15 Instagram Post Ideas to Increase Engagement

woman scrolling on phone looking for instagram post ideas

Instagram is one of the most powerful platforms for connecting with your audience, but with so many brands posting daily, how do you stand out? Whether you’re looking to increase likes, comments, shares, or follows, the secret to boosting engagement is creating posts that resonate with your audience, spark conversations, and encourage interaction. But don't worry, we’ve got you covered. Here are 15 Instagram post ideas to take your engagement to the next level in 2025.

1. Behind-the-Scenes Sneak Peeks

People love seeing what goes on behind closed doors. Sharing a behind-the-scenes look at how your products are made or what goes into a photoshoot can create a sense of exclusivity and connection with your followers.

Why It Works:

It humanizes your brand and allows followers to feel like they’re part of your inner circle.

See It In Action:

This post from Arctic Glacier Premium Ice™ is a simple example of this, showing candid photos of their employees working hard (and too busy to pose for the camera):

View this post on Instagram

A post shared by Arctic Glacier Premium Ice (@arcticglacierice)

2. User-Generated Content (UGC)

Repost your followers' content, whether they’ve tagged your brand in a post or used your product. UGC not only increases trust but encourages others to engage with your brand too.

Why It Works:

People love seeing their content featured. Plus, it shows you appreciate your audience, which builds loyalty.

See It In Action:

Sam’s Fresh Salsa consistently utilizes UGC, sharing different recipes created by their followers:

3. Polls and Questions in Stories

Instagram Stories offer great engagement opportunities with polls, quizzes, and questions. Create interactive polls or ask thought-provoking questions to get your followers talking.

Why It Works:

It’s easy for followers to engage with these quick, interactive features, and they make your audience feel heard.

4. Customer Reviews and Testimonials

Sharing a glowing review or testimonial from a happy customer can be a great way to build trust and credibility. It’s social proof in action.

Why It Works:

Testimonials build credibility and show potential customers that others love your products or services.

See It In Action:

This post from Trasca & Co. Eatery is a great example of a testimonial post in action; a simple copy and paste from a Google review, with a graphic overlay on a video, is a simple way to create an engaging, credibility-building post:

5. Limited-Time Offers or Flash Sales

Offer a limited-time discount or promotion to create urgency. Make it exclusive to your Instagram followers so they feel like they're getting a special deal.

Why It Works:

The fear of missing out drives action. People are more likely to engage when they know time is running out.

6. Product Demos or Tutorials

Show your followers how to use your products in fun, engaging ways. Create tutorial videos or demos that help your audience see your product in action.

Why It Works:

It educates your audience while showcasing your product’s value. Plus, videos are super engaging and shareable.

See It In Action:

Hootsuite gave viewers a brief tutorial on how to schedule posts on their platform:

7. Fun Memes or Pop Culture References

Everyone loves a good meme, and when it’s relevant to your brand, it’s a fun way to show off your personality. Tie in pop culture references or trending memes that fit your brand’s voice.

Why It Works:

It’s shareable and relatable content. Plus, tapping into trending topics gives your brand a voice in current conversations.

See It In Action:

You probably see this all the time, varying in any content type! But to spark some inspiration, here’s a meme Later.com shared using notable moments from the 2025 Oscars:

8. Instagram Reels for Quick, Engaging Content

Create Reels that show off your products, and services, or just have some fun with trends.

Why It Works:

Reels get priority in Instagram's algorithm, meaning more people will see your content. Plus, they’re highly engaging and fun!

9. Contests and Giveaways

Who doesn’t love free stuff? Running a contest or giveaway is one of the most effective ways to increase engagement. Make it simple, like tagging friends or sharing the post to enter.

Why It Works:

It incentivizes followers to interact with your content, and people love the opportunity to win something.

See It In Action:

This is a common tactic for a reason! Here’s how Alani Nu tapped into this post idea to help celebrate their birthday:

10. Share a Customer Success Story

People love hearing stories about how your product or service has made a positive impact. Share a customer success story highlighting how your brand helped solve a problem.

Why It Works:

It shows your product’s real-life value and builds emotional connections with your audience.

11. Flashback or Throwback Posts

Throwback posts (TBT to #TBT) offer a nostalgic look back at your brand’s journey. Share milestones or early photos of your product, services, or team.

Why It Works:

It sparks emotions and shows how far your brand has come while paying homage to its history, making it more relatable and authentic to followers.

12. Do An Instagram Takeover

Allow an employee of yours or partner with an influencer to take over your Instagram account for a day. They can share their experience with your brand or product and engage with your followers directly.

Why It Works:

People love people! They like to engage with people and see real people on their feeds. Plus, it’s a fun and fresh way to engage followers by shaking things up and putting a new face or spin on your content.

13. Share Fun Facts or Tips

Position yourself as an expert in your field by sharing valuable tips, fun facts, or industry insights. It could be anything from quick life hacks to deep industry knowledge.

