Category: Blog

Kristen Lundy Blog

SEO, GEO, and AI: The New Era of Digital Marketing

In the ever-changing world of digital marketing, visibility is everything. The way customers find and interact with businesses online is shifting dramatically, thanks to advancements in search technology and artificial intelligence. Traditional Search Engine Optimization (SEO) is still critical, but it now works alongside emerging practices like Generative Engine Optimization (GEO) and the powerful role of Artificial Intelligence (AI). At Next-Mark, we’ve seen how these three forces converge to shape the future of marketing, and we’re helping businesses adapt to stay ahead.

The Foundation: Search Engine Optimization (SEO)

SEO remains the backbone of online visibility. It’s the process of optimizing your website so that search engines can recognize its value and present it to users searching for what you offer. Effective SEO involves a balance of keyword research, on-page optimization, and technical improvements, all supported by a strong content strategy. When done well, SEO doesn’t just bring more traffic, it builds trust, credibility, and authority in your market.

The Future: Generative Engine Optimization (GEO)

As AI-powered platforms like Google’s Search Generative Experience, ChatGPT, and other generative engines transform the search experience, Generative Engine Optimization (GEO) has become a crucial next step. Unlike traditional SEO, which focuses on rankings within search results, GEO ensures that your content is positioned to be referenced and cited by AI-generated answers. This requires creating structured, authoritative, and comprehensive content that these engines recognize as trustworthy. GEO focuses heavily on credibility, relevance, and alignment with principles like expertise, authoritativeness, and trustworthiness, ensuring your brand is not only visible but recommended by the newest search technologies.

The Accelerator: Artificial Intelligence (AI)

AI is both the driver of change and the solution to managing it. On one hand, AI is powering the generative engines reshaping search. On the other hand, it provides businesses with advanced tools to improve strategy and performance. From smarter keyword analysis and predictive search behavior to enhanced content personalization, AI helps marketers better understand their audience and respond quickly to trends. With AI, businesses can work faster, make more informed decisions, and deliver tailored experiences that resonate deeply with customers.

Why It Matters

For businesses, the message is clear: relying only on traditional SEO is no longer enough. Customers are finding information in new ways, and if your brand isn’t optimized for both traditional search and generative engines, you risk being left behind. The integration of SEO, GEO, and AI is not just about keeping up with technology; it’s about future-proofing your digital presence.

How Next-Mark Can Help

At Next-Mark, we bring together decades of marketing expertise with forward-thinking strategies that help our clients thrive in this new era of search. We know how to balance proven SEO practices with innovative GEO tactics and AI-driven insights to deliver measurable results. Whether your goal is to strengthen your visibility in traditional search, ensure your brand is part of the generative engine conversation, or harness AI to drive smarter campaigns, we have the knowledge and tools to make it happen.

At Next-Mark, we’ve been helping clients shape and share their brand stories since 2005. If you’re ready to elevate your digital visibility with smart SEO and GEO strategies, we’re here to help.

Contact us at 941.587.1055 or info@next-mark.com

Kristen Lundy Blog

The Next 20 Years

When Joe Grano founded Next-Mark, he set out with a clear mission: to help organizations tell their stories in ways that resonate, inspire, and endure. He believed that communications done right could change not only the course of a business but also the lives of the people behind it.

Over the past two decades, Next-Mark has had the privilege of working alongside visionary leaders, innovative organizations, and inspiring entrepreneurs. Together, we’ve helped shape stories, craft strategies, and create meaningful connections that drive business forward. As we reflect on the past 20 years, we are proud of the partnerships we’ve built and the impact we’ve made. But more importantly, we’re excited about what comes next.

As I step into this role as president, I am both humbled and inspired by the foundation Joe built. His passion for excellence, creativity, and integrity lives on in the team we have today, a team that is not only deeply experienced but also driven by curiosity, collaboration, and a relentless commitment to our clients’ success.

The world has changed in remarkable ways since our story began, and it continues to evolve at a pace none of us could have imagined. New technologies, shifting markets, and changing consumer expectations all demand new approaches and new ways of thinking. At Next-Mark, we see this not as a challenge, but as an opportunity to lead.Today, we enter a new chapter, one guided by the lessons of the past and energized by the possibilities of the future.

What’s Next

As we look ahead, our focus is clear, and our vision is bold. The next chapter of Next-Mark is about more than continuing what we’ve built; it’s about anticipating what’s on the horizon and preparing our clients to lead in a rapidly evolving landscape.

