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So, you have LinkedIn account? Awesome! You are one of the 1.5 billion users worldwide who have joined the party!&nbsp;But like any party, it's up to you how to spend it - You can either be the person that everyone is enthralled by, or you can be the weird one who starts fights.We will assume it is the former.&nbsp;But we know what you're thinking. Whenever you try something new, it's always - “Ah, help! I have no idea what I’m doing!”. But don’t worry; we’re going to go over some tips on how to make LinkedIn work for you.&nbsp;But before we get into the HOW, let's address the WHY.<h2>💎Okay, So Why?</h2>Not to sound cliche but it's a well-known saying that it isn't what you know, it's who&nbsp;you know. This isn't just some recycled wisdom that your parents gave when you were applying for your first job; it's a fundamental truth. Networking - the ability to create a web of friends and acquaintances to further mutual professional growth - is the best tool in career development.Take legendary singer Kate Bush. She was able to pass a demo tape to a family friend called Ricky Hopper, who himself was friends with Pink Floyd guitarist David Gilmour, who helped Kate record her song ‘Passing Through Air’, and put her in contact with other record producers and sound engineers. Now, we love Kate Bush as much as the next person, so it's scary to imagine a world where her great talent existed but remained undiscovered.&nbsp;<img src="https://cms.socialjems.co.uk/uploads/katebush_kate_5b13e248a1.gif" alt="katebush-kate.gif" srcset="https://cms.socialjems.co.uk/uploads/thumbnail_katebush_kate_5b13e248a1.gif 217w," sizes="100vw">Don't believe us?&nbsp; Kate Bush is not enough? Firstly, how dare you.&nbsp;Secondly, here are some more facts:💎LinkedIn is a growing platform, with some reporting a 44% year-over-year increase in post interactions.&nbsp;💎As mentioned, it has 1 billion active users from 200 countries. Even Ronald McDonald has a LinkedIn!💎As a recruitment tool, recruiters often look to LinkedIn to vet potential employees, with 67% of businesses agreeing that candidates sourced from LinkedIn are of higher quality.<h2>💎Spammer? Or Networker?</h2>&nbsp;When you are on LinkedIn, be honest. Are you just there to sell - whether that is a product for your business, or yourself? Are you getting into the DMs of random people - often unprompted, trying to get them to do something for you? It's okay - we have all been there. It's a rookie mistake to make. But you don’t want to be the digital equivalent of those street salespeople who try to get you to change your energy provider.&nbsp;Don't be a spammer! It’s doing far more harm than you realise.&nbsp;Like anywhere, LinkedIn has its own culture and etiquette. Less Mad Max style, leather-clad anarchy - more a friendly gathering.&nbsp;💎Relax. Don't try to make every interaction a sales pitch.&nbsp;💎Engage meaningfully with others.💎 Don't appear desperate by jumping into the DMs too early and unprompted.💎Be authentic. Don't try to play a character - be yourself.Unlike a lot of social networks, LinkedIn has cultivated a community of positivity. So unless you want to become LinkedIn’s version of the town drunk, best leave your negativity at the door. Keeping things upbeat not only makes you stand out for the right reasons, but it makes people genuinely want to connect with you.&nbsp;&nbsp;Once you have built a positive, engaging and authentic reputation, you can slowly build your connections. This will open a world of opportunities for you and your business.<img src="/uploads/image_8a1aa575d4.png" alt="A blue and white background with text

AI-generated content may be incorrect."><h2>💎How Not to Suck at Posting&nbsp;</h2>Once you have gotten to know the world of LinkedIn, now’s your chance to add to the collective discussion. Maybe you already have, but your posts have gone down like a bad joke.&nbsp;Here are some ways to improve your posting:💎Strong hook. Get your readers' attention by hitting them with something that catches their attention.💎Nice layout. Make sure that the structure is pleasing to the eye.💎Keep jargon to a minimum.&nbsp; You want your posts to be as accessible as possible.&nbsp;💎Call to Action! Have something at the end - a question perhaps - that gives them the confidence to engage with your post.Once you have mastered this, you will want to maximise your reach by playing LinkedIn’s algorithm to your advantage:💎 Consistency is key. Make sure your presence is consistent, lest the algorithm doesn't bless you with her favour, and your precious posts will be lost to irrelevancy in the fires of Mount LinkedIn.&nbsp;💎NEVER post and ghost. Be ready to respond to comments so that the algorithm knows you’re still alive.💎Post when people are looking at LinkedIn. Which, according to research is generally between 7 a.m. and 4 p.m. on weekdays but remember, it’s about finding what works for your audience. Don't be afraid to experiment.With this in mind, you’ll likely have the tools you need to create interesting content that people are interested in - and avoid posts that are the digital equivalent of a weak handshake.<img src="/uploads/image_d29f7bc92a.png" alt="A person wearing a person hat

AI-generated content may be incorrect."><h2>💎LinkedIn’s Video Renaissance: How To Use It To Your Advantage</h2>In 2018, TikTok stormed onto the scene, shaking up the digital content sphere forever with its short-form content, pioneered by apps such as Vine. Since the explosion of TikTok’s popularity, other social media sites have followed suit: Facebook, Instagram, YouTube, and more recently, LinkedIn.While ‘short form content’ may take your mind to funny dances or meme trends, it has set a new standard for marketing.&nbsp;Here are some statistics just to hammer home the point.💎In 2024, 66% of all video ads were under 30 seconds.💎 93% of marketers report that short-form content has helped to find new customers.💎54% of customers want more short-form content from brands.Like Pandora’s box, TikTok and others like it, have changed viewing trends forever and, like it or not - it’s here to stay.LinkedIn has noticed this. And with its push for short-form content, the site has seen a 36% increase in watch time, especially with younger audiences who have grown up on Vine and TikTok.&nbsp;<img src="/uploads/image_d922914f2c.png" alt="A screenshot of a social media post

AI-generated content may be incorrect."><h2>💎Still Need Help? Light the Beacon of SocialJems</h2>If you require some more guidance, fear not! We offer a variety of services to take your LinkedIn presence to the next level!💎LinkedIn training.&nbsp;💎Content Creation to help you get seen💎Profile optimisation to make your profile pop!💎And more...You could always check out our&nbsp;<a href="https://socialjems.co.uk/services">services page</a> and find out for yourself.&nbsp;😉Understood? Do you feel wiser? Does your brain feel bigger? Are you excited for the possibilities that LinkedIn has?&nbsp;And if you haven’t set up a LinkedIn account yet, we hope this blog will inspire you to get started now? Now like a wise sage, we impart this wisdom to you - now go out and smash it!But before you go, follow us for more marketing insights:<a href="https://www.linkedin.com/company/social-jem-s/?viewAsMember=true">LinkedIn</a><a href="https://www.instagram.com/thesocialjems/">Instagram</a><a href="https://www.facebook.com/SocialJems/">Facebook</a><a href="https://www.tiktok.com/@socialjems1">TikTok</a>&nbsp;And don’t forget to <a href="https://socialjems.co.uk/contact">get in touch with us</a>, if you need help with LinkedIn. It’s kinda what we do.

We may be deep into 2025, but it's not too late to start something new. So, are you ready to smash your LinkedIn?

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LinkedIn 101: Tips, Tricks and Traps to Avoid  

And yes, the rumours are true... The Social Games are BACK!😎But more on that in a bit. First, let’s look at what’s going on in the world of social media…<h2>💎 SOCIAL MEDIA UPDATES</h2>Instagram gets secretive with lockable posts.Instagram's testing a nifty new feature that lets you create posts only unlockable with a secret code. Think of it as your very own digital speakeasy - "what's the password?"This could be great for:&nbsp;💎 Giving exclusive content to your most loyal followers&nbsp;💎 Creating region-specific offers without spamming everyone&nbsp;💎 Running treasure hunt-style promotions&nbsp;💎 Sharing special discounts with previous customersIt's similar to the "Reveal" sticker they added for Stories last year, but this seems designed more for feed posts. Instagram hasn't confirmed when (or if) this will roll out widely, but we're keeping our eyes peeled.<img src="/uploads/image_ea7add989d.png" alt="A screenshot of a social media post

AI-generated content may be incorrect."><h2>💎 LinkedIn Finally Lets You Send Videos in DMs (properly)</h2>LinkedIn has just rolled out a feature that's been on many users' wishlists for ages - you can now add MP4 videos as actual attachments in your LinkedIn messages.Let's be clear - people have been sharing videos in LinkedIn DMs for years, but only through sharable links. This new update means you can attach the video file directly, which is a game-changer, especially for recruiters and sales professionals.While LinkedIn has allowed file attachments in DMs since 2018 (PDFs, spreadsheets, Word docs and PowerPoints), they've now expanded this to include MP4 videos. This joins their already decent lineup of shareable content types, including various image formats and spreadsheet files.But before you start planning your feature-length LinkedIn production, there's a catch - the 20MB size limit means you're looking at clips of just a couple of minutes max. So no, you can't send your entire company conference keynote (your connections will probably thank you for that).This update opens up some genuinely useful possibilities:💎 Send personalised video introductions that stand out&nbsp; 💎 Share quick product demos without scheduling a full call&nbsp; 💎 Provide visual how-to guides when text just isn't cutting it 💎 Create bite-sized testimonials from happy clientsWhy this mattersBefore you dismiss this as just another feature update, consider this: video content has seen a whopping 36% increase in watch time on LinkedIn year-over-year. The platform's users are clearly hungry for more visual content.For businesses looking to connect with younger talent (hello, TikTok generation), this feature offers a more dynamic way to engage. Why send a text-heavy job description when you could share a quick video tour of the office or team intro?Is this feature groundbreaking?&nbsp;Not exactly. But it does give you another tool in your professional communication arsenal - one that might help you stand out in increasingly crowded inboxes.Just remember the golden rule of LinkedIn messaging: if you wouldn't do it at an in-person networking event, don't do it in someone's DMs. That means no unsolicited 3-minute videos of you explaining your business opportunity to complete strangers.<img src="https://cms.socialjems.co.uk/uploads/image_d76c14fe25.png" alt="image.png" srcset="https://cms.socialjems.co.uk/uploads/thumbnail_image_d76c14fe25.png 156w,https://cms.socialjems.co.uk/uploads/small_image_d76c14fe25.png 500w," sizes="100vw"><h2>💎 LinkedIn Goes a Bit TikTok with New Video Trends Feature</h2>LinkedIn is dipping its toes into TikTok-style waters with its latest feature: video trends. Yes, you read that right – the platform known for job hunting and humble-bragging about promotions now wants you to jump on trending video bandwagons.&nbsp;How Does It Work?The new feature adds header tags to video clips and in your main feed that highlight trending topics. When you spot one that tickles your fancy (or matches your professional expertise), you can tap to see what others are sharing on that subject.But here's where it gets interesting – there's an "Add to this trend" button that opens your camera, practically begging you to record your hot take. It's essentially LinkedIn saying, "Go on, we know you have an opinion on quarterly financial forecasting techniques..."Will LinkedIn Users Actually Jump On Trends?There's definitely potential here. People love sharing their opinions (especially on LinkedIn), and if the topics hit the right professional nerve, users might feel compelled to add their wisdom.&nbsp;LinkedIn video trends could be a smart way to boost engagement and get more people comfortable with video on the platform. Or it could be another feature that gets initial curiosity before fading into obscurity (remember LinkedIn Stories?).For now, it's being tested with US users only. So, if you're in the States, keep an eye out for trending topics that might align with your expertise – getting in early could help you stand out as a thought leader. For everyone else, you can enjoy watching from the sidelines.Would you participate in LinkedIn video trends?<img src="https://cms.socialjems.co.uk/uploads/kucing_joget_joget_dfa4369f3a.gif" alt="kucing-joget-joget.gif" srcset="https://cms.socialjems.co.uk/uploads/thumbnail_kucing_joget_joget_dfa4369f3a.gif 93w," sizes="100vw"><h2>💎 TikTok Drama Continues</h2>The TikTok saga in the US continues with another 75-day extension to avoid a ban. Despite the bill already technically passing, President Trump's executive order has stopped enforcement while negotiations continue.The Chinese side doesn't seem keen on the proposed arrangement where ByteDance would keep a 19.9% stake and America would "lease" the algorithm rather than taking full ownership.Bottom line: TikTok's still available in the US for now, but the clock's ticking. Again.<h2>💎 THE SOCIAL GAMES ARE BACK!</h2>It’s back and better than ever!&nbsp;Why? Because:&nbsp;💎 The chilled-out vibe is unmatched&nbsp; 💎 The games are actually fun (not awkward corporate team-building nonsense)&nbsp; 💎 Most importantly, it's full of people who get itLet's be straight - running a business can feel like "riding a rollercoaster that's derailed, on fire" (Jem's words, not ours). Not everyone understands the passion, drive, and occasional panic attacks that come with it.The Details:<ul><li>When: Thursday, 15th May, 6-9pm</li><li>Where: Mad Frans in Leeds (right by the station)</li><li>How much: £25+VAT (includes welcome drink, nibbles, games, magician, and photographer)</li><li>Last time: Over 50 fantastic professionals joined in!</li></ul><a href="https://www.eventbrite.co.uk/e/the-summer-social-games-tickets-1286652725939?aff=oddtdtcreator">GRAB YOUR TICKETS HERE</a><a href="https://www.eventbrite.co.uk/e/the-summer-social-games-tickets-1286652725939?aff=oddtdtcreator"><img src="/uploads/image_a2cb230ea0.png" alt="The Summer Social Games"></a><h2>💎Team Updates Starting with Jem</h2>Our superstar Jem has been managing a popped disc lately, but in typical Jem fashion, she's tackling it head-on! After working with John at the clinic, she's already seeing amazing improvements.What did she discover? Only that she has one leg shorter than the other, which has caused that popped disc and been twisting her left side enough to affect her hip and knees. Oh, and a touch of scoliosis thrown in for good measure.The good news? Regular physio is making it all manageable and she's not in as much pain as she was. Jem's still crushing it business-wise, though she does need to take regular back breaks. She's promised to behave and stick to the recommended stretches that help with realignment.True to form, she's set up two office options - her desk for good days and working from bed when needed. Even from her recovery headquarters, she's still taking calls and landing new clients! The dogs, especially Jack, are thrilled with this bed-office arrangement, assuming she's going to bed early just for their cuddle time. Bless them.We're incredibly proud of Jem for managing her health alongside work. She's doing brilliantly, so if you need any marketing support, don't hesitate to reach out - she's definitely still open for business!But Jack is not impressed with Jem when she decides to work at the computer, so he likes to steal her seat.<img src="/uploads/image_ec1d37869b.png" alt="A person and person taking a selfie