Why It Works:

People love learning something new and valuable. Sharing this type of content establishes your brand as a trusted resource.

See It In Action:

Check out this post where we show best practices for email subject lines:

14. Showcase Employee Stories or Profiles

Share short employee spotlights to introduce your team to your audience. This will humanize your brand and build trust by showing the faces behind your business.

Why It Works:

It creates a personal connection with your audience and shows the real people who make your brand happen.

See It In Action:

We love this post from Architectural Digest, where they spotlight one of their AD 100 Designers, even asking him to share his answers to some common questions:

Carousel posts are great for sharing multiple images, tutorials, or product showcases. Use this feature to tell a story, show off several product angles, or share educational content step by step.

Why It Works:

Carousels encourage people to swipe through, keeping them engaged longer. Plus, they allow you to share more in one post without overwhelming your followers.

Use These Instagram Post Ideas to Increase Engagement

There you have it—15 Instagram post ideas to increase engagement and connect with your audience in 2025. From interactive polls to behind-the-scenes content, there’s no shortage of ways to create posts that grab attention and keep your followers coming back for more. The key is consistency, creativity, and staying true to your brand’s voice.

Need help with creative Instagram post ideas or your social media strategy? Let RANDOM help you create engaging content that stands out. Reach out today!

5 Women in Business Making a Difference | International Women’s Day 2025

faces of multiple women with blog title

In 2025, we are witnessing an exciting and much-needed shift in the business landscape. More women are stepping into positions of power, successfully leading companies, and making their voices heard across various industries. They're using their influence to support other women and foster more inclusive workplaces. This International Women's Day, we recognize notable figures demonstrating that business success and social responsibility can go hand in hand.

As a women-owned business founded by Lauren Patterson, RANDOM recognizes the importance of empathy, inclusion, and driving meaningful change. We take this topic seriously and enthusiastically embrace the celebration of International Women’s Day. In honor of this year’s theme, "Accelerating Action," let’s highlight some incredible women leaders. These female entrepreneurs use their influence to empower others, break barriers, and create lasting positive impacts.

Selena Gomez Celebrates the Beauty of Acceptance

When Selena Gomez launched Rare Beauty, she didn’t just create another beauty brand; she aimed to make a difference. Rare Beauty's mission is centered around self-acceptance, inclusivity, and celebrating diversity. Selena wanted to create a space where “beauty is not about the perfect image; it’s about being unique.”

Rare Beauty goes beyond simply selling makeup; it’s a community where women feel seen and valued for who they are. They're redefining beauty standards, emphasizing mental health, and creating a supportive environment for those who struggle with self-esteem. By doing so, Rare Beauty has quickly established itself as an industry leader.

Image of Selena Gomez, CEO of Rare Beauty, one of five women being recognized for International Women's Day

Rare Beauty's success lies in its community-building approach. By prioritizing mental health and inclusivity, Selena Gomez is fostering an empowered and engaged community that reflects the diversity of the world around us.

Michele Buck Empowers Change From Within

At the helm of The Hershey Company is Michele Buck, a powerful advocate for internal change agents. As the first female CEO in the company’s history, she has championed initiatives that empower her team and cultivate a culture of inclusivity in the workplace. Under her leadership, Hershey's approach to women in leadership has evolved, earning recognition as one of America’s most female-friendly corporations. Michele’s influence extends beyond reshaping corporate culture; she has positioned the brand to embrace sustainability, employee welfare, and community outreach more meaningfully.

In an interview with Harvard Business Review, Michele emphasized the importance of empowering employees to act as change agents. She believes fostering a culture of responsibility can drive internal transformation, leading to a more engaged workforce and tremendous success.

Image of Michele Buck, CEO of Hershey, one of five women being recognized for International Women's Day

Michele Buck has shown how powerful it can be to empower people from within a company. And with her approaching retirement, it’s clear that her efforts will continuously influence Hershey's and modern business changes.

Melanie Perkins Made Accessibility to Design a Reality

Melanie Perkins, founder of Canva, is another excellent example of female entrepreneurs turning an idea into something truly revolutionary. What began as a small startup has become one of the world's most popular online design platforms. Melanie’s vision was straightforward: to make design accessible to everyone, regardless of skill level. Her strategy has paid off, as Canva is now valued at over $40 billion.

In an interview with Entrepreneur, Melanie shared her journey of turning her idea into reality, emphasizing the importance of perseverance and belief in one’s vision. Canva exemplifies female leadership that empowers users, simplifies complex tasks, and democratizes creativity. 

Image of Melanie Perkins, CEO of Canva, one of five women being recognized

Melanie's inclusive approach and commitment to making a positive impact transformed Canva into one of the most beloved companies worldwide. (Just ask our specialists!) Her story proves that innovation and inclusivity can go hand in hand.

