15 Companies with Good Social Media Strategies to Inspire Your Brand in 2025

Figuring out how to make your brand stand out on social media can feel like a puzzle. There are so many platforms and trends, it’s easy to get lost. But don’t worry, we’ve looked at some companies that are really good at this. They know how to connect with people and keep them interested. We’ll check out what makes their social media work so well, hoping it gives you some solid ideas for your own brand in 2025. It’s all about finding what clicks with your audience.

Key Takeaways

• Have clear goals for your social media. Decide what you want to achieve with each platform, whether it’s making people laugh or building your company’s image.
• Engage with your audience. Respond to comments, ask for opinions, and listen to what people are saying about your brand online.
• Try using content made by your users. Sharing photos or stories from your customers or staff can build trust and feel more real.
• Use video content. Short videos, like those on TikTok or Instagram Reels, tend to get more attention and reach more people.
• Be genuine and offer something useful. While promoting products is fine, focus on giving people a reason to follow you, like sharing helpful tips or funny posts.

1. Nike

Nike has always been a powerhouse when it comes to social media, and it’s not just about selling shoes. They’ve really mastered the art of storytelling. Instead of just showing their products, they focus on the athletes who use them, celebrating both the big wins and the struggles of the underdog. This approach makes the brand feel more human and connects with people on a deeper level.

Their strategy often involves showcasing inspiring moments and achievements, which really taps into the emotional side of sports and fitness. It’s less about a hard sell and more about building a community around shared passion and aspiration. They understand that people want to feel part of something bigger, and their social media content delivers that.

Nike’s social media presence is a masterclass in building brand loyalty through shared values and aspirational content, rather than just product promotion.

Here’s a quick look at what makes their approach stand out:

• Focus on Athletes: Highlighting the journeys and triumphs of athletes, big or small.
• Inspirational Storytelling: Crafting narratives that go beyond the product to touch on themes of perseverance and achievement.
• Community Building: Creating a space where fans and athletes can connect with the brand and each other.
• Visual Appeal: Using high-quality imagery and video that captures the energy and emotion of sports.

2. GoPro

GoPro really knows how to make its customers the stars of the show. Their social media, especially on Instagram and TikTok, is practically a highlight reel of what people are doing with their cameras. It’s not just about showing off the product; it’s about showing what the product enables . Think epic mountain biking runs, deep-sea diving adventures, or just a really cool day out with friends – all captured from a unique perspective.

They’ve built a whole community around user-generated content (UGC), and it works wonders. Instead of just talking about themselves, they let their users do the talking, or rather, the showing . This approach feels way more real and relatable than polished ads. It’s like getting a recommendation from a friend who’s actually used the gear.

Here’s a quick look at how they make UGC shine:

• Branded Hashtags: They encourage users to share their experiences using specific hashtags, making it easy to find and collect content.
• Featuring Customers: The best user videos and photos get reposted on GoPro’s official channels, giving creators exposure and making others want to join in.
• Contests and Challenges: Offering prizes for the most creative or exciting content really gets people motivated to capture and share their adventures.

It’s pretty impressive how much content they manage to put out. Reports suggest that a huge chunk of their social media photos and videos comes directly from their users. This not only saves them a ton of content creation effort but also builds serious brand loyalty and trust. People see what others are doing and think, "Yeah, I want to do that too!"

The strategy is simple but effective: make it easy and rewarding for customers to share their best moments, and then amplify those moments. It turns customers into brand advocates and creates a constant stream of authentic, exciting content.

3. Airbnb

When you think about Airbnb, what usually comes to mind? It’s not just about finding a place to stay; it’s about the whole experience. Their social media really leans into this, showing off some seriously cool and unique places you can book. Think treehouses, old train cars, or even themed rooms. They’re all about the visuals, using platforms like Instagram, TikTok, and Pinterest to showcase these amazing spots.

