I stay updated on Instagram and TikTok trends by actively engaging with the platforms daily, not just posting but also observing what’s gaining traction. I pay close attention to trending sounds, formats, hashtags, and editing styles on my For You and Explore pages, and I save ideas that align with my personal brand and the audiences I want to reach. I also follow a mix of creators, brands, and social media strategists to see how trends are being adapted across different niches, especially fitness, sports, and lifestyle content. Engaging with comments, reading captions, and watching how audiences respond helps me understand why certain trends work. On top of that, I experiment with trends early and analyze performance so I can adjust quickly and stay relevant.

What attracts me to influencer and social media marketing is the ability to connect with people in a genuine and creative way. It blends storytelling, community, and strategy, allowing brands to feel more human and relatable rather than just promotional. I enjoy how social media gives individuals the power to influence conversations, trends, and purchasing decisions through authenticity and trust. As someone studying sports communications, I’m drawn to how influencer marketing builds relationships and brand identity through real experiences and consistent engagement. It also allows for creativity—whether through short-form videos, visuals, or interactive content—while providing measurable impact through audience response and engagement. Overall, influencer and social media marketing excites me because it’s dynamic, constantly evolving, and centered on meaningful connections between brands and people.

I would engage an audience to try Barebells by making the experience feel authentic, interactive, and relatable rather than like a traditional ad. I’d start by sharing Barebells as part of my real routine—whether that’s grabbing a bar before class, after a workout, or on game days—so people see how easily it fits into an active lifestyle. I’d use storytelling and visuals on social media to highlight what makes Barebells different: great taste, high protein, and no added sugar. Short-form content like TikToks and Instagram Reels, such as taste tests, protein bar rankings, or “what I eat in a busy day,” help spark curiosity and make people want to try it for themselves. To boost engagement, I’d involve the audience directly through polls, Q&As, giveaways, and challenges like “try Barebells for a week” or a favorite flavor vote. On campus or at events, I’d hand out samples and create conversations around fitness, balance, and wellness, especially within diverse and athletic communities.