Mary Barra Remains Resilient in a Male-dominated Industry

Mary Barra is one of the most prominent female CEOs in the world, having led GM (General Motors) since 2014. Her leadership has been pivotal in advancing GM’s commitment to sustainability, including the company’s goal to transition to an all-electric future. Under her guidance, GM has made strides toward promoting workplace diversity, gender equality, and environmental responsibility.

In an exclusive interview with Forbes, Mary discussed her focus on creating a culture of innovation. She supports empowering employees to make bold decisions and aims to ensure sustainability remains at the core of GM’s mission.

Image of Mary Barra, CEO of General Motors, one of five women being recognized

Mary Barra’s leadership at GM demonstrates how female CEOs bring unique perspectives to industries traditionally dominated by men. She drives positive change in the automotive sector by emphasizing innovation, inclusivity, and sustainability.

Lauren Patterson Upholds Her Values

At RANDOM, we’ve built our business on the values of empathy, curiosity, and inclusion. Our founder, Lauren Patterson, aimed to create something unique in digital marketing. She yearned to create an agency that prioritized genuine connections with clients and stakeholders over mere profit margins. RANDOM was since established as a female-founded leader in digital innovation. We're driven by a commitment to empower clients, support businesses, and make a positive impact in the lives of everyone we work with.

Lauren’s journey from the traditional agency world to founding RANDOM was fueled by her passion for developing authentic, human-centered marketing strategies. As a team, we take great pride in ensuring our clients, partners, and team members experience a brand built on these core values.

Image of Lauren Patterson, CEO of That Random Agency

Lauren’s leadership exemplifies the profound impact that steadfast personal values and beliefs can have at a company's core. Regardless of the brand's size or the team, a genuine and heartfelt approach can create meaningful change and inspire others to follow suit.

The Future is Female: Supporting Women Entrepreneurs on International Women's Day

From Fortune 500 companies to startups, female entrepreneurs and CEOs are creating more inclusive, sustainable, and empathetic business cultures. These women are using their positions to empower others, drive action towards gender equality, and make a lasting impact in their respective industries.

As we celebrate the power of women in leadership this International Women's Day (and every day), let’s recognize the value that diversity and inclusive leadership bring to business. Women entrepreneurs are changing the world for the better.

At RANDOM, we are proud to be a women-owned business that strives to lead with vision, passion, and empathy. By embracing these values, we can build meaningful connections with our clients and partners and inspire others to do the same. Let’s continue to empower one another, break down barriers, and build a future where women lead the charge.

How Brands Can Speak Their Audience's Love Language in 2025

hands in shape of a heart to represent love language

In a world where consumers are bombarded with endless content, how do brands ensure they truly connect with their audience? The answer lies in understanding and speaking their love language. In 2025, it’s no longer enough to simply sell a product or service; brands must cultivate emotional connections, making their customers feel valued and understood. Just like in personal relationships, when brands speak their audience’s love language, the bond grows stronger, leading to loyalty, trust, and higher conversions.

But what does this "love language" mean for marketers? And how can brands use it to enhance their digital strategies in 2025? Let’s break it down.

1. Words of Affirmation: Speak to Their Hearts with Meaningful Content

In the age of personalization, customers want to feel validated. Words of affirmation are all about using language to uplift and encourage. This love language is key for brands that want to inspire their audience and establish a deeper emotional connection.

How Brands Can Use This:

Example:

Brands like Ben and Jerry’s have mastered this love language with empowering messages and speaking out on issues their customers care about. Ben and Jerry’s inspires action and confidence, making their audience feel capable and affirmed. In 2025, brands can take note of this as users are increasingly caring about company transparency and values. 

2. Quality Time: Be Present Where It Counts

Quality time is about meaningful engagement. Customers appreciate when a brand makes time for them, listens to their needs, and shows up when it matters most.

How Brands Can Use This:

Example:

Duolingo has done a brilliant job of creating a fun, interactive community. They engage with their social media  followers in witty, relatable ways. Duolingo’s “community time” comes in the form of playful posts, memes, and prompt responses, making followers feel like they’re part of an inside joke or club.

In 2025, using interactive features like polls, live sessions, and user-generated content will help brands build stronger communities and drive consistent engagement.

3. Acts of Service: Going Beyond the Transaction

When it comes to acts of service, customers love when brands go the extra mile—without asking for something in return. This love language is about showing care by providing exceptional experiences that don’t feel transactional.

How Brands Can Use This:

Example:

Glossier is a master at this love language. Their seamless shopping experience, fast shipping, and top-notch customer service team show an exceptional level of service that keeps customers coming back. Brands can learn from this by prioritizing the process, offering personalized support, and constantly looking for ways to enhance the customer experience. 

4. Gifts: Thoughtful, Unexpected Tokens of Appreciation

Everyone loves receiving a gift, especially when it feels personal and meaningful. In 2025, brands can use this love language to reward loyalty and delight customers with unexpected, thoughtful gestures.