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AI-generated content may be incorrect."><h2>💎 Sarah's Adventures (The Morgenmuffel Edition)</h2>Our Morgenmuffel has been busy adulting! Now that Sarah's a proud homeowner, she's discovering the joys (and costs) of decorating. Who knew paint and garden furniture could be so eye-wateringly expensive?She's also preparing for her driving test in May (fingers crossed she passes!), which means another big expense with the car coming up. As a result, she's temporarily paused her dog hunt - just until she figures out her new monthly budget. Adult life, eh?When she's not crunching numbers or picking paint colours, Sarah's been having more calls with clients, helping them with business ideas and content creation. Sometimes you know you want to write something brilliant, you just don't know where to start – and that's where a chat with Sarah works wonders.Remember, if you'd like an hour with Sarah or Jem to untangle your content knots, our Social Sizzle services are just the ticket. Just drop us a message to book!<img src="/uploads/image_7799dee228.png" alt="A person taking a selfie

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AI-generated content may be incorrect."><h2>💎 Twinnie's Puppy Paradise</h2>Sarah (aka Twinnie) – yes, we have too many Sarahs at SocialJems – has been living her best life lately, enjoying home renovations and soaking up the sun with her partner.Remember Luna, the dog they rescued from the streets? Well, Luna was pregnant! She's delivered a healthy litter of puppies who are now ready to find their forever homes. It hasn't been easy for Sarah to see them go (she'd keep them all if she could!), but she's thrilled they're heading off to start their new lives with loving families.On top of everything else, she has also started going for 30-minute walks each day! Think our team are finally learning the importance of selfcare.&nbsp;🥳<img src="/uploads/image_d97b8480a5.png" alt="A sunset behind a tree

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AI-generated content may be incorrect."><h2>💎 Cath's New Chapter</h2>It's been 7 weeks of nappy changes, midnight feedings, and the sweetest baby snuggles for our amazing Cath! Life has never been messier—or more magical.The SocialJems team has officially gained its tiniest member, and this little boss is keeping Cath on her toes while filling her heart to the brim. We're beyond excited for Cath and her family of three as they navigate this beautiful new chapter.We couldn't be happier for her!<img src="/uploads/image_09c32ac4b0.png" alt="A person and person holding a baby

AI-generated content may be incorrect."><h2>💎 THAT'S A WRAP!</h2>If you're already thinking about your marketing plans for the second half of 2025 (and you should be!), drop us a message. Whether you need engaging blogs, scroll-stopping social content, or website design that actually converts, we're here to help.And don't forget to grab your tickets for&nbsp;<a href="https://www.eventbrite.co.uk/e/the-summer-social-games-tickets-1286652725939?aff=oddtdtcreator">The Social Games</a> - they're going faster than ice cream on a rare sunny British day!Follow us for more marketing tips, social media updates and everything in-between.&nbsp;<a href="https://www.linkedin.com/company/social-jem-s/?viewAsMember=true">LinkedIn</a> <a href="https://www.instagram.com/thesocialjems/">Instagram</a> <a href="https://www.facebook.com/SocialJems/">Facebook</a> <a href="https://www.tiktok.com/@socialjems1">TikTok</a>

Another month, another wave of social media changes to keep up with. While most people were busy planning their summer holidays, the tech giants decided to throw us some curveballs. But don't worry - we've sorted through the chaos, so you don't have to waste precious scrolling time.

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Social media shake-ups & the return of social games!

While some might think newsletters have become the dinosaurs of the marketing world, we're here to tell you why they're still essential in 2025 and beyond. But fair warning - you can either use them to build your business or completely trash your reputation.&nbsp;Let's look at the hard facts, sharp insights, and brutal truths about making newsletters work.&nbsp;<h2>Why Newsletters Still Matter in 2025 (The Stats Don't Lie)</h2>Before you dismiss newsletters as outdated marketing tools, consider this: By 2027, there will be an estimated 4.89 billion email users worldwide. That's over 50% of the world's population checking their inboxes daily. Not exactly the "dying platform" some social media “gurus” would have you believe, is it? (PS, we hate the word gurus)According to the&nbsp;<a href="https://blog.beehiiv.com/p/2025-state-of-email-newsletters-by-beehiiv">2025 State of Email Newsletters Report</a>, engagement remains strong across industries, with fitness, mental health, and health showing the highest engagement rates.&nbsp;Despite the rise of social media platforms and other digital channels, newsletters offer something increasingly rare: direct access to your audience without the fickle interference of algorithms.&nbsp;Consider these recent statistics:💎 71% of customers expect personalised experiences&nbsp;💎 Personalised newsletters show significantly higher engagement rates&nbsp;💎 Email delivers an incredible ROI of £42 for every £1 spent&nbsp;💎 Open rates average nearly 38% across industries&nbsp;<h2>Still not convinced? We’ll keep going….</h2><img src="https://cms2.socialjems.co.uk/uploads/simpsons_newsletter_abf1841713.gif" alt="simpsons-newsletter.gif" srcset="https://cms2.socialjems.co.uk/uploads/thumbnail_simpsons_newsletter_abf1841713.gif 208w,https://cms2.socialjems.co.uk/uploads/small_simpsons_newsletter_abf1841713.gif 500w," sizes="100vw"><h2>How Can Newsletters Benefit Your Business?</h2><ol><li>Direct Line to Your Audience Unlike social media posts that might get lost in crowded feeds or fall victim to the latest algorithm change, newsletters land straight in your subscribers' inboxes. This direct line of communication ensures your message reaches its intended audience, building a sense of personal connection that's often lacking on other platforms. (Ps we’re not hating on social media, we’d be out of a job if we did.🤣)</li><li>Building Brand Loyalty and Trust Regular newsletters serve as a powerful tool for nurturing relationships with your audience. By consistently delivering valuable content directly to your subscribers, you're building trust and reinforcing your brand's presence in their lives. This ongoing engagement translates into increased customer loyalty and, ultimately, better business outcomes.</li><li>Measurable Results and ROI One of the most compelling arguments for newsletters is their trackability. Modern email marketing platforms offer robust analytics, allowing you to measure open rates, click-through rates, and conversions with precision. This data-driven approach enables you to refine your strategy continually, ensuring your efforts yield tangible results.</li><li>More Personalised Than Ever Advanced email marketing tools now allow for sophisticated segmentation and personalisation. From addressing subscribers by name to curating content based on their interests and behaviour, newsletters offer a level of customisation that resonates deeply with recipients.</li><li>Supporting Your Content Ecosystem Newsletters can serve as a central hub for your content marketing efforts. They can drive traffic to your website, promote your latest blog posts or videos, and even generate buzz around upcoming events or product launches. By integrating newsletters into your broader content strategy, you're creating a cohesive ecosystem that supports your overall marketing objectives.</li></ol><img src="/uploads/image_cd52485b1c.png"><h2>How to Create Newsletters That Don't Get Immediately Binned (Or Worse, Marked as Spam!)</h2>Now for the juicy bit – how to make sure your newsletter doesn't end up in digital purgatory.&nbsp;1. Nail Your Subject LineYour subject line is the make-or-break element of your email. According to recent data, shorter subject lines consistently outperform longer ones, with those under 40 characters showing the highest open rates.The moment you write more than 40 characters; open rates begin significantly dropping. Keep it punchy, intriguing, and to the point. And for heaven's sake, don't use "Newsletter Issue #42" unless you're actively trying to put people to sleep.2. Tell People What They're Signing Up ForBe crystal clear about what subscribers will receive from you. Near your signup form, add a section explaining exactly what type of content you'll be sending and how often. If people know what to expect, they're less likely to feel spammed or report you.Nobody likes a nasty surprise in their inbox. "Oh, I thought I'd get weekly tips but instead I'm getting daily sales pitches? Unsubscribe!"3. Provide Actual Value (Not Just Self-Promotion)Keep your newsletter 90% educational/valuable and only 10% promotional. Nobody wants to read a glorified advertisement. Your newsletter should solve problems, provide insights, entertain, or offer genuine value that subscribers can't easily find elsewhere.Remember: if your newsletter looks like it was written by your sales team during a caffeine binge, you're doing it wrong. People can smell desperation through their screens.4. Timing is EverythingData shows that Tuesday, Wednesday, and Thursday have the highest open rates, with Tuesday taking the top spot at 38.25%. The sweet spot for sending times? Late morning, with 11 am showing average open rates of nearly 43%. But just like your social media posts, your times will differ from another. Consider who your audience is and when they’re most likely to be around.5. Make It Scannable and Mobile-FriendlyWith 96.2% of global internet users accessing content via mobile phones, your newsletter must look good on small screens. Use short paragraphs, clear headings, and plenty of white space. Test your newsletter on multiple devices before sending.6. Keep It Consistent (But Not Boring)Consistency builds trust, but repetition breeds boredom. Maintain a regular schedule and consistent voice while varying your content formats and topics to keep subscribers engaged.It's a bit like dating - be reliable enough that they know you'll show up, but unpredictable enough that they're excited to see what you'll do next. Nobody wants to date (or read newsletters from) someone who tells the same stories over and over again.7. Optimise for Dark ModeMost people now use dark mode on their devices, which can wreak havoc on your carefully designed newsletter. Test how your newsletter appears in dark mode and adjust accordingly.<img src="/uploads/image_aecf2fec5f.png"><h2>How to Absolutely Tank Your Brand with Newsletters</h2>Want to destroy your reputation through email? Here's how to make a right mess of it:1. Email BombardmentNothing makes subscribers hit 'unsubscribe' faster than receiving multiple emails per day. Even daily newsletters need to provide exceptional value to justify their frequency.&nbsp;Remember: just because you can email someone doesn't mean you should.There's a fine line between "regular contact" and "digital stalking." Don't cross it.2. Terrible Subject LinesMisleading or clickbait subject lines might boost your open rates once, but they'll destroy trust immediately. Similarly, boring subject lines like "Monthly Newsletter - Issue #42" guarantee your email stays unread.🥱3. Inconsistent Sending PatternsDisappearing for months then suddenly flooding inboxes with content creates an impression of disorganisation and desperation. Your subscribers will have forgotten who you are and why they signed up.4. Ignoring Mobile OptimisationWith most emails now opened on mobile devices, sending newsletters that require horizontal scrolling or feature tiny, unreadable text is marketing suicide.If your subscribers need a magnifying glass and the finger dexterity of a surgeon to read your newsletter on their phone, you've already lost them. And they won't be coming back.5. Outdated DesignNewsletters that look like they were designed in 2010 signal that your brand is behind the times. Keep your design clean, modern, and aligned with current visual trends.Nothing screams "we don't invest in our marketing" like a newsletter that looks like it was cobbled together in Microsoft Word 97. Sure, it was good enough for your mum's Christmas letter, but not for your business.<img src="https://cms2.socialjems.co.uk/uploads/dont_do_that_brandon_james_f9a0d6e342.gif" alt="dont-do-that-brandon-james.gif" srcset="https://cms2.socialjems.co.uk/uploads/thumbnail_dont_do_that_brandon_james_f9a0d6e342.gif 245w,https://cms2.socialjems.co.uk/uploads/small_dont_do_that_brandon_james_f9a0d6e342.gif 500w," sizes="100vw"><h2>2025 Newsletter Trends You Simply Can't Ignore</h2>💎 Hyper-Personalisation Takes Centre StageGeneric newsletters no longer cut it. Hyper-personalisation means tailoring content to match the unique preferences and behaviours of each subscriber.&nbsp;💎 Interactive Content Enhances EngagementIncorporate elements like polls, quizzes, and dynamic images to create an immersive experience. This transforms passive reading into active participation, significantly boosting engagement rates.💎 AI-Driven Automation for Smarter CampaignsAI tools can now optimise send times, segment audiences, craft effective subject lines, and even predict future subscriber actions. This allows you to focus on strategy while automation handles the tactical implementation.💎 Sustainable and Ethical Email PracticesWith growing concerns about data privacy and digital carbon footprints, sustainable and ethical email practices are gaining traction. Be transparent about data collection, honour preferences, and optimise email sizes to reduce environmental impact.💎 Storytelling Enhances Brand ConnectionWeaving narratives into your emails creates a more compelling and memorable experience. Stories humanise your brand and make your communications more relatable, fostering a deeper emotional connection with your audience.Here’s some tips on how you can repurpose your newsletters -visual edition!&nbsp;😎<img src="/uploads/image_f69f04f984.png" alt="A person sitting on a pink and blue square with text