  • Building on Experience: Our talented team brings decades of knowledge across industries, ensuring our clients benefit from both proven strategies and fresh ideas.
  • Embracing What’s Ahead: The future of communication is dynamic, driven by new technologies, smarter analytics, and the blending of creativity with data. From the growing role of AI and automation to the demand for personalization and meaningful digital engagement, we are committed to staying at the forefront. Our goal is to translate these innovations into practical, effective strategies that help our clients thrive in a fast-changing world.
  • Investing in People: The Next-Mark story has always been about people, our clients, our partners, and our team. We will continue to foster an environment where talent thrives, ideas flourish, and collaboration drives progress.

Ultimately, what’s next means staying nimble, curious, and forward-looking, building on the strength of our past while embracing the tools, technologies, and ideas that will define the future.

Looking Forward Together

We know that the next 20 years will bring new challenges, new technologies, and new opportunities. What won’t change is our commitment to excellence, integrity, and innovation.

As we begin this next chapter, I want to thank you, our colleagues, partners, and friends, for being part of our journey. Your trust, collaboration, and support have made everything possible. Together, we will write the next chapter of the Next-Mark story, one that honors our past while embracing all that the future holds.

With gratitude and excitement for the future,

JT Grano

President, Next-Mark

Kristen Lundy Blog

Is Podcasting Worth It? Here’s Our Take

There’s no denying it—podcasts are having a moment. With over 5 million shows worldwide and billions of episodes streamed annually, they’ve become a dominant force in how people consume content and connect with ideas. Whether it’s business, storytelling, news, or niche interests, there’s a podcast for everything—and everyone.

But as with all trends, there’s more beneath the surface.

The Good: A Platform That Builds Trust

Podcasts offer something rare in the marketing world: time and attention. Listeners opt in, stay engaged, and form strong connections with hosts and guests. For brands and thought leaders, that means a unique opportunity to speak directly to an audience that wants to hear from you.

They’re also incredibly flexible. You can entertain, educate, inspire—or all three at once. With the right strategy, a podcast can amplify your voice, boost credibility, and build loyal followings.

The Not-So-Good: A Crowded Market

For every high-quality podcast out there, there are dozens more that struggle to find their footing. Poor production, lack of focus, or inconsistent posting schedules can make it hard to build an audience. And while it might be tempting to start recording right away, success in podcasting—like all good marketing—requires clear goals, smart branding, and a strong point of view.

So, Should You Podcast?

The answer depends on your audience, your message, and your ability to deliver value consistently. As strategic communicators, we help clients ask the right questions:

Who are you trying to reach?

What do you want them to know or feel?

Can you offer something they can’t get anywhere else?

If those answers align, podcasting can be an incredibly effective tool in your marketing mix.

Hear Joe Grano on the Following Up Again Podcast for FPRA

We’re excited to share that Joe Grano, president and founder of Next-Mark, was recently a guest on the Following Up Again podcast by the Florida Public Relations Association (FPRA). In this insightful conversation, Joe shares insights from two decades of guiding organizations through strategic growth, innovation, leadership, brand transformation, and navigating a constantly evolving communications landscape.
Listen to the episode here

“Storytelling is at the core of everything we do. Whether you’re building a brand or launching a new service, how you communicate that story makes all the difference.” – Joe Grano

Explore the Next-Mark Lookbook: Our Story, Our Work, Our Why

Every brand has a story—and ours is no exception. The new Next-Mark Look book offers a behind-the-scenes look at how we began, what’s shaped our journey, and how we’ve evolved into the strategic communications agency we are today.

But it’s not just about us. The Lookbook also highlights the work we’re most proud of—campaigns, creative solutions, and success stories that reflect our passion for helping clients grow, connect, and lead.

Whether you’re a longtime partner or just getting to know us, we invite you to explore the thinking, creativity, and collaboration that fuel everything we do.

Take a look inside

At Next-Mark, we have curated numerous client brand stories since 2005. If we can help, please contact us at 941.544.2765 or at brandstory@next-mark.com

Kristen Lundy Blog

Rebuilding LinkedIn’s Image: A Return to Professionalism

LinkedIn was designed as a digital space for professionals to connect, businesses to grow, and ideas to thrive. In recent years, the line between personal, political, and professional content has begun to blur—prompting a necessary reminder of what makes LinkedIn unique in the social media landscape.