How Brands Can Use This:

Example:

Sephora has nailed the art of gift-giving with their Beauty Insider loyalty program. Not only do they send personalized rewards based on customer preferences, but they also surprise customers with special gifts, like birthday freebies. In 2025, brands should incorporate this love language into their campaigns by offering surprise digital downloads, personalized product samples, or exclusive offers for social media followers.

5. Physical Touch: Connecting Through Visual and Sensory Content

While physical touch may not seem immediately applicable to digital marketing, sensory experiences play a crucial role in emotional engagement. In the online world, this translates into the powerful use of visual content and sensory-driven experiences.

How Brands Can Use This:

Example:

Apple does an incredible job of showcasing sensory experiences in their digital marketing. Their product launch videos are designed to create an emotional connection through visuals, sounds, and even how the product feels. Apple’s use of cinematic storytelling makes the brand feel tangible, even through a screen.

In 2025, brands can use similar strategies with AR, VR, and immersive experiences to allow customers to interact with their products in meaningful ways.

Speak Your Audience’s Love Language and Watch Loyalty Grow

In 2025, how you make your customers feel is just as important as the actions you want them to take. . Speaking  your audience’s love language will forge deeper connections and help build a loyal, engaged community.

As a brand, understanding and embracing these love languages allows you to create authentic relationships and differentiate yourself in an oversaturated market. So, what’s your brand’s love language? The key to standing out and driving customer loyalty in 2025 is speaking it fluently.

Ready to connect with your audience in a whole new way? Let Random help you develop a strategy that speaks directly to their hearts. Reach out today, and let’s turn your brand into a love language they’ll never forget. ❤️

Random Round-Up: Social Media Updates and News, November 2024

stack of electronics to simulate social media updates and title of blog post

As we move into December, it’s time to dive into the latest social media updates from November, so here’s an early present for you: 

A Brief Summary of Social Media Updates and News from November 2024:

1. Say goodbye to following hashtags on Instagram.

It’s official: Instagram will remove the option to follow specific hashtags of interest, meaning those posts will no longer appear on your feed. And, you can probably guess why…

notification from Instagram about a new update

The removal of this feature strongly correlates with the effort to combat “hashtag spammers.” Hashtags have been spammed since the beginning of time, with trending hashtags collecting unrelated content due to spam accounts adding irrelevant hashtags to their posts to get more reach.
But are we surprised? After all, hashtags have been on the downfall for a while now…

Read more about the removal: https://www.socialmediatoday.com/news/instagrams-removing-option-follow-hashtags/733155/

2. You thought that was the only Instagram update? Sike.

Instagram also announced that they are testing a way for users to “hit the reset button.”

Screenshots showing a new update on Instagram

In other words, they will allow users to reset their existing content recommendations that decide what they see in Explore, Reels, and Feed.

To us, it sounds like Instagram is finally understanding that sometimes we all just need a fresh start. And, let’s be honest, the algorithms can truly be so unforgiving. You look hippos up ONCE…

Want a reset? Learn how: https://about.instagram.com/blog/announcements/reset-instagram-content-suggestions

3. Ads are (potentially) coming to Threads next year.

Surprise, surprise. It’s been uncovered that Meta might bring ads to its Threads platform as early as next year. From the sound of it, this will be a slow rollout of the new feature, giving select advertisers access to the opportunity starting in January.

Threads platform loading page

Given a large portion of Meta’s revenue is from advertising, this doesn’t come as a surprise. So, we’ll see how long it takes for all brands to have access to ads on Threads! 

Get more information: https://www.theverge.com/2024/11/13/24295735/threads-ads-rumor-2025 

4. (Bluesky is reaching new limits.) coming to Threads next year.

Bluesky isn’t the first social media platform to try to enter the already saturated space. However, last month, Bluesky made waves with a reported spike in new user activity, reaching over 20 million users.

Bluesky social media platform account page

Where are these users coming from, you ask? First, we’ll let you take an X-tremely educated (or even an uneducated one, really) guess.

Bluesky recently welcomed millions of new users with open arms. The platform witnessed an increase of over 2.5 million new users just in the week following the election. It seems the countless platform changes, paired with Elon’s well-known political involvement, drove X users to find another place to interact.

Will you be adding Bluesky to your social media rounds? Learn more about the spike in users: ​​https://www.usatoday.com/story/tech/2024/11/20/what-is-bluesky-user-count/76451731007/ 

5. Netflix appreciates the little things, like Moments to be shared.

Technically, this happened at the very end of October, but most people didn’t find out until November, so it still counts. Right?

We all know and love our movies, shows, and whatever else you stream on your TV. And Netflix knows it, too! Moments, a new mobile feature that launched globally, allows Netflix users to easily save and share their favorite Netflix scenes.

Screenshot of Netflix's new update for social media being used

Learn more about how it works: https://www.netflix.com/tudum/articles/netflix-moments 

6. Pinterest got even more personalized.

Pinterest just gets it. Honestly.

