A new report titled “State of Social Media Marketing 2026” from Emplifi shows how marketers plan to use AI tools, influencers, and new content trends in the coming year.
The study includes insights from more than 500 marketing professionals across industries.
While AI adoption is high, the report shows that true efficiency gains remain limited. At the same time, influencer marketing and short-form video will continue to dominate brand strategies in 2026.
AI Adoption Grows, But Results Are Mixed
Most marketers now use AI in daily tasks, but many say the impact is moderate.
Social Media Marketing Plans: Key Findings
- 82% of marketers use AI tools for daily work.
- Top uses:
- Analytics
- Content creation
- Ad targeting
- Analytics
- Only 35% see strong productivity gains.
- Many say AI tools help but don’t replace human thinking.
- Knowledge gaps and fixed habits limit results.
Marketers also believe AI tools work best as assistants, not full replacements. They help with pattern recognition and quick responses but struggle with deep creativity or decision-making.
Also read about: AI in Marketing 2025: Digital Marketing Evolves with CTV & Privacy
Influencers, Platforms, and Content Trends for 2026
Influencer marketing and short-form video continue to rise as brands shift budgets toward these formats.
Influencer and Platform Insights:
- 67% of marketers will increase influencer budgets in 2026.
- Main benefit: higher brand awareness.
- Short-form video makes influencers more valuable.
- Instagram remains the top platform, followed by LinkedIn.
- Reddit is gaining importance because AI tools often reference Reddit content.
- Marketers plan to spread resources across more platforms, using automation and AI scheduling to reduce workload.
Content and Goal Trends:
- Short-form video is the top content format.
- Engagement is the main performance goal.
- Lead generation ranks lower, but marketers believe engagement drives leads later.
The Social Media Marketing 2026 report shows a clear shift toward AI-assisted workflows, influencer-led promotion, and platform diversification.
While AI continues to grow, influencers and short-form video will shape how brands attract and engage audiences in the year ahead.
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