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AI-generated content may be incorrect."><h2>Newsletters in 2025 and Beyond</h2>Far from fading into obscurity, newsletters have evolved into sophisticated marketing tools that provide direct access to your audience in an increasingly noisy digital world. When done right, they build trust, nurture relationships, and drive business results like few other channels can.The key is to respect your subscribers' time and attention by providing genuine value, personalised experiences, and content that serves their needs rather than just your marketing objectives.As 2025 continues to unfold, the most successful newsletters will be those that combine thoughtful strategy, creative content, and technical optimisation to create experiences that subscribers genuinely look forward to receiving. And isn't that what we all want? To create content people actually get excited to see in their inbox!📩So go on, give your newsletter the love it deserves! Your subscribers (and your bottom line) will thank you for it.<img src="https://cms2.socialjems.co.uk/uploads/theres_more_rerez_c4b2fed05a.gif" alt="theres-more-rerez.gif" srcset="https://cms2.socialjems.co.uk/uploads/thumbnail_theres_more_rerez_c4b2fed05a.gif 245w,https://cms2.socialjems.co.uk/uploads/small_theres_more_rerez_c4b2fed05a.gif 500w," sizes="100vw"><h2>We Can Help with Your Newsletters!</h2>Struggling to create newsletters that actually get read? Finding yourself staring at a blank screen wondering what on earth to write?&nbsp;<a href="https://socialjems.co.uk/">SocialJems</a> can help! Our team specialises in crafting engaging, personalised newsletters that build your brand and drive real results. No more pulling your hair out or sending newsletters that make you cringe.Don't let your newsletters fade into inbox obscurity. Contact us today to discuss how we can transform your email marketing strategy and help you connect more effectively with your audience.<a href="https://socialjems.co.uk/contact">Get in touch with us to see how we can help!</a>Oh and just one last reminder….if you’re on LinkedIn, are you posting your newsletters?🤔<img src="/uploads/image_aefe70b1ec.png">

Newsletters are dead, they say. Yeah…we’re calling bull on that one!

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Newsletters are still absolutely relevant (And here’s how not to mess them up!)

<h2>💎 LINKEDIN THROWS US A CURVEBALL</h2>LinkedIn's testing something new. They're giving users the option to switch between two feed types:<ul><li>"All" - The default algorithmic feed you're used to</li><li>"My Network" - Just content from your actual connections and pages you follow</li></ul>This is basically LinkedIn admitting what we've known all along - people prefer seeing updates from people they actually know! Their own research shows users find content from peers and colleagues more engaging. Mind-blowing stuff, right?Of course, they're not completely abandoning their algorithmic ways. The "All" feed remains the default, and you'll need to manually switch to the "My Network" tab every time you open the app.&nbsp;What Does This Mean For You?If you've been wondering why your brilliant posts seem to disappear into the void, this could be why. The algorithm might be hiding your content from your actual connections in favour of "more relevant" updates (like that random bloke's 47th post about hustle culture).This change means your actual network becomes more important than ever. When people filter to only see updates from connections, you need to make sure you're on that list!Building Your Network (Without Being Insufferable)With these changes in mind, you might be wondering how to build up your LinkedIn connections. The answer isn't randomly connecting with everyone or, worse, connecting then immediately slapping them with a sales pitch (we all know that person - don't be that person).Instead, try these approaches:<ul><li>Get involved in the comments - Add something valuable to discussions</li><li>Slide into those DMs - But with actual conversation, not a copy-pasted pitch</li><li>Build genuine relationships - Remember LinkedIn is social media, emphasis on SOCIAL</li></ul>Struggling with this? That's literally what we do. From LinkedIn profile optimisation to content creation and full management, we can handle it all. Just saying.😉<img src="/uploads/image_5b56f629ba.png"><h2>💎 INSTAGRAM MIGHT BE BREAKING UP WITH REELS</h2>Instagram chief Adam Mosseri recently floated the idea of a standalone Reels app to staff. Yes, you read that right - Instagram might be splitting off its most successful feature into a separate app.This would be part of "Project Ray" which aims to take on TikTok more directly. The potential standalone app would open to a full-screen, scrolling feed of short videos, now extended to 3 minutes.Reels are currently Meta's fastest-growing content type, driving over 200 BILLION views daily across Facebook and Instagram. More than 50% of what you see in your IG feed now comes from Meta's AI recommendations, not from profiles you follow.As<a href="https://www.instagram.com/mosseri/"> Mosseri</a> himself noted: "People are sharing to feeds less, but to stories more and (even photos and videos) in messages even more still."Will this actually happen? What do you think?<img src="https://cms2.socialjems.co.uk/uploads/glitch_insta_41bb39b273.gif" alt="glitch-insta.gif" srcset="https://cms2.socialjems.co.uk/uploads/thumbnail_glitch_insta_41bb39b273.gif 245w,https://cms2.socialjems.co.uk/uploads/small_glitch_insta_41bb39b273.gif 500w," sizes="100vw"><h2>💎 SOCIALJEMS IS GROWING!</h2>Since January, we've welcomed 9 new clients from various industries - which we absolutely love! We appreciate everyone who purposely seeks us out. It means a lot because while yes, we've got a business to run, we enjoy working with people who share our attitude to life and business.We even had a client apologise for being "too nosy" - our response? Please keep being nosy! We like you asking questions and getting involved because we consider ourselves partners in your success!Though we're busy, we still have some space for new clients. We don't want to burn out our team, so we're growing steadily. If you're looking for marketing help this year, get in touch now before we put you on the waiting list again (like we did last year...and the year before&nbsp;😂).Big shout out to our founder Jem - she's been working hard (sometimes WAY too hard) but it's really paid off. Well done Jem!<h2>💎 TEAM UPDATES</h2><h3>💎 THE JEM OF ALL JEMS: JEM</h3>Jem's made a big change this year and started booking actual holidays rather than just taking the odd day off here and there. From an Airbnb with a thermal spa to a girls' weekend with two of her closest friends (who she actually met through LinkedIn!), she's finally embracing some well-deserved downtime.She'll also be celebrating the first networking event of the year for Social Games on May 15th. She's also booked Bucharest for Josh's mum's birthday. Busy times ahead!😀Plus, she's working on something exciting with a well-known LinkedIn personality - they're planning a LinkedIn Live event together covering video marketing and content creation. Oh okay, who are we kidding we have to tell you! It’s Ryan from First Frame! So, if you want to learn how to create some epic video content on your phone, and you want to learn how to effectively use them to not only increase your brand awareness but personal brand awareness too…then this might be for you!Keep your eyes peeled for updates, and if you aren’t already following&nbsp;<a href="https://www.linkedin.com/in/jem-bevan1/">Jem on LinkedIn</a>, we recommend you do, you’ll get the updates from her first.😀<img src="/uploads/image_d479919325.png"><img src="/uploads/image_3fbeb4c99a.png"><h3>💎&nbsp;SARAH (THE MORGENMUFFEL)</h3>Our resident morning-grouch Sarah has booked her driving test, which she's both excited and nervous about. The hunt for her perfect dog continues (something she mentions approximately 67 times per day).🤣&nbsp;Sarah also welcomed some friends to her new home - friends she's known for 16 years who are scattered around the country, so it was special to have them all in one room together.PS she also made her second-ever charcuterie board. Who doesn’t love cheese.🧀<img src="/uploads/image_11f64e785e.png"><img src="/uploads/image_36718febd8.png"><h3>💎 SARAH (TWINNIE)</h3>Twinnie celebrated her partner Bryan's birthday, which may or may not have involved some swimming pool shenanigans.&nbsp;Her rescue dog Luna and her surprise puppies are doing really well and growing fast. The only problem? Sarah wants to keep ALL of the puppies because she loves them so much. (As you can tell, we're all massive animal lovers here!)🐶<img src="/uploads/image_36aa55a603.png"><img src="/uploads/image_4fbc58fd70.png"><h3>💎 CATH</h3>Cath is over the moon to share that she officially became a mum on February 11th, 2025!&nbsp;🥳 Her little princess has finally arrived, and her heart is completely full. As you'd expect with a newborn, there have been plenty of sleepless nights, but she says every moment is worth it.&nbsp;She's soaking in all the love and joy and couldn't be happier!<img src="/uploads/image_3f05572b14.png"><h2>💎 THE SOCIAL GAMES: SUMMER EDITION!</h2>Networking in sunshine? Count us in!😎 The Social Games is back for summer because networking is always wayyy more fun when the sun is shining.(Well, this is England so it might be rain…but we remain positive.)Mark your calendars for 15th May because this is going to be special. Not only will Jem and Ryan be there, but we've also got Shaun joining us for another epic LinkUp SocialGames collab! Three hosts means triple the fun, and they’re pulling out all the stops to make this bigger and better than ever before.What makes The Social Games different from your typical networking event?<ul><li>No hard sells</li><li>No boring pitches</li><li>No promotional material shoved in your face</li><li>Just good vibes, games, and genuine connections!</li></ul>It's all about boogieing, playing games, and networking with like-minded individuals in the heart of Leeds. The connections you make here aren't just business cards in your pocket – they're relationships that could transform your business (and possibly your social calendar too).Previous attendees have walked away with valuable contacts, exciting collaborations, and in many cases, actual friendships. Who said business networking can't be the highlight of your month?Ready to join the fun?Tickets are limited and if history has taught us anything, they'll vanish faster than free drinks at an open bar.<a href="https://www.eventbrite.co.uk/e/the-summer-social-games-tickets-1286652725939?aff=oddtdtcreator">CLICK HERE TO GET YOUR TICKET</a>&nbsp;So what are you waiting for? If you've currently got 15th May free in your diary, book your ticket now and come join the most refreshing networking event in Leeds!See you there – bring your business cards and your best dance moves!&nbsp;❤️<a href="https://www.eventbrite.co.uk/e/the-summer-social-games-tickets-1286652725939?aff=oddtdtcreator">https://www.eventbrite.co.uk/e/the-summer-social-games-tickets-1286652725939?aff=oddtdtcreator</a><img src="/uploads/image_d1e97ee3f9.png"><h2>💎 NOW FOR ONE LAST CHEEKY SELL</h2>Whether you need LinkedIn profile optimisation, full LinkedIn management, content creation, article writing, or anything else social media related - we've got you covered.Think of us as your social media sidekicks, ready to swoop in and make your online presence shine without you having to stress about it. Our approach is personal, professional, and occasionally involves questionable GIF choices (we make no apologies for this).Ready to chat about how we can help?&nbsp;<a href="https://socialjems.co.uk/contact">Get in touch</a> before we're fully booked again!<hr>Follow us: <a href="https://www.linkedin.com/company/social-jem-s/?viewAsMember=true">LinkedIn</a> <a href="https://www.instagram.com/thesocialjems/">Instagram</a> <a href="https://www.facebook.com/SocialJems/">Facebook</a> <a href="https://www.tiktok.com/@socialjems1">TikTok</a>Want to receive our newsletter directly? Just contact us and ask to be signed up!<img src="https://cms2.socialjems.co.uk/uploads/love_ecb2cae91e.gif" alt="love.gif" srcset="https://cms2.socialjems.co.uk/uploads/thumbnail_love_ecb2cae91e.gif 140w," sizes="100vw">&nbsp;

Welcome back to our monthly rundown of what's happening in the world of social media, plus our usual dose of marketing tips and team gossip. We've got plenty to cover this month, so let's dive straight in!