Struggling to find that perfect gift for your best friend? Is your mom asking what’s on your Christmas list again? Well, Pinterest just made it easy for users to find inspiration for their holiday wishlists and even easier to shop what they previously saved.

With Pinterest’s new gift guides from well-known celebrities like Paris Hilton, Emma Chamberlain, and more, users can explore thousands of curated gift guides spanning 27 categories. And when anyone saves a pin from one of those gift guides, it’ll be saved directly to their very own shoppable wishlist.

Paris Hilton's gift guide on Pinterest

We know you didn’t ask, but we will absolutely be using this feature. Learn more about it: https://newsroom.pinterest.com/news/why-pinterest-is-the-go-to-place-to-shop-holiday-gifts-this-year 

7. Snapchat launches its first Sponsored Snaps campaign.

Thought Snapchat became irrelevant? Yeah, us too. But not for lack of trying!

Snapchat launched its first-ever Sponsored Snaps campaign, sending sponsored content directly to users’ inboxes as if they received a snap. And their first promotion? A DM video message to promote the new movie Wicked.

Screenshot of Wicked's snapchat ad

We won’t go into too much detail here, but all we know is that if Sponsored Snaps escalate and start to overrun Snapchatters’ inboxes, well, we’re not sure that will be received all too well. 

See the snap: https://www.socialmediatoday.com/news/snapchat-announces-sponsored-snap-campaign/733270/#:~:text=After%20announcing%20Sponsored%20Snaps%20back,the%20new%20movie%20%E2%80%9CWicked%E2%80%9D. 

This is not a platform update, but it's definitely news to know. Despite criticism of the proposed bill, the Australian government has officially moved forward with its proposed restrictions on social media usage. The restrictions will effectively ban users under the age of 16 from social media apps. 

Some key takeaways if you don’t want to read the article:

Learn more about the ban: https://www.socialmediatoday.com/news/australia-pushes-ahead-teen-social-media-ban/733662/ 

That’s it! See you next month.

Need expert guidance on the latest social media updates and trends? You’re in the right place. Get in touch with us today!

Big Brands on TikTok: How Brands like ScrubDaddy, Duolingo, and Others Are Winning Over Gen Z

boy holding up phone to represent tiktok and social media

If you think TikTok is just another playground for Gen Z, you’re right. Once upon a time, this app was known as a hotspot for dance challenges and lip-syncing videos, but (depending on your FYP) we’ve definitely skipped a few chapters. Big brands are now kicking it into high gear and getting on Gen Z’s level. Brands like ScrubDaddy, RyanAir, Duolingo, and more are tapping into the app’s culture and running with it. So grab your phone because we’re diving into how these brands are crushing it on TikTok and what you can learn from their immaculate vibes.

    1. ScrubDaddy

    First up is the smiley sponge brand that has stolen Gen Z’s hearts and given dish duty a new name. Here’s how they’re killing it on TikTok:

    A ScrubDaddy TikTok that made us laugh:

    @scrubdaddy

    Oof. #scrubdaddy #smile #cleantok #cleaningtiktok #greenscreen

    ♬ original sound - Olive the Griffon

    2. Duolingo

    Next, we have DuoLingo, the language-learning app that’s taken TikTok by storm with its quirky (sometimes even insulting?) mascot, Duo the owl. ‘Hoo’(t) knew an owl could be so entertaining?

    A Duolingo TikTok that made us lol:

    @duolingo

    sad g(owl) hours #duoplushie #duolingo #languagelearning #emo

    ♬ Rio romeo - .𝖒𝖊𝖓'🎧★

    3. Empire State Building

    The Empire State Building (yes, the building) is not only an iconic NYC landmark but also an iconic TikToker.

    An Empire State Building TikTok that had us singing:

    @empirestatebldg

    Who wants to see the blob anyway #empirestatebuilding #newyork #nyc

    ♬ original sound - 🌸🩷Just Katie🩷🌸

    4. San Diego Zoo

    What Gen Z do you know doesn’t absolutely ADORE cute animals?! Exactly. Enter the San Diego Zoo. This zoo is delivering the cuteness, one TikTok at a time.

    A TikTok from San Diego Zoo that had us in tears:

    @sandiegozoo

    Moo who? Throwback to Akobi the pygmy hippo being a rascaly little nugget.

    ♬ original sound - Xylophone

    5. Rare Beauty

    Rare Beauty, founded by beloved icon Selena Gomez, is not just another makeup brand; it’s a movement.

    A Rare Beauty TikTok that says it all:

    @rarebeauty

    Consider this your formal introduction @Selena Gomez 😤 BEYOND honored to partner with @SEPHORA for the second year in a row to #MakeARareImpact on Oct. 10th 100% of Rare Beauty global sales (online and in-store!) will go to the Rare Impact Fund to increase access to mental health resources! #rarebeauty #selenagomez #sherunsthesouth #sephora #mentalhealthmatters

    ♬ original sound - zeusuploads

    6. Ryanair

    Maybe you’ve flown Ryanair, maybe you haven’t. One thing for sure is you’ve seen one of their TikToks come up on your FYP.