They’ve also gotten pretty good at partnering with other big names. Remember that time they teamed up with Mattel for a life-sized Polly Pocket house? It was a smart move, tapping into that 90s nostalgia that a lot of people, especially Millennials, really connect with. It shows they understand how to create buzz and make people dream about their next trip.

Airbnb’s strategy isn’t just about showing off fancy houses; it’s about selling a lifestyle and a unique adventure. They make you want to explore the world, one amazing stay at a time.

It’s not always about direct sales, either. While you might not book a place right after seeing it, seeing all these incredible options builds their brand image. It makes Airbnb a place you go to when you’re looking for something special, not just a bed for the night. They’re masters at making you daydream about travel, and that’s a powerful way to build brand loyalty. Check out their approach to user-generated content to see how they build community. See their campaigns

4. Glossier

Glossier really changed the game for beauty brands on social media. Before them, it felt like you only saw super polished ads with professional models. Glossier, though, leaned into something way more relatable. They built their brand around community first, then created products that fit what that community wanted.

Their Instagram feed feels less like an advertisement and more like you’re just following a friend. They share a lot of user-generated content, which is a smart move. It’s like social proof in action – seeing real people use and love their products makes others want to try them too. Plus, they’re not afraid to use memes and repost customer messages, which makes the brand feel really human and approachable.

Here’s what makes their approach stand out:

• Community-Driven: They started with a community and built products for them, not the other way around.
• User-Generated Content (UGC): Regularly featuring customer photos and videos builds trust and makes followers feel seen.
• Authentic Voice: Their content is down-to-earth, often incorporating humor and relatable moments.
• Visually Appealing Products: Their packaging is designed to be shareable, fitting perfectly with the aesthetic of platforms like Instagram.

Glossier understood that in the beauty world, authenticity and seeing products in real-life contexts are more persuasive than heavily edited campaigns. They made their customers their biggest advocates.

5. Target

Target really knows how to connect with people online, and it’s not just about selling stuff. They’ve gotten good at making their social media feel like a natural part of people’s feeds, rather than just another ad. Think about how they use user-generated content; it makes their brand feel more real and relatable. They also do a solid job of jumping on trends and creating content that fits right into what’s popular on platforms like TikTok and Instagram.

One thing that stands out is their ability to create campaigns that feel inclusive and fun. They often highlight everyday people and relatable moments, which helps build a strong community around the brand. It’s not always about the big, flashy product launches, but more about showing how Target fits into people’s lives.

Target’s social media strategy is a masterclass in blending product promotion with genuine community building. They understand that authenticity and relatability are key to capturing attention in a crowded digital space.

Their approach often involves:

• Leveraging User-Generated Content: Encouraging customers to share their Target hauls and experiences, which acts as powerful social proof.
• Trendjacking: Creatively participating in viral challenges and using trending audio on platforms like TikTok to increase visibility.
• Community Engagement: Responding to comments, running polls, and asking questions to foster a two-way conversation with their audience.
• Seasonal and Event-Based Content: Aligning their social posts with holidays, back-to-school season, and other relevant events to stay timely and relevant.

This consistent effort to be present and engaging makes Target a brand that people actually want to follow and interact with online. It’s a smart way to build brand loyalty, and you can see how they’ve become a go-to resource for inspiration and deals, making them a top choice for social media marketing companies .

6. Burger King

Burger King has really leaned into a playful and often unexpected persona on social media. They aren’t afraid to be a little bit cheeky, which helps them stand out in the crowded fast-food space.

One of their more interesting recent campaigns involved using AI for their "Million Dollar Whopper" challenge. Basically, people could design their dream Whopper, and the company used AI to visualize these creations. It was a smart way to get people involved and talking.

• Engaging with AI: Using technology to let customers co-create products.
• Humor and Wit: Their posts often have a sarcastic or funny edge.
• Platform Variety: They maintain a presence across X, Instagram, and TikTok, tailoring content for each.