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Feed Filters & Real Splitters: What's new with LinkedIn, Instagram & the SocialJems Team

Even cat sits for you every now and then. &nbsp;In the other corner, there's some random Dave from an online ad who's got a fancy website and approximately 47 certifications. They're both qualified, both charge the same, but who are you going to call? (And no, not Ghostbusters, though they did have fantastic branding.)👻If you picked Bob, congratulations - you're like 99% of humans who prefer working with people they actually know and trust. Mind-blowing stuff, right?<img src="https://cms2.socialjems.co.uk/uploads/ghostbusters_aim_5b379e8be1.gif" alt="ghostbusters-aim.gif" srcset="https://cms2.socialjems.co.uk/uploads/thumbnail_ghostbusters_aim_5b379e8be1.gif 245w,https://cms2.socialjems.co.uk/uploads/small_ghostbusters_aim_5b379e8be1.gif 500w," sizes="100vw"><h2>💎The Cold, Hard Truth About Business Personality&nbsp;</h2>Let's rip off this plaster quickly: while 85% of companies think they're absolutely smashing it at the personal touch, only 60% of customers agree. That's a bigger gap than your manager's understanding of what you actually do all day. It's like thinking you're a brilliant dancer after three glasses of wine - the reality might be slightly different from your perception.The numbers don't lie (even though we sometimes wish they would):&nbsp;💎 71% of customers expect personalised experiences&nbsp;💎 76% get properly miffed when they don't get them&nbsp;💎 49% of Gen Z would rather eat their own shoes than buy from brands offering impersonal experiences&nbsp;💎 Personal branding can reduce customer acquisition costs by 28% (because actually being likeable is cheaper than paying for ads - who knew?)Want more stats?&nbsp;<a href="https://www.contentful.com/blog/personalization-statistics/">Click here</a><img src="/uploads/image_dee0bc6998.png"><h2>💎Why Being Human Actually Matters (Sorry, Corporate Robots)</h2>Look, when was the last time you got excited about receiving a "Dear Valued Customer" email? Exactly - never. And if you did, we need to have a serious chat about your life choices. People don't want to interact with faceless corporate entities that sound like they've swallowed a business textbook and regurgitated it all over LinkedIn. They want real humans who understand that life isn't all PowerPoint presentations and synergistic growth strategies.And here's a wild thought - maybe, just maybe, your customers would rather work with someone who admits they sometimes have bad hair days and occasionally sends emails with typos, than someone who pretends they emerged fully formed from a corporate handbook, wearing a pressed suit and spouting buzzwords.<h2>💎The Psychology Bit (Because Science Makes Everything Sound Fancier)</h2>Our brains are wired to connect with stories and people, not corporate jargon and logo designs. When you share personal content, you're not just another business - you're a character in your customer's story. Preferably the hero, not the villain who keeps sending them automated emails at 3 AM.<h2>💎How to Actually Show Your Personality (Without Looking Like a Complete Muppet)</h2>1. Document Your Reality (Yes, Even the Messy Bits)💎 Share your morning chaos (we know you're not really "crushing it" at 6 AM)&nbsp;💎 Show your workspace (strategic coffee cup rings included)&nbsp;💎 Talk about your actual challenges (not just the humble-brag ones)2. Behind-the-Scenes Truth Bombs💎 Show how you really prepare for client meetings (panic and all)&nbsp;💎 Share your planning processes (including the "where did I put that file?" moments)&nbsp;💎 Document team brainstorming sessions (yes, even the ones that go completely off the rails)3. Team Spotlights That Don't Make Everyone Cringe💎 Share actual hobbies (not just "I love working here!")&nbsp;💎 Highlight real achievements (including that time someone managed to not burn the office microwave)&nbsp;💎 Show how different personalities make your business workThe Do's and Don'ts (Because Every Article Needs a List)Do:💎 Share genuine moments (even the awkward ones)&nbsp;💎 Respond like a human being (not a chatbot on steroids)&nbsp;💎 Show your expertise through real examples&nbsp;💎 Be consistent (but not robotically so)&nbsp;💎 Include your team (they're humans too, presumably)Don't:💎 Fake authenticity (we can smell it from a mile away💎 Ignore negative feedback (pretending it doesn't exist won't make it go away)&nbsp;💎 Copy others' styles (be yourself, unless you're terrible - then maybe we should talk)<img src="https://cms2.socialjems.co.uk/uploads/dont_pretend_kanan_gill_314d2a4427.gif" alt="dont-pretend-kanan-gill.gif" srcset="https://cms2.socialjems.co.uk/uploads/thumbnail_dont_pretend_kanan_gill_314d2a4427.gif 156w,https://cms2.socialjems.co.uk/uploads/small_dont_pretend_kanan_gill_314d2a4427.gif 500w," sizes="100vw"><h2>💎 Real Success Stories: When Personality Pays Off (Yes, These Actually Happened)</h2>Need proof that being yourself actually works? Buckle up, because we've got receipts.Take Sarah (our beloved "morgenmuffel" - that's German for "grumpy in the morning," and trust us, it's accurate). She once had a potential client ring her up out of the blue, not to talk business, but to chat about hay fever of all things! They'd seen her post about struggling with pollen on LinkedIn and thought, "Finally, someone who gets my seasonal suffering!"&nbsp;That casual conversation about antihistamines naturally evolved into a proper business discussion. No awkward sales pitch needed - just two sneeze-prone humans having a chat about their shared misery.&nbsp;Then there's Jem, our founder and chief dance enthusiast. She's constantly getting calls from people who've watched her LinkedIn videos of dancing and singing around the office like nobody's watching (except everyone is, because it's LinkedIn). They choose to work with her because they've seen her having a proper laugh, being herself, and not trying to maintain some ridiculous corporate facade. Before they've even had their first meeting, clients feel comfortable enough to let their own guard down. No need for that dreaded "professional" small talk - they can just be themselves, awkward dance moves and all.And you know what? We're ridiculously picky about who we work with. No aubergines&nbsp;🍆, no toxic bosses. Life's too short to work with people who make you want to bang your head against your desk repeatedly.<img src="/uploads/image_62c1474935.png"><h2>🦉The Duolingo Effect: How a Dead Owl Proved Brand Personality Isn't Dead</h2>Look, if you want proof that showing personality doesn't mean sacrificing professionalism, let's talk about the green owl that broke the internet. Yes, we're talking about Duo, Duolingo's mascot, who apparently kicked the bucket in February 2025 and created possibly the most entertaining corporate funeral ever.Here's why this is brilliant:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.duolingo.com/">Duolingo</a> took something as serious as death notifications and turned it into a viral marketing masterclass. Their announcement? "Tbh he probably died waiting for you to do your lesson, but what do we know?" Savage, hilarious, and completely on-brand.But here's where it gets interesting - other brands jumped on this. Companies started creating their own theories about how Duo met his end, turning what could have been a one-day wonder into a full-blown corporate murder mystery. Even Dua Lipa got involved, tweeting "Til' death duo part" (slow clap for that pun).Want to see what we’re talking about?&nbsp;<a href="https://www.tiktok.com/@duolingo/video/7470561342009707822">Click here.</a><img src="https://cms2.socialjems.co.uk/uploads/duo_duolingo_2bf882b943.gif" alt="duo-duolingo.gif" srcset="https://cms2.socialjems.co.uk/uploads/thumbnail_duo_duolingo_2bf882b943.gif 156w," sizes="100vw">Why This Works (And Why You Should Care)💎 It's Professional But Playful: Duolingo maintained their brand voice while participating in something utterly ridiculous&nbsp;💎 It's Relatable: Everyone knows that guilty feeling of abandoning their language lessons&nbsp;💎 It's Interactive: Other brands could join in, creating a community moment&nbsp;💎 It's Memorable: Would anyone be talking about Duolingo's latest app update? Probably notThe Takeaway For Your BusinessYou don't need to announce anyone's death to show personality (please don't). But you can:&nbsp;💎 Join trending conversations in your brand's voice&nbsp;💎 Create content that acknowledges your industry's inside jokes&nbsp;💎 Interact with other brands in a way that stays professional but shows character💎 Use your brand's 'mascot' or identity to tell storiesAnd the best part? Duolingo's "devastating news" probably got more engagement than any serious marketing campaign could dream of. All because they weren't afraid to have a laugh and let their brand personality shine through.<h2>💎Making It Work in the Real World</h2>👔 For Professional Services:Share client success stories that don't sound like they were written by AI. Talk about the actual process, including the bits where everything went wrong before it went right.🎨 For Creative Industries:Document your creative process, including the moments when you questioned all your life choices. Show works in progress, even the ones that look like they were created by a toddler with a crayon.🏪 For Retail:Introduce the real faces behind the counter. Share product origin stories that don't sound like they were copied from a Wikipedia article.🔮 The Future (Because We're All Apparently Futurists Now)With AI taking over everything (hello, robot overlords), being genuinely human is your superpower. While chatbots handle the basics, your personality is what stops people from replacing you with an app.📏 Measuring Your Success (Because Numbers Still Matter)Yes, personality is important, but we're still running businesses here. Keep an eye on:&nbsp;💎 Engagement rates on personal vs. corporate content&nbsp;💎 Comment quality and conversation depth&nbsp;💎 Direct messages and enquiries&nbsp;💎 Client retention rates&nbsp;💎 Referral business growthJust remember - these numbers should come naturally when you're being genuine. Don't get so caught up in the metrics that you forget to be human.<img src="/uploads/image_c2c39708a7.png"><h2>💎 Social Media as a Conversation (Not a Corporate Presentation)</h2>Think about it - when you go to a networking event, do you talk like you're giving a PowerPoint presentation? (If you do, please stop immediately.) Social media is just a digital networking event. Talk like a human being, not like you've swallowed a business manual.Remember: sounding "professional" doesn't mean being boring. The world moved on from "yours sincerely" a long time ago, and nobody's business reputation has crumbled because they didn't end their email with "Kind regards."<h2>💎&nbsp;Final Thoughts (The Bit Where We Get Serious for a Moment)</h2>Stop hiding behind your logo and corporate speak. Your customers aren't just buying what you sell - they're buying into you and your story. Make it interesting, make it real, and for heaven's sake, make it human.The best part? You don't need to be perfect. You just need to be genuine. Start sharing, stay real, and watch as those authentic connections transform into loyal customers who actually want to work with you.Still not convinced? Think about it, they've all seen your posts about work. They've clicked that link to your website approximately 47 times. They know exactly what you do - probably better than their own job description at this point.So why aren't they all beating down your door?Here's the thing: in a world where everyone's selling something, people aren't just buying your service - they're buying into YOU. Those personal posts scattered between your sales content? They're not just filler. They're the reason someone chooses you over that other person who does exactly the same thing.When you share that post about your morning chaos, someone out there is thinking "Finally, a real human being!" When you admit to having a complete meltdown over your printer not working (we've all been there), someone's nodding along, thinking "This is someone who gets it."It's like dating - sure, plenty of people look good on paper, but you want someone you can actually stand being around. The same goes for business. Your potential clients have options, and they're choosing based on who they want to spend their time (and money) with.Think about it - when you're scrolling through LinkedIn, what makes you stop? Another "10 tips for success" post, or that honest story about someone's massive business fail that turned into a valuable lesson? We're all drawn to authenticity because it's becoming rarer than a peaceful inbox.So yes, keep sharing your expertise. Keep showing what you can do. But don't forget to show who you are. Your tribe isn't looking for perfection - they're looking for someone real. Someone they can relate to. Someone who gets them.And those who don't get you? They were never your tribe anyway.(And let's be honest - would you really want to work with someone who can't appreciate your collection of questionable dance moves or your slightly unhealthy obsession with office stationery?)Remember: in a world where every business is trying to look perfect, being genuinely yourself is your biggest advantage. Even if yourself is a bit weird. Actually, especially if yourself is a bit weird.Ready to get real with your business presence? Brilliant. Start with one personal post this week and build from there. Your authentic voice is your most powerful marketing tool - even if it sometimes snorts when it laughs.<img src="/uploads/image_cbe8f6f894.png">Want to chat about making your business more personable?&nbsp;<a href="https://socialjems.co.uk/contact">Get in touch.</a> We promise we're actual humans (most days) who can help you show off your personality without scaring everyone away.

Imagine you need someone to fix your dodgy plumbing. In one corner, you've got Bob from down the road - lovely chap, always up for a chat, known him for years.