    Fly to TikTok to watch this video from Ryanair:

    @ryanair

    we do it all✈️ #ryanair

    ♬ original sound - Ryanair

    7. Recess

    Take a Recess is taking one of Gen Z’s favorite things and using it to their advantage. Full of cute videos, user-generated content, and drink inspiration, Recess’ TikTok is growing each and every day.

    Take a Recess and watch this TikTok to understand:

    @takearecess

    🍋giveaway alert!🍋‍🟩 want to try this yuzu “margarita” at home? @TheYuzuCo and @TakeARecess are choosing 3 winners to receive: a YUZUCO Yuzu Duo juice set, plus three Recess Mocktail 12-packs to enter: 💛 follow @takearecess on tiktok and @theyuzuco on IG 💚 tag a friend who’d try Sober October 💛 like this post ready to try the mocktail yourself? find the recipe below: ingredients: 🍋 1 oz YUZUCO 100% Yuzu Juice 🍋‍🟩 2–4 oz Recess Zero Proof lime “margarita” 🍯 1 oz agave steps: • salt rim of your favorite glass • add YUZUCO yuzu juice and agave into a shaker • add ice and shake for 20 seconds • strain over fresh ice into glass • top with Recess Zero Proof lime “margarita” - T&Cs: US only. official sweepstakes rules: no purchase necessary. you must be over 18 years, a legal US resident. giveaway starts on october 23, 2024 and ends 11:59 pm est on october 25, 2024. odds of winning depend on the total number of entries received. void where prohibited. winner selected and notified on october 28, 2024.

    ♬ original sound - Recess

    What Other Brands on TikTok Can Learn

    Brands like ScrubDaddy, Duolingo, the Empire State Building, and others are proving that Tiktok isn’t just for influencers and viral dances; it’s a powerful platform for connecting with Gen Z. By embracing the following strategies, these brands are winning hearts (and followers) on TikTok. 

    1. Embrace Authenticity: Gen Z is all about the ‘real deal.’ Ditch the corporate speak and show your true self. Your followers will thank you.
    2. Be Witty and Creative: Humor goes a long way on TikTok. Brands that can crack a joke or two will likely create shareable content that resonates. If you are not part of Gen-Z, maybe tap the nearest Gen-Z on the shoulder for this one…
    3. Leverage User-Generated Content: Encourage your audience to share their experiences. User-generated content is gold and helps create a community around your brand.
    4. Stay Current with Trends: Keep an eye on TikTok trends and adapt them to fit your brand. Jumping on challenges or using popular sounds can help you reach a broader audience.
    5. Engage with Your Audience: Respond to comments and engage in conversations–Even on videos you didn’t create! Building relationships with your followers fosters loyalty, and engaging with other accounts helps brand awareness. 

    So, if you want to take your brand to the next level on TikTok, it’s time to embrace the Gen Z vibes and let your creativity shine! Whether through fun challenges, relatable content, or genuine engagement, a world of opportunity awaits you on this platform. 

    Ready to rumble? Let’s start crafting a strategy that captures the spirit of your brand while engaging the generation that’s making an impact! Discover our capabilities and schedule a discovery call today!

    Stop Overselling on Social: How to Embrace Authenticity and Build Community

    girl dancing and being authentic

    Hey there, social media strategists! If you’re like many brands, you’ve probably been caught in the cycle of overselling on social media. While turning every post into a sales pitch is tempting, it’s time to rethink that approach. Keep reading to learn why dialing down the hard sell can be a game-changer for building genuine connections and a thriving community.

    Why Overselling on Social Media Doesn’t Work

    Let’s face it: constant sales pitches can be a turn-off. When your social media feed is packed with promotional content, your audience may start tuning out or unfollowing. Here’s why:

    iphone displaying a list of ins and outs of sales pitch content on social media
    • Saturation: Social media users are bombarded with ads. If your content doesn’t add value or engage with them on a personal level, it risks blending into the background. 
    • Trust Issues: Overly salesy content can come off as inauthentic. Trust is built through meaningful interactions, not just transactions.
    • Engagement Decline: A feed full  of promotions can lead to lower engagement rates. Users engage more with content that resonates with them emotionally or offers value.

    Embrace Authenticity: The Secret Ingredient

    Authenticity isn’t just a buzzword; it’s the foundation of genuine connections. Here’s how you can integrate authenticity into your social media strategy: 

    Examples of Authenticity in Action

    Patagonia: Known for its environmental activism, Patagonia shares stories on social media about its sustainability efforts and community initiatives, building a loyal following that aligns with its values.

    Glossier: The beauty brand engages with its community by sharing real customer stories and feedback, turning its audience into brand advocates.