Burger King understands that social media isn’t just about showing off your menu; it’s about building a personality and interacting with your audience in a way that feels genuine, even if it’s a bit wild sometimes.

7. Buffer

Buffer really knows how to keep things interesting on social media. They don’t just stick to one type of post; their Instagram feed is a mix of helpful tips, how-to videos, and even funny short clips that feel like they belong on TikTok. It’s a smart way to connect with different people who use their software.

This approach means they put in more work than just using templates, but the payoff is a more engaged audience. They often create these carousel posts that share useful information, and the cool thing is, they can easily turn those into Instagram Stories. It’s a neat trick for getting more mileage out of their content.

• Variety is key: Mixing educational content with humor keeps followers hooked.
• Repurposing content: Turning carousel posts into Stories saves time and reaches more people.
• Community focus: Their content often feels like a conversation, not just a broadcast.

Buffer understands that social media isn’t just about selling; it’s about providing value and building a connection. Their diverse content strategy shows they’re thinking about what their audience actually wants to see, not just what they want to push.

8. Netflix

Netflix really knows how to work the internet, especially when it comes to memes. They’ve gotten super good at taking screenshots from their own shows and movies and turning them into relatable memes that get shared everywhere. It’s a smart move because it keeps people laughing and, at the same time, reminds them of all the great stuff they can watch on Netflix. They don’t just grab any popular meme; they make sure it ties back to their own content, which is a neat way to stay on-brand.

Their strategy isn’t just about making people laugh, though. It’s also about building a community and making their platform feel more accessible. By using humor that’s specific to their library, they create an inside joke with their audience. This approach has a few key benefits:

• Increased Engagement: Memes are highly shareable, leading to more likes, comments, and shares.
• Brand Recall: Associating their content with popular memes helps viewers remember shows and movies.
• Audience Connection: Using internet culture shows that Netflix understands and is part of the online conversation.

It’s a clever way to market entertainment by tapping into the current digital culture, making their brand feel more human and less like a faceless corporation. They’re not just selling subscriptions; they’re selling a shared cultural experience.

While many brands jump on the meme bandwagon, Netflix’s success comes from sticking to their own universe. It’s a reminder that even when you’re using trending formats, staying true to your brand’s core identity is what makes the content truly effective.

9. Dunkin’

Dunkin’ has really mastered the art of staying relevant, especially with a younger crowd, by being super active and playful on social media. They don’t just post pictures of donuts; they jump into current trends and use humor that feels genuine, not forced. Think about their engagement with memes or their witty replies to followers – it makes the brand feel like a friend, not just a coffee shop.

Their strategy often involves tapping into pop culture and relatable everyday moments. This approach helps them connect on a personal level, making people feel like Dunkin’ is part of their daily lives. It’s not just about selling coffee and donuts; it’s about being part of the conversation.

Here’s a look at what makes their social media stand out:

• Relatable Humor: They aren’t afraid to be a little silly and use internet humor that their audience gets. This makes their content shareable and memorable.
• Trendjacking: When a new meme or trend pops up, Dunkin’ is often quick to put their own spin on it, showing they’re in tune with what’s happening online.
• Community Engagement: They actively respond to comments and mentions, creating a two-way street of interaction that builds loyalty.
• Product Focus, But Fun: While they do show off their products, it’s usually done in a creative or funny way, like showing off seasonal drinks with a playful twist.

They understand that social media isn’t just a billboard; it’s a place to build relationships. By being authentic and participating in online culture, Dunkin’ keeps its brand top-of-mind and builds a strong community around its products.

10. Häagen-Dazs

Häagen-Dazs really knows how to make ice cream feel like a treat, not just a dessert. They’ve figured out how to use social media to make people feel that same sense of indulgence and quality.

One thing they do well is partner with different kinds of people to show off their ice cream. Think actors, athletes, even regular folks who just love their flavors. These partnerships often show up on platforms like TikTok, and it makes the brand feel more relatable and fun. It’s not just about the ice cream itself, but the good times you can have with it.