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Why Showing Your Personal Side is Essential for Business Success in 2025 and every other year)

Between endless rain, post-Christmas bank accounts crying into their empty wallets, and those "new year, new me" people still going strong at the gym (showoffs), we're all breathing a collective sigh of relief that February's finally here.This month, we're diving into the digital playground with all the latest social media gossip. We'll spill the tea on TikTok's latest news and share some LinkedIn tips that won't make you sound like a corporate robot, and reveal our top Instagram hacks that actually work. Not to mention catching you up on what our team's been up to.So grab your coffee (or wine, we won't judge), get comfy, and let's jump into what's been happening in the world of social media. And unlike January, we promise this won't feel like it's dragging on forever!<h2>💎The TikTok Drama That Wasn't&nbsp;</h2>Remember January when everyone thought TikTok was getting booted from America?&nbsp;What a rollercoaster that turned out to be. TikTok creators were having meltdowns left and right, sharing their deepest darkest secrets like it was the last day of school. Spoiler alert: TikTok's still here, and those creators are probably regretting spilling their tea.The whole saga was better than any Netflix drama - we had tears, confessions, dramatic goodbyes, and even some influencers revealing their secret sauce (turns out most of them just use the same five audio tracks on repeat, who knew?).But here's what actually happened: While everyone was panic-posting their farewell videos, the powers that be were busy sorting out the technical bits behind the scenes. Now TikTok's not just surviving - it's thriving. Those 170 million American users can keep scrolling, dancing, and making questionable life choices on camera.The plot twist? This isn't even the first time TikTok's faced a ban. At this point, TikTok bans are becoming like those friends who say they're leaving the party but never actually go home.And of course, we’re thrilled that the ban didn’t go through. Especially when we have clients in America who want help with TikTok… would kinda have ruined things for us too.&nbsp;What This Means For Your Business<ul><li>Keep Creating Content: TikTok isn't going anywhere (for now). If you've been holding back on your TikTok strategy, it's time to dive back in.</li><li>Backup Your Content: Though the ban didn't stick this time, it's always smart to save your content across multiple platforms. Think of it as digital insurance - nobody likes it, but you'll be glad you have it.</li><li>Stay Flexible: Social media landscape changes faster than British weather. Having a presence across multiple platforms is essential.</li></ul>Looking ForwardWhile TikTok survived this round, the social media world never sits still. New AI developments and privacy concerns keep popping up like bad pennies. But for now, you can keep posting those dance challenges and behind-the-scenes videos - just maybe think twice before sharing your deepest secrets next time there's ban talk.<img src="https://cms2.socialjems.co.uk/uploads/hitmans_bodyguard_hitmans_bodyguard_gi_fs_8644071a70.gif" alt="hitmans-bodyguard-hitmans-bodyguard-gi-fs.gif" srcset="https://cms2.socialjems.co.uk/uploads/thumbnail_hitmans_bodyguard_hitmans_bodyguard_gi_fs_8644071a70.gif 240w," sizes="100vw"><h2>💎LinkedIn's New News Banner</h2>LinkedIn's rolling out a fancy new news banner at the top of your mobile feed. It's like having a mini newspaper delivered to your phone, minus the ink-stained fingers and crossword puzzles.The banner shows rotating headlines about trending topics, handpicked by LinkedIn's editorial team. Think of it as your professional gossip column - except instead of celebrity breakups, you're catching up on industry trends and market updates.&nbsp;For now, this feature is only available in the US, Canada, and India. (Sorry, rest of the world - you'll have to find another way to procrastinate at work).&nbsp;What This Means For Your Business:💎 A new way to stay on top of industry trends without looking like you're slacking off💎 More opportunities to join trending conversations (and show off your expertise)💎 Another reason to check LinkedIn during meetings&nbsp;💎 Perfect for spotting topics your audience cares about💎 Brilliant for timing your content to match trending discussions<h2>💎Instagram's Identity Crisis: The Great Reels Length Debate&nbsp;</h2>Instagram's having another one of its moments. You know, like when you tell everyone you're going on a diet but then order takeaway because "the rules have changed." First, they said Reels over 90 seconds were basically social media suicide. Now? They're suddenly all for these three-minute masterpieces.Here's What's Actually Changed:💎 Instagram will now recommend longer Reels in Explore&nbsp;💎 You can post Reels up to 3 minutes long&nbsp;💎 They're promising equal visibility for longer content&nbsp;Why The Sudden Change?Maybe they've realised people actually enjoy watching longer content. Or perhaps they're eyeing up TikTok's territory again. Either way, it's a bit like your mate who swore they'd never get on Instagram and now posts 17 Stories a day.What This Means For You:💎 Feel free to stretch out your content (but maybe don't bore us to tears)💎 Test different lengths to see what your audience prefers💎 Keep a mix of short and long content in your strategy💎 Remember: just because you can make a 3-minute Reel doesn't mean you shouldLooking ForwardWhilst social media platforms play musical chairs with their features, the key is staying adaptable. And maybe keeping a sense of humour about the whole thing.<img src="/uploads/image_6b6524c403.png"><img src="/uploads/image_cb0ffada3e.png"><h2>💎LinkedIn In 2025</h2>Remember when LinkedIn was just an endless stream of "I'm thrilled to announce" posts and awkward office handshake photos? Well, times have changed, and LinkedIn's gone a bit rogue - in the best possible way.What's Happening on LinkedIn Now:💎 310 million active users (and not all of them posting about their morning routine)💎 120,000 posts shared every minute&nbsp;💎 Video posts getting 20x more shares&nbsp;💎 7 minutes 42 seconds average session time (longer if you're procrastinating)Why Should You Care?The platform's having a proper identity shift. Think of it as that mate who used to wear suits to the pub but now shows up in trainers - still professional, just more fun about it.What's Working Now:💎 Behind-the-scenes content (because everyone loves a good office dog photo)💎 Employee stories that don't sound like they're written by HR💎 Actually funny memes (yes, on LinkedIn - wild times)💎 Comments that spark genuine conversations instead of just "Great post!&nbsp;🔥"💎 Content that shows personality&nbsp;And while everyone else is trying to copy TikTok, LinkedIn's doing its own thing. It's like watching your strict teacher start telling jokes - slightly shocking but surprisingly refreshing.Making It Work For You:💎 Mix professional insights with personality (but maybe skip the morning routine videos)💎 Share actual stories, not just corporate waffle💎 Join conversations without the "looking forward to connecting" energy💎 Create content that wouldn't make your colleagues cringe<img src="/uploads/image_d8338991ce.png"><h2>💎 The SocialJems Gang</h2>Now we’ve updated you on social media, let’s update you on the team. Starting with the one and only Jem…<h3>💎 Jem's London Adventure &amp; Welsh Escape</h3>Our fearless leader Jem ventured down to London for some LinkedIn meetups, and oh my days, what a time she had! She connected with some brilliant minds from the platform – though we suspect the wine did most of the connecting by the end of the night.Fun fact: Jem rarely drinks, so when she does... well, let's just say there were some interesting dance moves that may or may not have been documented.&nbsp;After surviving her London escapade, Jem headed off to Wales with the family for a weekend getaway. Now, Wales holds a special place in her heart – though we're not entirely sure if it's the stunning landscapes or the fact her phone barely works there. Nothing like forced digital detox to make the boss actually take a break!<img src="/uploads/image_9531b24f5c.png" alt="A group of people posing for a selfie

AI-generated content may be incorrect.">&nbsp;<img src="/uploads/image_df3ece23d9.png" alt="A group of people posing for a photo

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AI-generated content may be incorrect."><h3>💎 Our Resident Morgenmuffel: Sarah's Latest Adventures</h3>You know that moment when adult life hits you square in the face? Well, Sarah's just had her initiation into the 'homeowner club' with her first boiler crisis. Nothing says "welcome to property ownership" quite like emptying your savings on a giant metal box that makes hot water. Thrilling stuff.And speaking of empty things – Sarah's house currently has two dog beds and exactly zero dogs. Yes, you read that right. She's so excited about her future four-legged friend that she's already nesting. At this rate, the dog will have a better-furnished room than she does! We're taking bets on how many more dog accessories she'll accumulate before the actual dog arrives.&nbsp;But it's not all boiler drama and empty dog beds. Sarah took a trip down memory lane and went to see Papa Roach live with her sister. Last time she saw them, she was a teenager with questionable fashion choices (weren't we all?). This time around, she might be older, but the energy was exactly the same – though we suspect her neck might disagree after all that headbanging.Speaking of living her best life – our night owl is still adamant about her night beach adventures. The colder it gets, the more determined she seems to be. Her latest mission? Trying to convince anyone (literally anyone) to join her for a moonlit dip in the sea. So far, she's had zero takers. Can't imagine why... something about hypothermia?We've started wondering if she's secretly part polar bear. That or the cold water helps her deal with that boiler bill. Either way, if you spot someone doing a victory dance on the beach at midnight, it's probably our Sarah!<img src="/uploads/image_3f673f8b94.png">&nbsp;<img src="/uploads/image_c0aa4213c5.png" alt="A person taking a selfie

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AI-generated content may be incorrect."><h3>💎 Sarah's Surprise Puppy Plot Twist!</h3>Remember Luna, the sweet rescue dog Sarah and Bryan took in from the streets? Well, turns out she came with a few... unexpected extras. FIVE unexpected extras to be precise! That's right – Luna was secretly cooking up a puppy surprise, and now Sarah and Bryan have gone from rescue heroes to running an impromptu puppy nursery. Talk about a package deal!The new arrivals are all healthy, wiggly, and absolutely adorable (we might be slightly biased here). Luna's smashing it as a first-time mum, while Sarah and Bryan have mastered the art of tag-team puppy care. They're taking shifts like pros – though we're pretty sure their sleep schedule now consists entirely of power naps and coffee runs.Their house has transformed into Puppy Central Station, complete with round-the-clock feeding times and endless cuddle sessions. Every surface has become a potential puppy napping spot, and we're convinced they now see the world in puppy-vision.While we're over the moon about these tiny new additions, we also know that raising five puppies is no small feat. So we're sending all our love and support to the new puppy parents. And maybe some coffee. Definitely coffee.<img src="/uploads/image_dcb79fd363.png" alt="A dog lying on a blanket with puppies

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AI-generated content may be incorrect."><h3>💎 Baby Alert! Cath's New Arrival</h3>The SocialJems family just got a tiny bit bigger! If you caught&nbsp;<a href="https://socialjems.co.uk/blog/welcome-to-the-games-new-year-new-rules-same-chaos">our last newsletter</a>, you'll know Cath was counting down the days until her big delivery – and now the wait is over! Our spreadsheet queen has officially upgraded to mum status, and we couldn't be more excited for her.While Cath's swapped client meetings for midnight feeds and team catch-ups for nappy changes, she's taking to motherhood like a duck to water. No surprise there – if anyone can handle a new tiny human with the same precision as her colour-coded Excel sheets, it's Cath!Of course, we're dying to spam you all with adorable baby photos but we're restraining ourselves and giving Cath the space to soak up all those precious newborn moments.To our wonderful Cath: We know you're probably reading this during a 3am feed – take all the time you need with your little one. The SocialJems gang is here whenever you need us, whether it's for virtual hugs, emergency chocolate deliveries, or just someone to talk to who isn't speaking in baby babble.<img src="https://cms2.socialjems.co.uk/uploads/omg_baby_33194fb4c3.gif" alt="omg-baby.gif" srcset="https://cms2.socialjems.co.uk/uploads/thumbnail_omg_baby_33194fb4c3.gif 193w," sizes="100vw"><h2>💎 That's All Folks - Until Next Time!</h2>Thanks for diving into our latest newsletter and getting to know our chaotic but lovable team a bit better.&nbsp;If you're sitting there thinking your marketing could do with a dash of personality or you just want to level up your social media game, give us a shout. We promise to make it fun (and maybe share some puppy pictures while we're at it).Want to stay in the loop with more SocialJems updates? Head over to our website at:&nbsp;<a href="https://socialjems.co.uk/">https://socialjems.co.uk/</a>And keep an eye out for our next blog, coming out soon.&nbsp;😜

Welcome to February - We Made It!
Who else feels like January lasted approximately 84 years? 