At its core, LinkedIn is a professional platform—distinct from Facebook, Instagram, or TikTok. While the occasional personal story can foster genuine connection, excessive use of personal or political content can undermine your professional credibility and weaken your personal brand.

To maintain the professional integrity of your LinkedIn presence, it’s important to avoid certain types of content and interactions. Refrain from liking, commenting on, or sharing politically charged posts, as these topics are better suited for other platforms and can unintentionally alienate your professional network.

Similarly, steer clear of posting highly personal content, such as shopping with your children or highlighting their school accomplishments, which is more appropriate for platforms like Facebook or Instagram. Additionally, avoid over-posting or excessively liking and commenting on content, as this can come across as inauthentic or overwhelming.

How to use LinkedIn more effectively:

Be intentional with your content

Share industry insights, thought leadership, and work achievements.

Engage strategically

Avoid “like spamming” or excessive commenting on every post in your feed. Instead, add meaningful value.

Optimize your profile

Use a professional headshot, update your headline with your current role, and write a compelling summary.

Network with purpose

Connect with peers, clients, and prospects thoughtfully—not indiscriminately.

As marketers and communicators, we see LinkedIn as an essential tool for brand positioning and lead generation. By keeping LinkedIn professional, we help preserve its role as a trusted environment for business engagement.

Celebrating Creative Excellence: 11 ADDY® Award

We’re proud to share that Next-Mark earned 11 ADDY® awards at the 2025 American Advertising Federation (AAF) Awards, including the prestigious Judge’s Choice Amy Award for a standout: 60-second entry in Film, Video, & Sound.

These awards span categories such as:

  • Film, Video, & Sound
  • Advertising/Media Industry Self-Promotion
  • Elements of Advertising (Video Editing & Logo Design)
  • Sales & Marketing Brochures
  • Online Interactive Website Designs 

These honors represent the creative and strategic excellence we strive to deliver across diverse client categories including theater, home building, healthcare, retail, architecture, among others—underscoring the impact of great partnerships and purposeful storytelling. Thank you to our team, clients and collaborators for making this possible.

At Next-Mark, we have curated numerous client brand stories since 2005. If we can help, please contact us at 941.544.2765 or at brandstory@next-mark.com

Kristen Lundy Blog

Empowering Businesses with Tailored Salesforce Solution

Empowering Businesses with Tailored Salesforce Solution

Dear Friends,

For the last 5 years, Next-Mark has been a proud partner of Salesforce. We have recently expanded our services into the AI world, and we are proud to announce that we are one of the first partners to hold all AI related Salesforce certifications. With the changes and growth in AI happening on a daily basis, it is important to stay on top of the latest products and how to reduce your organization’s workload.

We’re excited to share the latest updates on Next-Mark’s Salesforce services, reinforcing our commitment to delivering customized, results-driven solutions for businesses.

What is Salesforce?

Salesforce is a cloud-based software platform that helps businesses manage customer relationships, sales, marketing, and support. It offers tools for tracking interactions, automating processes, and analyzing data to enhance customer experiences and drive growth. With customizable features, it suits businesses of all sizes, streamlining workflows and boosting efficiency.

What We Offer

Custom Implementations: 

Tailored Salesforce systems designed for your unique processes.

Marketing Cloud Expertise

Maximizing ROI with personalized campaigns and lead nurturing.

Health Cloud Solutions

Enhancing patient and referral management with a comprehensive view.

Manages Services

Ongoing support, configuration, and training for sustained success.

Free Health Check

Making sure your Salesforce environment is up to date and operating without any errors.

We are with you every step of the way!

Turbo-Charging Business Processes

Next-Mark leverages Salesforce to streamline workflows, automative repetitive tasks, and enhance data-driven decision-making. By implementing solutions like CPQ integrations and real-time reporting, we help clients save valuable time and unlock deeper insights for strategic growth.

Success Stories

Explore our case studies to see how we’ve helped companies transform with Salesforce.

At Next-Mark, we have curated numerous client brand stories since 2005. If we can help, please contact us at 941.544.2765 or at brandstory@next-mark.com

Kristen Lundy Blog

NEXT-MARK CELEBRATES CREATIVE EXCELLENCE WITH MULTIPLE AAF AWARDS

Next-Mark, a Sarasota-based marketing and communications firm, has once again proven its creative excellence, earning 11  ADDY® awards at the American Advertising Federation’s (AAF) 2025 ADDY Awards. Among these accolades, the agency was honored with the prestigious Judge’s Choice Amy Award for its Film, Video, & Sound Single Entry :60 Seconds.