They’re great at making their content feel authentic, like you’re seeing real people enjoy their products. It’s a smart way to build trust and make you want to grab a pint.

Community building is a big part of their approach. They encourage people to share their own Häagen-Dazs moments, which helps create a buzz around the brand. It’s like they’re saying, “We make great ice cream, but you make the experience even better.”

They understand that people want to connect with brands on a personal level. By featuring diverse voices and encouraging user-generated content, Häagen-Dazs creates a feeling of shared enjoyment. It’s less about a hard sell and more about inviting people into a delicious experience.

11. National Geographic

National Geographic has built a massive following, and it’s not just because they have amazing photos, though they certainly do. Their social media, especially on Instagram, really nails the mission of inspiring exploration. They share stunning user-generated content from travelers and photographers all over the globe, alongside incredible wildlife footage. It’s like having a window into the world, right in your feed.

But they don’t shy away from important stuff either. You’ll see posts about climate change and scientific research, mirroring the depth of their magazine. This balance between awe-inspiring visuals and serious topics is key. They understand their audience wants both beauty and substance.

What can we learn from them? Consistency in showcasing your brand’s core values is super important. Whether it’s adventure or environmentalism, stick to what you stand for. Also, don’t underestimate the power of user-generated content; it builds a real connection. They’re great at making sure their content feels authentic, which is a big deal these days. It’s a smart way to build brand recognition and keep people interested, even if they aren’t subscribers. They really know how to make their content pop, even with so much visual stuff out there. It’s a masterclass in keeping a brand relevant and exciting. Check out their approach to visual storytelling .

12. Wendy’s

When you think of Wendy’s on social media, one word probably comes to mind: savage . They’ve built a massive following, especially on Twitter, by being hilariously blunt and engaging directly with fans and even other brands. It’s a bold strategy, and honestly, it works. They’ve managed to stand out in the crowded fast-food space by not taking themselves too seriously.

What makes their approach so effective?

• Authenticity: They sound like a real person, not a corporate marketing department. This makes their jokes and comebacks feel genuine.
• Humor: Wendy’s isn’t afraid to be a little cheeky, roasting competitors and playfully teasing customers. It’s entertaining and keeps people coming back for more.
• Engagement: They actively reply to comments and participate in conversations, making their followers feel seen and heard.

Wendy’s shows that you don’t need to be the biggest player in your industry to win on social media. Sometimes, a sharp wit and a consistent voice are all you need to capture attention and build a loyal community.

Their success on platforms like Twitter, where they have millions of followers, is a testament to the power of a distinct brand voice. It’s a masterclass in how to use humor and personality to connect with an audience, proving that even a fast-food chain can become a social media sensation.

13. Barbie

Barbie, the iconic doll, has really leaned into social media to connect with a new generation while also tapping into the nostalgia of older fans. They’ve done a great job of staying relevant by not just showing off their products, but by creating a whole vibe around the brand. Think about their collaborations – they’ve partnered with artists and even done things like create a life-sized Polly Pocket house through Airbnb. That’s a smart move, especially since a lot of Millennials grew up with Polly Pocket and are now looking for those nostalgic experiences.

Barbie’s social media strategy often focuses on:

• Empowerment and Inspiration: Showing Barbie as a figure who can do anything, encouraging girls (and adults!) to pursue their dreams.
• Nostalgia Marketing: Releasing content that reminds people of their childhoods, like celebrating anniversaries of classic toys.
• Community Building: Encouraging user-generated content and interactions, making fans feel like part of the Barbie world.
• Trendjacking: Participating in current social media trends in a way that feels authentic to the brand.

They understand that social media isn’t just about selling toys; it’s about building a brand story that people connect with on an emotional level. It’s pretty cool how they manage to keep a brand that’s been around for decades feeling fresh and exciting.

14. Shopify

Shopify really knows how to use social media to teach people stuff, especially on Instagram. They’re great at using that carousel feature to make these step-by-step guides that tackle common problems people have when they want to start a business. It’s a smart way to show how Shopify can be the answer to those challenges.

