Social Media Predictions for 2025: What to Watch For
The trends that are reshaping how we connect, create & engage
By: Scott Barker
As we head towards 2025, the social media landscape is shifting faster than ever. Here’s my take on the trends that are already reshaping how we connect, create, and engage — and why they matter for Northern Arizona University.
1. AI-Generated Content
AI isn’t just a futuristic buzzword anymore, it’s here and it’s changing the way we produce content. From producing clever captions to generating entire videos, AI tools like ChatGPT and DALL·E are making content creation faster, smarter, and more personalized.For higher education, this will be a game-changer. And luckily for us, our NAU President Cruz Rivera has been an early adopter.
He’s explored it in fun ways on a personal level…
And how AI could benefit the higher education landscape as a whole
Imagine creating individualized recruitment messages for prospective students based on their interests or automating responses to FAQs without losing the human touch.
But let’s not get carried away with the fact that AI can’t and shouldn’t replace authenticity.
Over relying on machine generated content could lead to generic messaging that lacks human creativity.
My advice is to use AI as your assistant and for reference and not let it take over all the work you produce.
2. Short-Form Video: Still King, But Watch Out
Short-form content through TikTok, Instagram Reels, and YouTube Shorts is still reigning supreme. These quick clips are perfect for showcasing NAU’s vibrant campus life, from snowy mornings on the peaks to event coverages and games.
But I’m calling my predictions that long-form content is creeping back into the spotlight. As much as everyone loves a 15 to 30-second campus highlight, there’s a growing appetite for deeper, more meaningful stories.
Think mini-documentaries about alumni successes, student spotlights, or behind-the-scenes looks at unique programs.
Pair the two together: grab attention with a short teaser, then direct your audience to a longer, richer story.
3. Social Commerce Integration
Shopping on social media isn’t just for trendy brands anymore. Platforms like Instagram and Facebook are turning into virtual malls, where users can browse and buy without leaving the app. For universities, this means rethinking how we “sell” the college experience.
Could NAU use these tools to simplify application fees, streamline merch sales, or even promote unique academic programs like forestry or hotel and restaurant management? I believe so.
The challenge is to make it feel natural. The last thing students want is to feel like they’re being sold to at every turn. Social commerce at NAU could be less about pushing products and more about offering value. Think of exclusive discounts for prospective students who attend a virtual open house or interactive quizzes to help them “shop” for the perfect major.
4. Long-Form Content: Making a Comeback
There’s something satisfying about watching a piece of content that goes deeper than your typical short-form content does. Audiences are starting to crave substance, and that’s where long-form content comes in. For NAU, this is the perfect way to tell our story.
For Example, imagine a 10-minute video that follows a first-gen student through their first year or a blog series that breaks down what makes Flagstaff such an amazing college town.
Long-form content builds trust and gives people a reason to stick around.
Yes, it takes more effort, but the payoff includes a loyal, engaged audience who feels more connected to the brand.
BONUS: Creators that I find worth checking out are Colin and Samir on YouTube.
Colin and Samir are creators who’ve mastered the art of long-form storytelling, crafting videos that feel like documentaries. They are creators that focus on delivering knowledge from other creators and business professionals alike. Their deep dives into storytelling, such as “The Full Story of MrBeast,” combine research, compelling narratives, and high-quality production to keep viewers hooked from beginning to end.
They share facts and create an experience that weaves together personal insights, interviews, and cultural context to bring their stories to life.
What makes their content stand out is their attention to detail. They structure each video like a movie, with a beginning, middle, and end, and use thoughtful visuals and questions to keep the audience engaged.
Their production quality is top notch, with proper editing, clean sound, and cinematic visuals that make their videos feel polished and professional.
Final Thoughts
For NAU, these trends are exciting opportunities to reach our audience in new and creative ways.
- AI can help us work smarter, not harder
- Short-form videos are still essential, but let’s not ignore the depth that long-form content can offer. Especially as the trend starts to grow over time
- Social commerce is about making life easier for students, not just selling stuff.