Spanning multiple categories, Next-Mark received recognition in Film, Video, & Sound, Advertising/Media Industry Self-Promotion, Elements of Advertising (Video Editing & Logo Design), Sales & Marketing Brochure, and Online Interactive Websites.

We are incredibly proud of our team’s continued dedication to creative excellence and strategic marketing,” said Joseph Grano, Founder and President of Next-Mark, LLC. “Winning in multiple categories reaffirms our commitment to delivering innovative, results-driven solutions that elevate our clients’ brands.” 

The agency’s award-winning work included projects for esteemed partners such as Venice, Theatre, First 1000 Days, Simon Malls, John Cannon Homes, DWYLA Landscape Architecture, The Henson Fun, and Reveal Vitality. These campaigns have helped drive business growth and engagement throughout the Sarasota community and beyond. 

“Our passion lies in helping businesses tell their stories in impactful ways,” added Grano. “These awards not only recognize our creative efforts but also highlight the strong collaborations we’ve built with our clients to achieve meaningful results.”

Joseph Grano Blog

Next-Mark Celebrates 20 Years

Next-Mark Celebrates 20 Years: A Thank You to Family, Team, Clients, and Community

“Two decades of perseverance, growth and success. We built more than just a company; we forged a legacy. Here’s to 20 years of excellence, and the many milestones we have overcome.”

Today, we’re raising a glass to an incredible milestone: Next-Mark turns 20! Since our humble beginnings on February 10, 2005, what started as a spark of an idea has grown into a dynamic, widely recognized marketing and communications firm, proudly rooted in downtown Sarasota since 2010. It’s been an extraordinary journey—and we couldn’t have done it without you.

I still remember the night this dream took shape— a former corporate guy scribbling ideas to create a marketing communications company that was more strategic, but could also harness creativity and produce cutting edge solutions. Inspired by my entrepreneurial family and decades of experience in healthcare, tech, and finance, I asked myself: How are you going to make your mark? That question became Next-Mark—next-generation marketing solutions with a purpose. Today, with diverse clients from healthcare to hospitality to government and countless other categories, we’ve grown from a home-based operation to a brick-and-mortar success in Southwest, Florida, serving clients locally, nationally, and globally. We have also expanded our business as a Certified Salesforce Partner now working with clients and 18+ states.

As we celebrate 20 years, we’re kicking off a year of festivities—internal team celebrations, community events, and sharing lessons from two decades of award-winning creativity (over 50+ awards and counting!). But today, we pause to say thank you to those who’ve made this possible.

To Family

First and foremost, thank you to my family—who supported my entrepreneurial spirit, and my stood by me through every late night and big wins (and losses). Your belief in me lit the spark for Next-Mark, and I’m forever grateful.

To Our Team

To the amazing Next-Mark crew—past and present—you’re the heartbeat of this company. From a small startup to a full-fledged agency, your creativity, dedication, and passion have driven us to new heights. You’ve turned ideas into impact, and I’m so proud to work alongside you every day.

To Our Clients

To our incredible clients—spanning not-for-profits, architecture, healthcare, government, entertainments, home services and beyond—thank you for trusting us with your brands. From Florida to across the globe, your partnerships have fueled our growth, challenged us to innovate, and helped us build a legacy we’re proud of. Whether you’re a local gem or an international name, you’re the reason we’ve thrived for 20 years.

To Our Greater Sarasota Community

Finally, to the vibrant Sarasota community—thank you for embracing us as a locally owned business. Since moving downtown in 2010, you’ve welcomed us, collaborated with us, and inspired us to give back. It’s an honor to call this city home and contribute to its spirit of innovation and connection.
Looking back, I see a journey of bold strategies, lasting relationships, and a team that’s grown revenue each year—a testament to what’s possible when passion meets purpose.
Here’s to 20 More Years! Join us throughout 2025 as we celebrate, share insights, and look forward to what’s next. Follow along, connect with us, and let’s keep making our mark—together.