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TikTok Drama, LinkedIn's Identity Crisis, and Why Our Team Can't Stay Out of Trouble

And unlike that dusty gym card, we're actually here to help you stick to this resolution!And you know what? We're totally here for it! There's nothing we love more than helping businesses figure out how to rock their online presence without having an existential crisis every time LinkedIn changes its algorithm. Again.&nbsp;So, we thought it was time to dive into the questions we keep seeing pop up.&nbsp;Consider this your ultimate guide to what you actually want to know about social media marketing (minus all the fluff and jargon).<img src="https://cms.socialjems.co.uk/uploads/kenta_kenta_seki_fca1295524.gif" alt="kenta-kenta-seki.gif"><h2>1. How Does Social Media Benefit My Business?</h2>Let's cut straight to the chase on this one.Social media isn't just another marketing tick-box - it's revolutionised how businesses connect with their customers. Gone are the days of shouting your message into the void and hoping someone hears it. Now you've got a direct line to your audience, and believe us, they're not shy about using it!What does this mean for your business? Imagine instant feedback on your products, handling customer questions before they become complaints, showing off the fantastic humans behind your brand, and understanding exactly what makes your customers tick. It's like having a focus group, customer service team, and marketing department all rolled into one glorious package.Plus (and let's be honest here), when was the last time you bought something from a company without stalking their social media first? Yeah, we thought so. Your social presence is your business's first impression - let's make it count!💪<h2>2. Which Platforms Should I Actually Be On?</h2>We see so many businesses exhausting themselves trying to maintain a presence everywhere. And yes, while we're impressed by your determination to master every social platform known to humanity (including that one you've never heard of but are convinced you need to be on), maybe - just maybe - there's a better way?Here's what you need to know: You don't need to be everywhere. gasp we know, revolutionary concept!😲 You need to be where your ideal customers hang out, doing it brilliantly. Think about it - each platform has its own unique community. While your B2B services might shine on LinkedIn, your creative brand could be stealing the show on Instagram or TikTok. It's about quality over quantity.If you're in B2B, professional services, or looking for serious networking opportunities, LinkedIn is your golden ticket. Our clients in these spaces see incredible results when they focus their energy here.For visual products, fashion, food, or creative industries? Instagram is where the magic happens. We've seen brands absolutely transform their presence by mastering the art of visual storytelling here.And if you're wondering about TikTok - yes, it's more than just dance trends. We've watched businesses skyrocket their engagement by showing their authentic, creative side on this platform.<h2>3. What IS Social Media Marketing?</h2>Forget the fancy definitions - let's talk about what this really means for you.Think of social media marketing as hosting the world's most engaging party. You're not just throwing content out there; you're starting conversations, building relationships, and creating a community around your brand. It's where your business personality gets to shine, and where potential customers get to fall in love with what makes you special.<h2>4. How's It Different From Traditional Marketing?</h2>Remember when marketing was like throwing spaghetti at a wall and hoping something would stick? Those days are gone, friends. (Not that we’ve ever believed in the ‘just-toss-it-method’.)Traditional marketing gives you a megaphone to shout your message. Social media marketing gives you a comfy sofa where you can chat with your customers, understand their needs, and build real relationships. Plus, you can track exactly what's working, adjust on the fly, and see results in real-time.And just a friendly piece of advice, don’t throw spaghetti at a wall…it’s too tasty to waste.😀<img src="https://cms.socialjems.co.uk/uploads/throw_spaghetti_at_wall_2154d28cfa.gif" alt="throw-spaghetti-at-wall.gif"><h2>5. What Are the Real Benefits Though?</h2>Let's get specific here, because this is where it gets exciting.The immediate win? You're building genuine connections with people who actually want to hear from you. No more shouting into the void - you're creating conversations that matter.Long-term? You're building a tribe of loyal customers who not only love what you do but tell others about it too. And when 61% of consumers are more likely to buy from brands they follow on social media, that's not just nice to have - it's gold dust for your business.<h2>6. How Do I Know If It's Actually Working?</h2>This is where we need to get real about what success looks like. Having thousands of followers might look impressive, but if they're not turning into customers, what's the point?Your success metrics should directly connect to your business goals. Looking to build brand awareness? Track your reach and the conversations happening around your brand. Focused on sales? Monitor your conversions and website traffic from social channels.<h2>7. What's This Going to Cost Me?</h2>Ah, everyone's favourite question! Right after "Why isn't my post going viral?" and "Do I really need to dance on TikTok?"Let's be completely transparent here, because that's exactly how we do things at SocialJems (shocking, we know, a marketing company that actually tells you the truth).Social media marketing is an investment, whether you're spending time or money (and usually, it's both - surprise!). When you're doing it yourself, you're investing hours of precious time that could be spent elsewhere in your business, like finally organising that drawer of random cables you've been avoiding since 2019. When you're working with professionals like us, you're investing in expertise and results - and the freedom to never have to figure out why your Instagram Reels keep posting sideways.The actual investment varies based on what you need. Some businesses rock it with a few strategic posts a week, while others need daily content across multiple platforms. It's why we customise every package - your business deserves a strategy that fits like a glove, not some one-size-fits-all solution.<h2>8. I'm Completely New to This - Where Do I Even Start?</h2>First things first - breathe! We've got your back on this one.Start by getting crystal clear on what you want to achieve. More sales? Better brand awareness? A stronger connection with your customers? This clarity will guide everything else.From there, let's get strategic about your platforms. We've seen businesses transform their results by focusing their energy where it matters most, rather than trying to juggle every social network under the sun. Our Social Shizzle sessions can help you nail the basics and build confidence on the platforms that'll give you the best returns. It's about working smarter, not harder!<h2>9. Do I Really Need a Blog?</h2>Yes! (No, that rustling sound you hear isn't every business owner collectively groaning at the thought of more writing.)A blog is your social media content goldmine. One well-written post can fuel weeks of social content - which means you can stop panic-posting pictures of your office plant just to "stay consistent." Plus, it positions you as an expert in your field, drives traffic to your website, and gives your audience real value. And no, sharing memes doesn't count as blogging, no matter how relatable they are.Just look at what we do at SocialJems - our blogs cover everything from LinkedIn changes to industry insights, and each one spawns multiple social posts, starts conversations, and brings new clients our way.<a href="https://socialjems.co.uk/blog">Click here to see our previous blogs.</a><img src="/uploads/image_3d91c749ac.png" alt="A person sitting in front of a typewriter

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Description automatically generated"><h2>10. Do I Have to Share My Personal Life Online?</h2>Ah, the eternal question that keeps business owners awake at night (along with "Did I actually schedule that post, or did I just dream it?")You don't need to share every detail of your life (we promise your audience will survive without knowing what you had for lunch). But showing the genuine humans behind your business? That's pure marketing gold. It's about sharing the moments that matter - the client wins, the behind-the-scenes glimpses of your work, the real challenges you've overcome. Because when people connect with you as a person, they're more likely to trust you as a business.We've seen it firsthand at&nbsp;<a href="https://socialjems.co.uk/">SocialJems</a> - when Jem shares stories about her journey as a business owner and single mum, or when Sarah talks about her move to Norfolk to be near the sea, it creates real connections. These moments of authenticity help our clients see us as real people they can trust with their business.Want to see what we mean by personal posts?&nbsp;Check out Jem’s posts&nbsp;<a href="https://www.linkedin.com/in/jem-bevan1/">here</a>.&nbsp;And check out Sarah’s posts&nbsp;<a href="https://www.linkedin.com/in/sarahbostockmarketing/">here</a>.&nbsp;<a href="https://www.linkedin.com/posts/jem-bevan1_chilledweekend-socialmedia-socialjems-activity-7261636578681262080-s6LN?utm_source=social_share_sheet&amp;utm_medium=member_desktop_web"><img src="/uploads/image_f6776153cc.png" alt="A person smiling with a hat and a person in the background

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Description automatically generated"></a><h2>💎Ready to Level Up Your Social Media Game?</h2>If reading this has got your mind racing with possibilities (or maybe mild panic - we've all been there), remember that you don't have to figure it all out alone.Whether you're just starting out or looking to take your social media presence to the next level, we're here to help make it happen.&nbsp;<a href="https://socialjems.co.uk/contact">Drop us a message</a> - let's turn those social media dreams into reality.Got a question we haven't covered? Burning to know more about something specific? We're always up for a chat! Our DMs are open, and we're ready to help you shine online.&nbsp;<h2>💎 Why Choose Us? Because We're Not Your Average Marketing Agency&nbsp;</h2>Choosing a marketing agency can feel a bit like online dating. Everyone's putting their best foot forward, promising the world, and claiming they're "not like other agencies." (Eye roll, we know.)But at SocialJems, we actually mean it. We're not a faceless corporation with a fancy office and even fancier coffee machine (we say that, but Sarah did just buy a fancy coffee machine). We're a team of actual humans who get excited about your wins, celebrate your successes, and occasionally share pictures of our pets in the group chat. When Jem started SocialJems from her kitchen table as a single mum, she had one goal - to help businesses grow without the usual marketing agency faff.<img src="/uploads/image_83f8a8b555.png" alt="A purple and yellow poster with pictures of women and text

Description automatically generated"><h2>💎What Makes Us Different?</h2>Remember that time you called a big company and had to explain your situation to five different people? Yeah, that's not us. When you work with us, you're working with a team that actually knows who you are. We don't do cookie-cutter solutions because, surprisingly enough, what works for a hip coffee shop might not work for a corporate law firm. (Although we'd love to see lawyers doing TikTok dances... just saying.)Here's something you might not expect from a marketing agency - we actually turn down clients sometimes. gasp Why? Because if we don't think we're the right fit for your business, we'll tell you. We'd rather have an awkward conversation now than waste your time and money on a strategy that won't work for you.<h2>💎Ready to Make 2025 Your Year?</h2>So, there you have it! If you've made it this far, you're either really interested in social media marketing or you're procrastinating from something else (we won't judge - we've all been there).Got questions? Want to chat about your social media dreams and schemes? Or maybe you're just sitting there thinking 'finally, a marketing team that speaks my language!'Whatever's on your mind, we're here for it. And since everyone else is setting their 2025 intentions right now, why not make 'actually nail this social media thing' one of yours?<a href="https://socialjems.co.uk/contact">Drop us a message</a>. Plus, we're much more fun to talk to than that chatbot you've been arguing with on another website.&nbsp;After all, if you're going to kick off 2025 with a social media glow-up, you might as well do it with a team that gets you. Just saying...&nbsp;😉<img src="https://cms.socialjems.co.uk/uploads/minions_strong_30ab44ba2f.gif" alt="minions-strong.gif">

Our inbox has been absolutely flooded since January 1st - because apparently 'sort out social media' is the new 'get a gym membership.'

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Your Top 10 Social Media Marketing Questions Answered

Cracks knuckles…So, you want to dominate digital marketing in 2025? Fair warning - this isn't a game for the faint-hearted. We've watched countless businesses get eliminated because they thought posting once on LinkedIn and throwing money at Meta ads would cut it. (Spoiler alert: it didn't.)<h2>🟢 GREEN LIGHT: Your Winning Moves</h2>Round 1:&nbsp;&nbsp;Gone are the days when you could shout into the void and hope someone important heard you (well we never thought it worked in the first place.) In 2025, 76% of B2B buyers are making decisions based on trust, which means you need to know exactly who you're talking to. We're talking deep-dive research here - understanding their tech stack, catching their coffee-break browsing habits, and figuring out where they go when they're stuck at 3 AM looking for solutions.Round 2:&nbsp;Here's where most players get eliminated. They think churning out generic "thought leadership" posts will save them. Wrong. The winners? They're seeing 92% ROI because they've cracked the code: create content that makes your audience feel seen, heard, and slightly uncomfortable about how well you understand their problems.Mix up your content like you're crafting the perfect playlist. Start with meaty case studies that show real results (not just vanity metrics), sprinkle in some webinars that solve actual problems (instead of hour-long sales pitches), and top it off with blogs that don't sound like they were written by a robot having an existential crisis. And as always, don’t forget the personal content! You are human, right?Round 3:&nbsp;Want to see your competitors sweat? Start playing in multiple arenas. Companies using three channels are seeing 23% more ROI, but push that to five channels and you're looking at a whopping 35% boost. It's like having extra lives in the game - you might stumble on Instagram, but your LinkedIn and email game keeps you in the running. But remember, don’t just play in every arena going, find out which ones will work best for you and your business.&nbsp;<img src="/uploads/image_fdbe1d9f18.png" alt="A red and blue envelopes with an octopus cartoon

Description automatically generated"><h2>🔴 RED LIGHT: Ways to Get Yourself Eliminated</h2>The fastest way to get eliminated? Thinking you can win by copying what worked in 2023. The second fastest? Treating every platform like it's the same game. Your LinkedIn audience isn't on LinkedIn for the same reason they're on TikTok (shocking, we know).<h3>💎&nbsp;The Ultimate Power-Up: First-Party Data</h3>This is your golden ticket. While your competitors are playing pin the tail on the donkey with their marketing budget, you're sitting on a goldmine of actual customer insights. Every click, scroll, and engagement tells a story. Learn to read these signals and you'll be playing chess while everyone else is playing checkers.<h3>💎 The Final Round: Adaptation</h3>The game keeps changing - what worked yesterday might get you eliminated tomorrow. The winners in 2025 aren't the ones with the biggest budgets or the fanciest tools. They're the ones who can pivot faster than a contestant in Red Light, Green Light.Think you're ready to play? We've been in this game since before it was cool. We know where the traps are, which moves win, and most importantly - how to keep you from getting eliminated.Want to level up your marketing game? Give us a shout. We promise not to make you play the honeycomb challenge. Though we might make you sit through one of our strategy sessions (they're more fun than they sound).<img src="https://cms.socialjems.co.uk/uploads/treyreloaded_af71702583.gif" alt="treyreloaded.gif"><h3>💎&nbsp;Behind the Scenes: Holiday Survival Mode</h3>While you lot were fighting over the last mince pie, our team was busy creating their own chaos. Time for some team gossip...The Marketing Mastermind Goes Rogue&nbsp;Jem kicked off the festivities with an adventure to Camden (because apparently Yorkshire wasn't chaotic enough). She dragged Josh and Charlie along for what we can only assume was a mission to find the weirdest and most wonderful corners of London's alternative scene.Christmas Day saw Jem dominating the kitchen with her famous roasties. (If you've never had one, you haven't lived.)Speaking of dominating, she hosted New Year's Eve at hers and all that relaxation must've charged her batteries because she's stormed into 2025 like a player with a point to prove. First week back? Two new clients and someone signing up for training. While most of us were still trying to remember our passwords, she's out here making power moves. Well done Jem!<img src="/uploads/image_dc06ee0a5a.png" alt="A person holding a glass of wine