    Building Community: How to Foster Genuine Connections

    Creating a community on social media around your brand is about more than just growing your follower count. It’s about building a space where people feel valued and heard. Here’s how:

    Community Building in Action

    Nike: Nike encourages users to share their fitness journeys and achievements, creating a supportive and inspiring community around its brand.

    Starbucks: Starbucks leverages user-generated content by featuring customer photos and stories, which builds a sense of community and brand loyalty. 

    Finding the Balance: Less Selling, More Connecting

    Striking the right balance between promoting your products and building genuine connections is key. Here’s a quick checklist to help you find that sweet spot:

    Ditching the overselling approach in favor of authenticity and community-building is a powerful strategy for long-term success on social media. By sharing your brand’s story, engaging personally, and fostering a genuine community, you'll build trust and create lasting relationships with your audience.

    So, take a step back from the hard sell and start focusing on what truly matters: authentic connections and meaningful engagement. Your audience will thank you for it, and your social media presence will thrive!

    At That RANDOM Agency, we utilize two of our core values – curiosity and collaboration – to bring you consistent content helping you learn about the great digital landscape and how to operate like a boss within it. Check out our other blog posts on our Random Thoughts page, or schedule a discovery call today!

    How to Find Your Podcast Niche: A Step-by-Step Guide

    two men recording a podcast with a microphone and phone

    You’ve probably heard the jokes - “everybody has a podcast these days.” Which implies that the podcast space is a bit overcrowded at the moment. It’s also exactly why you need to find your podcast niche.

    Starting a podcast is an exciting venture, but finding your niche is essential to stand out in the crowded podcasting space. A well-defined niche helps you attract a dedicated audience and makes your podcast more memorable. Here’s a guide on how to identify and refine your podcast niche.

    What is a Podcast Niche?

    person-shaped icon filled in with red in the middle of a crowd of black icons to represent standing out or finding a "niche"

    A podcast niche is a specific topic or area of interest that your podcast focuses on. It’s the unique angle that sets your show apart from others. By zeroing in on a niche, you can target a particular audience that is passionate about that subject. Your niche defines your podcast's identity and appeal, whether it’s true crime, personal finance, or quirky hobbies.

    How to Determine Your Podcast Niche

    Identify Your Passions and Expertise

    Start by listing topics you’re passionate about and knowledgeable about. Your enthusiasm will translate into engaging content. For example, a podcast exploring historical destinations could be a great fit if you're an avid traveler and a history buff.

    Research Market Demand

    Check if there’s an audience for your chosen topic. Use tools like Google Trends or podcast directories to see how popular your potential niche is. Look for gaps in existing podcasts where you can offer a fresh perspective.

    Analyze Competitors

    Listen to other podcasts in your chosen field. Identify what they’re doing well and where they might be lacking. This analysis helps you find opportunities to offer something unique or improve on existing content.

    Define Your Target Audience

    Understand who your ideal listeners are. Consider their age, interests, and challenges. Tailor your podcast content to address their needs and preferences. Creating listener personas can help in honing your focus.

    Refine Your Unique Angle

    Develop a unique perspective or format for your podcast. Maybe you’re bringing a new twist to an old topic or focusing on an underserved sub-niche. The goal is to carve out a space where your podcast can shine.

    Tips and Examples for Refining Your Podcast Niche

    Test Different Formats

    Experiment with podcast formats—interviews, solo episodes, or panel discussions—to see what resonates with your audience. For instance, a true crime podcast could work well with a mix of investigative storytelling and guest interviews.

    Engage with Your Audience

    Use social media and listener feedback to gauge interest and refine your content. Engage with your audience through surveys or Q&A sessions to understand their preferences and adjust your podcast accordingly.

    Create a Content Calendar

    Plan your episodes around your niche to ensure consistent and relevant content. For example, if your niche is personal finance, you might align episodes with tax season, retirement planning, or budgeting tips.

    Network with Industry Experts

    Collaborate with experts or influencers within your niche to boost your credibility and attract more listeners. Their endorsement can provide valuable exposure and enhance your podcast’s reputation.

    Stay Adaptable

    Be open to evolving your niche based on audience feedback and industry trends. For instance, if you start with a general health podcast but find a specific interest in mental wellness among your listeners, consider focusing more on that topic.

    Examples of Successful Podcast Niches

    "How I Built This"

    This podcast by Guy Raz explores the stories behind successful companies. It’s a great example of focusing on entrepreneurship and business insights.

    Listen to the latest episode

    "Lore"

    Aaron Mahnke’s podcast delves into historical myths and legends, combining storytelling with historical research. It stands out by merging true crime with folklore.

    Listen to the latest episode

    "The Daily"

    The New York Times podcast offers a daily news briefing, catering to listeners who want a quick, in-depth look at current events. Its niche is daily news analysis and reporting.

    Listen to the latest episode

    Finding your podcast niche is crucial for building a dedicated audience and standing out in the podcasting world. You can create a podcast that resonates and thrives by focusing on your passions, understanding your audience, and refining your unique angle. 