With deepest gratitude,

Joseph S. Grano, Jr., MBA
President & Founder, Next-Mark, LLC
Kristen Lundy Blog

Next-Mark Super Bowl LIX Ad Review

Next-Mark Super Bowl LIX Ad Review

Super Bowl Sunday is a great time to gather with friends and family, watch some sports, and veg out on great food and drink. It’s also a great time for advertising companies to go big and create the best commercials they can. With hundreds of millions of viewers each year, the Super Bowl is the time to really showcase a brand’s plan for the year or highlight a new product! Seeing how companies market themselves on one of TV’s biggest nights is not only entertaining but educational. Here are our favorite and least favorite ads from Sunday night!

The Good

  • Stella Artois – “David and Dave”
    • In this cheeky ad, David Beckham is told by his parents that he has brother, Dave, in America. Upon traveling and meeting Dave (played by Matt Damon) for the first time, it appears the brothers have nothing in common, but upon sharing a drink – Stella Artois, they bond. This ad highlights the magic of shared moments.
  • Hellmann’s – “When Sally Met Hellmann’s”
    • Recreating the iconic deli scene from the movie When Harry Met Sally, Meg Ryan and Billy Crystal team up to showcase the power a good mayonnaise can bring to food. There was even a surprise appearance by actress Sydney Sweeney who delivers the film’s iconic line – “I’ll have what she’s having.”
  • Jeep – “Owner’s Manual”
    • Harrison Ford did a great job of embodying what it means to be a Jeep owner – paving your own path without a manual/guide. As a long-time action movie star, he talks about the power of being a hero and making choices, making life better not only for yourself but others. Jeeps’ legacy is freedom and adventure, so I feel like this ad, and Ford’s powerful monologue, really showcased that.
  • Instacart – “We’re Here”
    • Showcasing the power of iconic brand mascots (from America’s favorite grocery items) and Instacart’s fast/easy service, this commercial was a great blend of fun and fact. From the moment Cheetos Chester Cheetah puts out a call to “release the hounds” and HEINZ Wiener Dogs came running, the audience is hooked. As Instacart’s Chief Marketing Officer Laura Jones said in an interview, “The ad embodies our new brand platform with an epic journey of fan-favorite mascots delivering the perfect order, as only Instacart can, so that a family can have the perfect morning together. We’re here to take care of the groceries, so that you can take care of life.”

The Bad

  • Tubi – “The Z-Suite”
    • Done in the style of a TikTok, this ad was just too all-over-the-place and low-quality for a Super Bowl ad. I like the idea of highlighting Gen-Z as an audience but compiling memes and viral trends to create an ad is not the way to go.
  • Coffee Mate – “Foam Diva”
    • While this ad was an interesting idea, “Let’s go Tongues?”, the execution, from the graphics to the song choice, were done in a way that made things appear weirder and more off-putting than compelling.

Honorable Mentions

Super Bowl LIX had many more fun and compelling ads that really did a great job at representing their brand. From Pringles’ humorous “Call of the Mustaches,” which had a quirky twist on a classic action-adventure theme, to Dunkin’s catchy “Dunkings,” showcasing their iconic coffee and donuts in a lighthearted way, the commercials had something for everyone. We saw many celebrities getting in on the action, from comedic legends to pop culture icons, making their mark in ways that were both entertaining and memorable. Whether through clever parodies, feel-good moments, or bold visuals, these ads left a lasting impression on viewers, showing how brands can captivate audiences while staying true to their unique identity.

Kristen Lundy Blog

The Psychology of Social Media: More Than Just Scrolling

The Psychology of Social Media: More Than Just Scrolling

We all know that feeling: scrolling through Instagram, TikTok, or Facebook, and seeing everyone else living their best lives. But what’s really going on beneath the surface? 

Social Validation

We’re wired to seek approval. Every like, comment, or share gives us a little hit of dopamine—the chemical released in your brain when you do something enjoyable. The euphoric feeling dopamine can bring is so powerful that it reinforces the cycle of posting for validation. For many on social media, posting regularly is not just about the content; it’s about wanting that consistent source of positivity and acceptance.

Fear of Missing Out (FOMO)

Unfortunately, social media has created a new anxiety. It’s easy to feel like everyone else is having fun, traveling, or achieving more. But remember, what you’re seeing is curated—a snapshot of someone’s life, not the full picture. We’re all guilty of showing only our best—the highlight reels of life!

Community & Connection

On a positive note, social media allows us to find our tribe. Instagram, in particular, is where niche communities thrive, and shared experiences (through captured moments) bring people together. Whether it’s a fandom, a hobby, or a support group, social media creates spaces where we can feel seen and heard.