They often point people to more detailed information on their website, which is a good move for getting more traffic and, you know, potential customers. It’s all about providing helpful content that naturally leads back to their platform.

• Educational Carousels: Break down complex topics into digestible, multi-slide posts.
• Problem/Solution Framing: Position Shopify as the go-to solution for aspiring entrepreneurs.
• Driving Website Traffic: Consistently guide users to their site for deeper engagement.

It’s not just about posting pretty pictures; it’s about offering real value and making it easy for people to find the next step they need to take. This approach builds trust and shows they understand their audience’s journey.

This strategy is a solid way for any e-commerce platform to connect with its audience and demonstrate its utility. You can see how they focus on educating their followers, which is a big part of building a community around their brand .

15. Superside

Superside really gets how to help big companies with their social media. They focus on making campaigns that look good and actually get results, which is pretty important when you’re trying to scale up. They helped Imperfect Foods save a ton of money, like over $250,000, just by speeding up how fast they could make their ad stuff. That’s a huge deal.

They offer creative services on a subscription basis, which seems like a smart way to handle ongoing needs. You can start with a certain amount and then add more as you go. They use data and even AI to make sure the ads are working as well as they can. It’s all about making sure your brand looks consistent everywhere and that you’re not missing out on chances to connect with people.

They’re all about making social media marketing easier for large businesses, especially when it comes to creating a lot of content quickly and making sure it fits different places and languages. It’s like having an extra design team that’s always ready to go.

Think about their work with Shopify, where they created thousands of assets in multiple languages for a single campaign. That kind of output is tough for any in-house team to manage. Superside also helped Oyster turn static content into animations, cutting down production time significantly. It shows they can adapt to different needs and deliver quality work fast. If you’re looking for fresh marketing ideas for 2025, checking out how Superside works with brands could give you some good inspiration. They really know how to make social media campaigns that get noticed and bring in business.

Wrapping Up: Your Social Media Journey Starts Now

So, we’ve looked at a bunch of companies doing cool things on social media. It’s clear that being good at this stuff isn’t just about posting pretty pictures or funny jokes. It’s about knowing who you’re talking to and what you want to achieve. Whether it’s making people laugh like Wendy’s, showing off amazing adventures like GoPro, or building a community like Glossier, there’s a lot to learn. Remember, you don’t need a massive budget to make an impact. Focus on being real, talking with your audience, and maybe trying out some video or user-shared content. The social media world changes fast, but these brands show that staying true to your message and connecting with people is always a winning strategy. Hopefully, this gives you some solid ideas to get your own brand noticed in 2025 and beyond.

Frequently Asked Questions

Why is social media marketing so important for businesses today?

Social media is important because most people expect businesses to be on it. About 90% of people buy from brands they follow online. It’s a great way to connect with customers and build your brand.

What are some common tactics used by successful brands on social media?

Great social media strategies often involve using different platforms like Instagram, TikTok, and X (formerly Twitter). Brands use visually appealing content, funny posts, and interact with their followers to stand out.

Is user-generated content a good strategy for social media?

Yes, user-generated content, which means sharing posts from your customers or employees, is a very effective way to build trust. Brands like GoPro use this a lot by encouraging fans to share their adventures.

Should brands use video content on social media?

Video content, especially short videos like Reels and TikToks, gets a lot of attention. Even if you don’t make videos yourself, animated graphics can also work well to grab people’s interest.

What makes a brand’s social media content appealing to followers?

Brands should aim to be genuine and offer something valuable to their followers. This could be funny content, helpful tips, or behind-the-scenes looks. Being authentic helps people connect with your brand on a deeper level.

What are the most important things to remember when creating a social media strategy?

It’s important to have clear goals, like making people laugh or building a strong company image. Engaging with your audience by responding to comments and asking for their opinions is also key to keeping your social media active.