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Description automatically generated"><h3>💎 Behind the Morgenmuffel's Madness</h3>Spoiler alert: it involves coffee. Lots of coffee.Moving on to Sarah (aka our resident Morgenmuffel and content genius) who's been on her own emotional rollercoaster. She marked Joe's anniversary surrounded by his family, proving that some bonds just get stronger with time. And yes, she got some quality cuddles with Bart the dog - because sometimes four-legged therapy is the best kind.New Year's Eve? Oh, that's her jam - even if she did leave the planning until last minute. But in classic Sarah style, she somehow turned last-minute chaos into an epic night of pre-drinks and partying. Then came the booze pong tournament where her inner competitor emerged (seriously, who knew she could get that intense over plastic cups and ping pong balls?).Speaking of surprises, after SEVEN years of debating (yes, we've been counting), she finally caved and bought a fancy coffee machine - she named it Tyrone. Now she's on some self-appointed mission to sample every coffee bean in Britain. Taking bets on when we'll find her swinging from the ceiling after one espresso too many.<img src="/uploads/image_e4bed9e257.png" alt="A group of people posing for a photo

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Description automatically generated"><h3>💎 Cath's Countdown Begins</h3>Grab your calendars - Cath's about to level up to 'Mum Status' this February. While most of us were nursing New Year's hangovers, she's been prepping for the ultimate game changer (and we don't mean a new marketing strategy).She's diving into the wildest balancing act of 2025 - juggling baby cuddles with client work. Though if anyone can master this multiplayer mode, it's Cath. She's already got the whole organised-superhuman thing down pat (seriously, have you seen her spreadsheets?).And because the SocialJems squad isn't your typical corporate snooze-fest, we're all here for it. No stuffy policies or awkward conversations - just flexible working and enough support to build a bridge to the moon. Though we might draw the line at babysitting duties... unless bribery is involved.&nbsp;😉February's going to be epic. And Cath? You've got this. We're just wondering if the little one will inherit your love for colour-coded organisation systems.<img src="/uploads/image_b4176ef352.png" alt="A person holding a picture frame

Description automatically generated"><h3>💎 Twinnie's Tales</h3>Meanwhile, Sarah (aka Twinnie) decided the holidays were the perfect excuse to throw another epic party - because apparently one Sarah hosting New Year celebrations wasn't enough chaos for 2024.And while most people drag themselves back to work in January with all the enthusiasm of a sloth on sleeping pills, she's bouncing in like someone switched her coffee to rocket fuel. Who gets excited about coming back to work? Twinnie does. (We're not sure whether to be impressed or concerned about her sanity.)We'd love to tell you more about her holiday adventures, but she's already disappeared into a whirlwind of work tasks. Classic Twinnie - can't keep her away from a to-do list for long.<img src="/uploads/image_00bff0bdfe.png" alt="A person holding a sparkler

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Description automatically generated"><h3>💎 A Different Kind of Game: Where Everyone's a Winner</h3>Speaking of game-changers, we've got a side quest that's turning into something spectacular - Be Kind Give Time. Think of it as the anti-Squid Game: nobody gets eliminated, everybody wins, and there's zero chance of falling through fake glass (thankfully).It all kicked off in 2023 when Wilkos dropped their plot twist, leaving their team facing an unexpected final round. That's when our very own Jem (in true player 001 style) reached out to Zoe Starbuck with a power-up - one hour of LinkedIn help.That single hour created more buzz than a TikTok trend. Zoe took those LinkedIn tricks and shared them faster than gaming strategies on Discord, helping her colleagues level up their careers. While Zoe went on to join forces with her husband Paul at Starbuck &amp; Associates (where they're busy transforming executives into boss-level players), something bigger was brewing.Enter Be Kind Give Time - the charity equivalent of finding the ultimate cheat code. Founded by our dynamic trio:<ul><li>Jem Bevan (our resident marketing mastermind)</li><li>Paul Starbuck (the executive coaching guru)</li><li>Zoe Starbuck (the inspiration behind this whole epic saga)</li></ul>The rules? Ridiculously simple. No glass bridges, no creepy dolls - just professionals donating one hour monthly to businesses who need a boost. It's like having a team of high-level players sharing their winning strategies with the newcomers.What started as one player helping another has evolved into the most wholesome multiplayer game we've ever seen. We're talking hundreds of hours donated, countless businesses levelled up, and zero eliminations - now that's our kind of game!🎮 Ready to Join This Epic Side Quest?Whether you're stuck on a tricky business level or you're a seasoned player ready to share your cheat codes, head over to bekindgivetime.org. Because in this game, the more players we have, the better everyone performs.Remember: Nobody wins until everybody wins. (See? We told you it was nothing like Squid Game!)<a href="https://www.bekindgivetime.org/">Click here to find out more.</a><h2><img src="/uploads/image_1e3af9dc6e.png" alt="A pink and white background with black text

Description automatically generated"> 💎 Final Round: Your 2025 Mission</h2>While our team's been busy causing chaos over the holidays, we haven't forgotten about you players still navigating the marketing game. Our January blog is about to drop faster than eliminated contestants - and we're tackling your most-asked social media questions head on.Got burning questions keeping you up at night? Strategy dilemmas making you feel like you're playing the glass bridge blindfolded? Send them our way. Consider us your Player 001 - we've got the insider knowledge to help you survive and thrive in this game.2025 is here, and the rules are changing faster than ever. Whether you need a complete strategy overhaul or just someone to tell you which moves to make next, we've got your back. No ddakji challenges required, just drop us a message.Remember: In this game, you don't have to play alone. And unlike the actual Squid Game, we're here to make sure everyone wins.See you in the next round... if you survive January's algorithm updates.&nbsp;😉🎮 Game On, 2025!&nbsp;🎮&nbsp;<img src="https://cms.socialjems.co.uk/uploads/dancing_thanos_9973cbdc18.gif" alt="dancing-thanos.gif">

It's our first newsletter of 2025! 🎉 If you're planning to level up your marketing game this year, we’re here to help. And for this series of 2025, we thought we’d get ‘trendy’ and turn it into our own version of Squid Games. (Don't worry, nobody gets eliminated here.) 

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Welcome to the games: New rules, same chaos

<h2>💎Trends and Marketing Predictions in 2025</h2><img src="/uploads/image_57566b9e1d.png" alt="A poster of a hippo wearing a suit and hat

Description automatically generated">If you missed our latest blog on Marketing Predictions &amp; Trends in 2025 (<a href="https://socialjems.co.uk/blog/2025-marketing-predictions-and-trends">click here for the blog</a>), well here’s a quick breakdown of what you missed, along with what to expect next year:🤖 AI Takes Centre Stage&nbsp;76% of marketers are using AI for content creation.📱 Video Dominates&nbsp;82% of web traffic is now video. Short-form content isn't going anywhere - it's getting bigger by the day.&nbsp;🔍 TikTok Becomes Your New Search Bar&nbsp;TikTok has evolved far beyond dance videos. It's turning into the favourite search engine for younger audiences, with searches up 800% in 5 years.🎧 Audio Marketing Takes Off&nbsp;Voice search is becoming as important as traditional SEO, while podcasts are moving from side project to marketing essential.&nbsp;💖 Authentic Content Still Rules&nbsp;With AI flooding social media, genuine, personality-filled content stands out more than ever.&nbsp;Want the full updates?&nbsp;<a href="https://socialjems.co.uk/blog/2025-marketing-predictions-and-trends">Click here.</a><h2>💎LinkedIn's Newest Toy: Moving Banner Images&nbsp;</h2>Premium members, here's something worth getting excited about - LinkedIn's adding a bit of pizzazz to your profile with their latest update.&nbsp;LinkedIn's rolling out moving slideshows for your profile banner.&nbsp;What You're Getting<ul><li>Auto-rotating banner slideshows (fancy!)</li><li>Images that switch every few seconds</li><li>A new "Create Slideshow" button in your banner settings</li><li>A brilliant way to show off your work without cramming it all into one image</li></ul>Who's Getting It?At the moment, it's exclusively for Premium Business subscribers. The rollout's happening across the globe over the next few weeks.Want to see what they will look like?&nbsp;<a href="https://www.linkedin.com/posts/oralevit_your-linkedin-cover-image-the-customizable-activity-7269789349066498048-bAzf/?utm_source=share&amp;utm_medium=member_desktop">Click here.</a><img src="/uploads/image_68a83459ca.png" alt="A squirrel licking a squirrel

Description automatically generated"><h2>💎TikTok in 2025: Why We're Not Worried&nbsp;</h2>The internet's gone wild about TikTok's future in America. Here's what's happening and why we reckon TikTok isn't going anywhere in 2025.Breaking Down the DramaBig news dropped on December 6th - a U.S. federal appeals court upheld a law that could force ByteDance (TikTok's parent company) to sell up or face a ban. Sounds scary, right? But hang on...The Numbers That Matter<ul><li>170 million Americans use TikTok (that's more than half the country!)</li><li>ByteDance has until January 19th to sort things out</li><li>President-elect Trump has already said he won't allow a ban</li></ul>What's Actually Going to Happen?Three ways this could play out:<h3>1. The Sell-Off Route</h3>ByteDance might need to sell TikTok by January 19th. But don't panic - even if this happens, TikTok itself isn't going anywhere. Think about it: Instagram and WhatsApp got new owners and carried on getting bigger and better.<h3>2. The Legal Battle</h3>TikTok could take this to the Supreme Court. During any appeals, it's business as usual. Plus, proving TikTok is a genuine security threat? That's going to take more than just pointing fingers.<h3>3. The Freedom Win</h3>Courts might decide this whole thing violates free speech rights (the American Civil Liberties Union already thinks so). If that happens, it's game on as normal.Why We're Still Backing TikTok for 2025We’ve seen these social media panics before. Remember when everyone thought Instagram was doomed after Facebook bought it? Yeah, how did that work out?TikTok's staying power comes down to three things:<ul><li>Its massive, devoted user base isn't just going to vanish</li><li>The platform keeps pushing boundaries with new features</li><li>Businesses are seeing incredible returns on their TikTok marketing</li></ul>What This Means for Your MarketingKeep creating that TikTok content! The platform's too valuable to ditch, and even if ownership changes, the core magic that makes TikTok brilliant isn't going anywhere.Think about it - people aren't on TikTok because they care who owns it. They're there for the content, the community, and the creativity. None of that's changing.Final ThoughtsWhile the suits sort out the legal bits, TikTok's community keeps growing, creating, and engaging. That's what really matters for your marketing strategy.Want to chat more about making TikTok work for your business? Drop us a message - we're always up for a natter about social media strategy!<img src="https://cms.socialjems.co.uk/uploads/breaking_news_22d2bf37ae.gif" alt="breaking-news.gif"><h2>💎Instagram's Broadcast Channels Just Got More Interesting&nbsp;</h2>Big changes are coming to Instagram's broadcast channels, and they're worth getting excited about. The platform's moving beyond simple likes and reactions, bringing us what we've all been waiting for - actual conversations between creators and their audiences.The Power of RepliesInstagram's finally made two-way conversations possible in broadcast channels. Now your audience can reply to messages and chat with each other, creating a genuine community space. Worried about managing all these conversations? Instagram's thought of that too. Creators have full control over who can reply through their channel settings, so you can keep things running smoothly.Starting Conversations Made SimpleThe new Prompts feature is going to change how creators connect with their audience. Instead of wondering what to post, you can now choose from suggested topics or create your own custom prompts. Your audience gets 24 hours to jump in with text or photo responses, and everyone can like their favourite replies. When you respond as a creator, your message appears right in the main channel, keeping the conversation flowing.Why This Changes EverythingThis update transforms broadcast channels from simple announcement tools into dynamic community spaces. Whether you're running a business or building your personal brand, you've now got the tools to create genuine connections with your audience.<img src="https://cms.socialjems.co.uk/uploads/instagram_cat_6327ba8db9.gif" alt="instagram-cat.gif"><h2>Here comes the Team Update!</h2>Starting Off With Our Fearless Leader: Jem!2024 has been quite the year for Jem. She's brought fantastic new clients on board, delivered amazing sales training, and helped SocialJems grow in exciting new directions.&nbsp;Christmas PlansAfter such a busy year, we're happy to report Jem's actually taking some time off this Christmas! She's looking forward to the two things that make her Christmas special: good food and family board games.And speaking of food - everyone's already messaging about her roast potatoes. Apparently, they're the highlight of Christmas dinner (no pressure, Jem!)Board games are a tradition in Jem's house - Christmas Eve and Christmas Day are reserved for family competitions that get everyone involved.&nbsp;<img src="/uploads/image_964f4a1e79.png" alt="A person taking a selfie with a group of people

