As we step into 2025, marketers are embracing a dynamic marketing approach to maximise their budgets and stay ahead in a rapidly evolving landscape. Based on insights from over 11,000 marketers surveyed, it’s clear that the strategies shaping marketing investments this year are as diverse as they are forward-thinking.
Let’s dive into how marketers are spending their money and why these changes are important for businesses everywhere.
The Shift In Marketing Budgets
Marketers are rethinking their marketing approach by focusing on channels that promise the best ROI (return on investment) while adapting to new trends. With 44% increasing their SEO (search engine optimisation) budgets, it’s clear that search optimisation remains a top priority. Despite fears of algorithm changes and AI disruption, SEO’s consistent performance makes it indispensable.
Meanwhile, 63% of marketers are channelling more funds into content creation, recognising the need for diverse formats and the unique power of human-crafted content over AI-generated alternatives.
The Rise Of AI In Marketing
A standout trend in the 2025 marketing approach is the surge in investments in AI-driven SEO. A staggering 97% of marketers plan to spend more on platforms like ChatGPT and SearchGPT. These tools, though relatively new, are seen as vital for staying relevant in an AI-powered search landscape.
This enthusiasm for AI doesn’t end with SEO. Many marketers are leveraging AI tools to streamline email marketing, content creation, and customer interaction, showcasing the versatility of this technology in modern strategies.
Social Media’s Mixed Bag
Social media remains a cornerstone of many marketing plans, but not without challenges. While 25% of marketers are upping their organic social budgets, citing brand awareness and customer connection as key benefits, others are pulling back. Declining reach on platforms like Facebook and Instagram has driven some to experiment with influencer marketing or newer networks like TikTok and X (formerly Twitter).
Paid social ads tell a similar story. Budgets are shifting toward platforms that balance affordability and reach, with X emerging as a surprising leader due to lower costs and perceived credibility gains.
The Return Of Community Building
An unexpected yet impactful marketing approach gaining traction is community building. In 2025, 81% of marketers plan to increase spending in this area. From in-person events to fostering online forums, the goal is clear: create spaces where customers feel connected and valued.
This trend reflects a broader desire to humanise marketing in an era where AI often dominates the conversation. For marketers, it’s a reminder that relationships are still at the heart of business success.
A Forward-Looking Marketing Approach
2025 is shaping up to be a year of bold decisions and creative strategies. Marketers are blending tried-and-true tactics like SEO and content marketing with emerging tools like AI and innovative community-building efforts.
If you’re ready to refine your own marketing approach this year, why not partner with experts who live and breathe these trends? At Truly, we specialise in helping brands navigate the shifting digital landscape with precision and flair.
Let’s make 2025 the year your marketing truly stands out! Reach out to us today via our online form or give us a call on 01926 814 547 to learn more.
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