flexible enough for hundreds of different creators and brands to make them their own, which keeps the trend feeling fresh long after it first appears.

So how do you know which trends are worth your time? Here are three things we look for before recommending one to a client.

1. It tells a story - Not just a joke

The best trends give your audience a glimpse into your brand's personality.

Take the recent "Preparing for my Netflix documentary about..." trend. Instead of copying a dance or lip-sync, brands are using the format to tell a quick story about what makes them unique.

It's simple, relatable, and instantly communicates your niche.

2. It can be customized to your business.

If a trend only works for one type of creator, it probably isn't worth the effort. Great trends are flexible.

A jewelry store might write:

Preparing for our Netflix documentary on helping someone choose the perfect engagement ring.

A coffee shop could say:

Preparing for our Netflix documentary on opening before sunrise.

A dentist:

Preparing for my Netflix documentary on convincing adults to floss.

Same trend. Three completely different stories.

3. It feels natural for your audience.

Not every trend is worth forcing. Before you hit post, ask yourself: "Does this sound like something we'd actually say?"

The best trend-based content still feels unmistakably like your brand. Your audience should recognize your personality, values, or sense of humor—even if they don't know the trend.

If you're changing your tone just to fit a trend, it's probably not the right one.

The goal isn't to go viral—it's to create content that feels authentic and connects with the people you're trying to reach.

The Takeaway

Not every trend deserves a spot in your content calendar.

The best trends don't just get views—they help people understand who you are. Before jumping on the latest sound or format, ask yourself:

• Does it tell our story?

• Can we make it our own?

• Will it feel natural to our audience?

  
  

If you can answer "yes" to all three, you've probably found a trend worth using.

Need help finding trends that actually fit your brand? We sort through the noise so you don't have to. Subscribe to our Weekly Trend Report and get the trends that are worth your time—plus ideas for how to adapt them to your business before everyone else does.