    At That RANDOM Agency, we utilize two of our core values – curiosity and collaboration – to bring you consistent content helping you learn about the great digital landscape and how to operate like a boss within it. Check out our other blog posts on our Random Thoughts page, or schedule a discovery call today!

    Recipe for Engagement: Using User-Generated Content to Promote Your Food and Drink Brand

    phone screen showing man recording behind the camera in the kitchen representing a food and drink brand online

    Breaking through the monotonous feed on social media with creative, eye-catching, and engaging content is every brand’s goal, right? But we’re all human, and we all have limits. Creativity and innovation can only go so far. When we look at the recipe for engagement, one ingredient stands out as both a powerful and authentic way to engage with your audience: user-generated content (UGC). 

    For food and drink brands, leveraging UGC can be a game-changer, transforming loyal customers into brand advocates and amplifying your reach without breaking the bank. Let’s crack one open to see how you can use UGC to boost your brand’s visibility and engagement. 

    What is User-Generated Content?

    User-generated content, or UGC, refers to any form of content, such as photos, videos, reviews, or social media posts, created by your customers rather than by your brand. Think of it as digital word-of-mouth, where your audience shares their personal experiences with your products.UGC is often more relatable and trustworthy to potential customers than traditional advertising. That’s because UGC comes from real people using your real product for real in their real everyday lives. And when people share how much they enjoyed your product, more people want to experience it, too! Really!

    screenshots of videos from Sam's Fresh Salsa on instagram showcasing the use of user generated content versus brand content

    Why UGC is a Game-Changer for Food and Drink Brands

    1. Authenticity and Trust: In a world where consumers are bombarded with advertisements, authenticity is key.
    2. Increased Engagement: UGC encourages more interaction from your audience.
    screenshots of comments on instagram showing effectiveness of user generated content
    3. Cost-Effective Content Creation: Creating high-quality content can be expensive and time-consuming.

    How to Effectively Use UGC for Your Food and Drink Brand

    1. Encourage Content Creation: Start by motivating your customers to share their experiences.
    screenshots of photos and comments on instagram from a food and drink brand
    2. Share and Celebrate UGC: Once you've gathered some impressive user-generated content, showcase it!
    3. Engage with Your Audience: Don't just collect UGC; engage with it!
    4. Incorporate UGC into Your Marketing Strategy: Think beyond social media!
    5. Monitor and Measure Success: Keep an eye on the impact of your UGC efforts.

    Brands Harnessing The Power of UGC

    Many food and drink brands are doing their big one by sharing engaging UGC. Here are a few accounts that got us locked in:

    1. Whiny Baby

    Given that Whiny Baby’s entire brand revolves around bringing people together, this one isn’t surprising! As a small business just getting started, the Founder and CEO of Whiny Baby took to social media and asked all Whiny Babies for a favor–to head to their local stores, find Whiny Baby on the shelves, and share it on social media! Check out Founder Jess Druey’s cry for help and how wine lovers responded:

    girl holding up whiny baby wine to encourage user generated content
    girl signaling a secret or whisper holding whiny baby wine in a user generated content post
    2. Califia Farms

    It can be something as simple as having a cup of coffee in the morning that makes people feel seen! Califia Farms consistently shares relatable POVs and at-home coffee recipes created by their fans on their Instagram page. These two types of UGC are a great way to build community, connect with users, and create excitement for what’s next!

    girl showing two califia farms ice coffee products in a user generated content showcased on their profile
    3. Kodiak Cakes

    Another rendition of the recipe UGC route that has us coming back for more is Kodiak Cakes! Sharing recipes created by users who love your products is a great way to show love to your audience, inspire other users, and build a community of creative, food-loving individuals! C’mon, who wouldn’t want to try this delicious breakfast recipe?

    pancakes recipe using kodiak cakes in a user generated content video on their profile

    Incorporating user-generated content into your food and drink brand’s marketing strategy is like adding a secret ingredient that boosts flavor and appeal. It builds trust, increases engagement, and provides a cost-effective way to showcase your products. By encouraging your customers to share their experiences and celebrating their contributions, you can create a vibrant and authentic brand presence that resonates with your audience. Ready to cook up some engagement? Let RANDOM start harnessing the power of UGC and watch your brand’s online presence sizzle! Contact us today.

    More RANDOM Resources for Food & Beverage Brands: 

    Content Ideas for Food Brands

    The Importance of Seasonal and Timely Content 

    5 Food Brands That Just Get Social Media 2023 

    Are All Social Media Metrics Created Equal? 

    How to Measure the Success of Your Influencer Campaign Is SMS Right For Your Brand?

    At That RANDOM Agency, we utilize two of our core values – curiosity and collaboration – to bring you consistent content helping you learn about the great digital landscape and how to operate like a boss within it. Check out our other blog posts on our Random Thoughts page or schedule a discovery call today!