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Description automatically generated"><h2>💎Our Morgenmuffel Sarah</h2>Sarah's been in her element this year with content creation. We've lost count of how many times we've heard "I did it again" - her code for accidentally writing three months of content instead of one. When she gets in the zone, there's no stopping those ideas flowing. If she goes quiet for a while, we know she's disappeared into what we call a 'content hole', emerging days later with months’ worth of work.Christmas PlansShe'll be spending time with Joe's family, taking time to remember Joe, before celebrating Christmas with everyone.And in true Sarah style, she's got a special mission this year - introducing her 3-year-old niece to the world of Pokémon. She's decided her niece is finally old enough to appreciate the magic, and we have a feeling there might be some strategic Christmas presents involved in creating the next Pokémon trainer...<img src="/uploads/image_93a95ccf79.png" alt="A person wearing sunglasses

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Description automatically generated"><h2>💎&nbsp;Sarah Also Known as Twinnie</h2>Sarah has been incredible behind the scenes this year, nailing the content scheduling for our clients and handling all the admin work that keeps SocialJems running smoothly. But it's not just her work ethic that makes her amazing - it's her caring nature that really shines through.Christmas PlansThis Christmas, Sarah's continuing her tradition of helping at her local church, making sure children in need get gifts to open on Christmas morning. It's something she looks forward to every year, giving back to her community.The festivities don't stop there though - she's excited for the annual family reunion on Christmas Day. It's always a full house with all the relatives coming together to celebrate.<img src="/uploads/image_8faf590049.png" alt="A person and person taking a selfie

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Description automatically generated"><h2>💎 The Admin expert Cath</h2>This year marks a special Christmas for Cath - it's her first time hosting the festivities in her own home! After years of joining the in-laws for celebrations, she's excited to be creating her own Christmas traditions.Christmas PlansThe tables have turned this year, and it's Cath's turn to be in charge of the celebrations and cooking. Word has it there's going to be games and karaoke too (we're hoping for videos of this!).From visitor to host - sounds like Cath's ready to make this Christmas her own, complete with all the chaos and fun of hosting family. We're betting those karaoke sessions are going to be memorable!<img src="/uploads/image_d01ad51d66.png" alt="A person taking a selfie

Description automatically generated"><h2>Now Over to You...</h2>We've shared our Christmas plans - from Jem's competitive board games and famous roasties, to Sarah's Pokémon mission with her niece, Sarah helping at her local church and family reunion, and Cath's first-time hosting with karaoke on the cards.But what about you? Are you a Christmas games champion too? Planning any family traditions? Or maybe you're just looking forward to putting your feet up?&nbsp;<h2>💎 SocialJems is Getting a New Update!</h2>Big news - we're updating our website for 2025! We look forward to sharing the new look next year, so keep your eyes peeled!What We're Bringing to 2025Whether you need help with LinkedIn's latest features, want to nail your TikTok strategy, or fancy making Instagram work harder for your business, we are here to help. From social media management to eye-catching newsletters, engaging blogs, and website design - we handle it all.Why Choose Us for 2025?You know that feeling when someone's just going through the motions? That's not us. We get to know you, your business, and what makes you tick. Want to bring your dog to a video call? Perfect. Kids turning your background into chaos? We're here for it. Because marketing shouldn't feel like pulling teeth - it should feel like chatting with people who actually give a damn about your success.What We Offer:<ul><li>Social media management across all major platforms</li><li>Content that sounds like you, not a robot</li><li>Blogs and newsletters that people actually want to read</li><li>Website design that works as hard as you do</li><li>Training sessions (including our famous Social Shizzle Sessions)</li></ul>Keep an eye out for our website update - we're making it even easier for you to find exactly what you need.<h2>💎 Before We Go...</h2>We've got one more treat coming your way - watch out for our final blog of 2024! We'll be sharing all our top tips to kickstart your marketing in 2025. Trust us, you won't want to miss this one.<h2>💎 Festive Opening Hours&nbsp;🎄</h2>We're working right up until Christmas (because we love what we do!), but we'll be taking a few days off to recharge:<ul><li>Christmas Day: Closed</li><li>Boxing Day: Closed</li><li>New Year's Day: Closed</li></ul>When are you switching off for the holidays? Drop us a message - we'd love to know when you're putting your out-of-office on!From all of us at SocialJems, thanks for being part of our 2024. Here's to an amazing 2025!

Mad to think we're heading into 2025 soon! Here's what we're covering in our last newsletter of the year - social media updates for December, team updates, and what you can expect from SocialJems in 2025.

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What's New? TikTok Changes, Instagram Updates & Your 2025 Marketing Blueprint 

Pop the kettle on and get comfy, because we're about to dive deep into the future of marketing, and trust us, it's going to be rather interesting!&nbsp;🔮Ready to peek into our crystal ball and see what 2025 has in store for the marketing world?&nbsp;<h2>🐘&nbsp;The Elephant in the Room: AI's Remarkable Evolution&nbsp;</h2>Let's start by addressing the mammoth-sized topic that's stomping through every marketing conversation. The landscape of AI in marketing has shifted dramatically, and the numbers tell quite a story.&nbsp;76% of marketers are already using generative AI for basic content creation.While AI isn't about replacing us humans (thank goodness), it's revolutionising how we work in fascinating ways:<ul><li>In content creation, AI tools have become frighteningly good at understanding brand voice and creating engaging content. Think of it as having a super-efficient assistant who can churn out first drafts whilst you focus on adding that essential human touch.</li><li>For customer insights, AI's becoming rather like a crystal ball that can predict customer behaviour with remarkable accuracy. It's spotting patterns and opportunities that human eyes might miss, making every marketing pound work harder than ever.</li></ul>The real magic happens in personalisation. AI helps tailor content so precisely that each customer feels like you've read their mind (in a non-creepy way, of course).&nbsp;<img src="/uploads/image_dd29f7b3ea.png"><h2>👑 Short-Form Video: The Undisputed Champion of 2025&nbsp;</h2>Remember when everyone said TikTok was just a passing fad? They couldn't have been more wrong.&nbsp;Video now accounts for 82% of all web traffic - a massive shift in how people consume content.&nbsp;TikTok searches have skyrocketed by 800% in just five years, and interest in TikTok advertising has exploded by 99 times. We’d say that’s pretty impressive!&nbsp;If you want more information on how you can market your business on TikTok, then check out blog.&nbsp;<a href="https://socialjems.co.uk/blog/how-you-can-market-your-business-on-tik-tok-in-2024">Click here.</a><h3>💎 The Real Story Behind Video Success</h3>91% of businesses are now using videos as a marketing tool, and 89% of consumers are clamouring for more. But what's really interesting is the variety of video content that's working brilliantly.<h3>💎 For B2B organisations, we're seeing success with:</h3><ul><li>Explainer videos that break down complex topics</li><li>Product demonstrations that showcase real value</li><li>Video interviews that add a human touch</li><li>Pre-recorded online courses that establish expertise</li><li>Thought leadership pieces that build authority</li></ul><h3>💎 For engaging with customers, the most effective approaches include:</h3><ul><li>Behind-the-scenes peeks at your business</li><li>Blooper reels (yes, really!)</li><li>Team introductions that showcase personality</li><li>Quick tips that provide immediate value</li></ul>Remember, not every video needs to be polished to perfection. Sometimes that blooper video could be the very thing that gets someone to finally stop stalking your profile and reach out. After all, we'd all rather work with someone who feels genuine, wouldn't we?<h2>🚀 The Social Media Revolution&nbsp;</h2>The social media landscape has undergone a transformation, and it's absolutely fascinating to watch. Let's break down what's actually working:💎 TikTok: The New Google (No, Really!)TikTok has evolved far beyond dance trends and funny videos. Their advertising is now 10% more attention-grabbing than other social networks and 21% more trend-setting. Rather impressive stats!The platform's becoming a proper search engine, particularly for younger audiences. When people want to find something out, they're increasingly turning to TikTok first - a massive shift in how we think about search and discovery.<img src="/uploads/image_15708fb491.png" alt="A cartoon of a person talking to a turkey

Description automatically generated">💎 Threads: The New Kid Making WavesSpeaking of impressive numbers, Threads reached 100 million users in just 4-6 days - absolutely mental when you think about it. Now boasting 175 million monthly active users, it's become a serious player in the social media game.The brilliant part? It's still less competitive than other platforms, making it a great opportunity for businesses.The most effective content we're seeing on Threads includes:<ul><li>Before and after showcases</li><li>Versus-style content that sparks discussion</li><li>Engaging polls that encourage interaction</li><li>Company updates with personality</li></ul><h2>🎙️The Power of Sound: Marketing Gets Louder in 2025</h2>💎 Voice SearchVoice search is becoming equally crucial. By 2025, optimising for voice search will be as important as traditional SEO - rather like how mobile optimisation became essential a few years back. With smart speakers and voice-activated devices becoming as common as tea bags in British homes, businesses need to think about how they sound, not just how they look.💎 Podcasts&nbsp;The audio revolution is in full swing, and it's absolutely transforming how we connect with our audiences. Podcasts have evolved from a niche medium into a proper marketing powerhouse. They're brilliant for relationship building, providing value, increasing brand visibility, and establishing yourself as a proper authority in your field.In fact, our very own Jem decided to join forces with Zoe to create their own podcast.&nbsp;Want some ideas for your own podcast, or maybe you just want to be nosey?&nbsp;<a href="https://www.youtube.com/@BusinessGems-JemZoe">Click here to view the BusinessGems podcast.</a><img src="/uploads/image_079a6463a5.png"><h2>📝&nbsp;Content That Actually Works: Beyond the Basics</h2>💎 Strong Hooks Are More Important Than EverWith generative AI flooding social media with content, catching attention has become challenging. Your first line needs to work harder than a pot of coffee on a Monday morning. If you're struggling with creating compelling hooks our Social Shizzle Sessions might be just the ticket.<a href="https://socialjems.co.uk/contact">Get in touch and ask about our Social Shizzle Sessions.</a><img src="/uploads/image_a126149c16.png" alt="A couple of women posing for a picture

Description automatically generated">💎 Making Content Relatable and FunContent fatigue is real - people are properly knackered from being bombarded with information. That's why fun, relatable content is gaining serious traction. Would you believe that studies show over 60% of people are more likely to buy from companies that use memes? It's true!Companies can add a bit of personality to their brand image while still selling effectively. Even the most serious businesses are finding ways to lighten up their content without losing their professional edge.<img src="/uploads/image_748222bab0.png" alt="A collage of a person

Description automatically generated"><h2>🤝 Trust</h2>Gone are the days when you could just slap a logo on something and call it marketing. Consumers are savvier than ever, and they can spot a fake from miles away. Which we rather like to see, because we're all about authenticity at SocialJems.Trust-building content needs to:<ul><li>Show the real people behind your brand (yes, even Dave from IT with his legendary dad jokes)</li><li>Share both successes and failures (because perfect is boring)</li><li>Be transparent about processes (people love seeing how the sausage is made)</li></ul><img src="https://cms.socialjems.co.uk/uploads/sausage_makingsausage_2d554ce7f9.gif" alt="sausage-makingsausage.gif"><h2>📲 Platform Breakdown</h2>The most successful businesses are spreading their presence across:<ul><li>Facebook (76% of businesses)</li><li>Instagram (63% of businesses)</li><li>LinkedIn (43% of businesses)</li></ul><h2>🎯 What You Should Be Doing&nbsp;</h2>Rather than trying to do everything at once, focus on these key areas:💎 Digital FoundationsStart with the basics:<ul><li>Keep an eye on your reputation</li><li>Make your website work harder</li></ul>💎 Content StrategyFocus on creating content that:<ul><li>Mixes professional insights with personality</li><li>Uses video across platforms</li><li>Stays authentic and engaging</li></ul>💎 AI IntegrationBegin gradually:<ul><li>Start with one tool you understand</li><li>Keep that essential human touch</li><li>Test and learn as you go</li></ul><h2>💪 Ready to Take On 2025?</h2>&nbsp;Look, we know all this change can feel rather daunting. But marketing in 2025, isn't about throwing everything you know out the window. It's about smart evolution and genuine connections.Want help sorting your 2025 marketing strategy? That's literally what we do!&nbsp;<a href="https://socialjems.co.uk/contact">Drop us a message</a> - we promise we're quite friendly and rather good at what we do!Follow us for more marketing insights:<ul><li><a href="https://www.linkedin.com/company/social-jem-s">LinkedIn</a></li><li><a href="https://www.instagram.com/thesocialjems/">Instagram</a></li><li><a href="https://www.facebook.com/SocialJems">Facebook</a></li><li><a href="https://www.tiktok.com/@socialjems1">TikTok</a></li></ul>P.S. Just don't ask us to predict next week's lottery numbers - our crystal ball's a bit fuzzy on those...&nbsp;😉

It's scary to think it's almost December and 2025 is getting closer and closer. So, let's break down everything you need to know about promoting your company in 2025, backed by data and real-world insights. 

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