Comparison & Self-Esteem

While connection can uplift, the constant comparison game can lead most to feel inadequate. We compare our every day, “behind-the-scenes” life, to others’ filtered life or highlight reel. Don’t forget that everyone has their own struggles—even if they’re not shared online.

Echo Chambers

The algorithms that keep us hooked also show content that reinforces our beliefs. While it can be comforting, it’s important to seek diverse perspectives to keep our minds sharp and avoid falling into an echo chamber.

Social media is a double-edged sword. It’s a powerful tool for connection, but it can also stir up insecurities. It’s important to stay mindful of how it affects us—and to use it in ways that lift us up instead of drag us down. 

How do you manage your relationship with social media? 

At Next-Mark, we have curated numerous client brand stories since 2005. If we can help, please contact us at 941.544.2765 or at info@next-mark.com.

Kristen Lundy Blog

Power Trends in Social Media Marketing: How to Be Culturally Relevant

Power Trends in Social Media Marketing: How to Be Culturally Relevant

The past year has shown the power of social media, with 2024 marking a turning point for influencer-led marketing campaigns and pop-culture phenomena. Viral moments have shaped not just the digital landscape but global culture, creating movements that resonate far beyond the screen.

In the summer, we saw the Brat phenomenon, ignited by Charli XCX’s sixth studio album, take the world by storm. The Brat aesthetic is the embodiment of a “confident, independent, and hedonistic attitude.” Influencers and celebrities globally, and across social media platforms, embraced bold makeup, imperfectly chic fashion, and had fun creating TikTok dances to tracks from the album, such as Apple.

At Next-Mark, we want to help you understand the importance and value trends can have on a business or brand. Anyone, with the right strategy, can have influence beyond the screen. While your content might not always go viral, the right approach to social media can create a lasting impact.

Craft a Captivating Core Message

Choose a word or phrase that encapsulated your brand’s identity and resonates deeply with your audience’s values, emotions, and/or aspirations. It should be distinctive, easy to remember, and adaptable to different contexts, making it easy for your audience to connect with and share.

Create Authentic, Shareable Content that Embodies Your Message

Whether it’s through a challenge, meme, or original video series, ensure that your content is engaging and resonates emotionally with your target audience. Brands that tap into cultural moments or embody current trends tend to connect more deeply with followers.

Leverage Influencers

Collaborating with influencers who already have a connection to the trend you’re trying to harness will help extend the reach. These influencers don’t just endorse the product or idea; they live it. This creates a more organic connection to their, and your, followers. With Brat, for instance, influencers and celebrities were able to incorporate the aesthetic into their daily lives in a natural, relatable way.

Encourage User-Generated Content (UGC)

The most successful viral trends, and marketing campaigns, often feature everyday people. Brands can inspire fans to participate by using hashtags or providing creative prompts. When people feel like they are part of something larger than just a brand or product, they are more likely to share content, spreading the message further.

Connect to a Larger Cultural Moment

Trends gain momentum when they feel timely and relevant. Whether it’s a seasonal vibe, a major event, or a cultural shift, finding ways to link your trend to what’s happening in the world can amplify its appeal. For example, the Brat aesthetic coincided with a societal push towards individuality and self-expression.

Adapt Quickly and Intentionally

Social media trends tend to move fast. Being able to jump on a trend early gives brands a competitive edge. However, it’s important to remain flexible. The reserved, introspective vibe of the “Demure” aesthetic, sparked by TikToker Jools Lebron, swiftly followed the bold, confident style of Brat. Recognizing the fluidity of social media culture allows brands to pivot and experiment with new creative ideas as they emerge.

Stay Authentic to Your Brand’s Voice and Values

Trends are fleeting, but a strong brand identity can keep your audience coming back for more. As tempting as it might be to chase after every viral moment, it’s essential to ensure that any trend you participate in still aligns with your core values and message. Brands whose content seems forced or disconnected can come across as inauthentic, which can be alienating to members of your audience.

By following these steps, any brand, no matter its size, can cultivate a trend or participate in an existing one. While not every attempt will result in a viral moment, like Brat or “Demure,” with a strategic, authentic approach, brands can create meaningful connections with their audience.

Social media trends in 2024 and beyond, are not just about staying relevant; they’re about shaping culture and offering a unique experience that speaks to people in new and exciting ways.

At Next-Mark, we have curated numerous client brand stories since 2005. If we can help, please contact us at 941.544.2765 or at info@next-mark.com.