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How to Navigate a Cluttered Social Media Landscape

5

min read

Apr 17, 2025

Written by:

Jessie Welsh

Overhead view of female's hand holding social network app symbol blocks on lawn
Overhead view of female's hand holding social network app symbol blocks on lawn

Remember when social media was just Facebook and maybe Twitter? Those simpler days are long gone. Now we're juggling more platforms than most of us can keep track of. Each has its own algorithm changes, content requirements, and audiences.

Most brands are struggling to keep up. As a result, they end up chasing every trend.

If you’re a content creator, you need to know how to find clarity in such a cluttered social media landscape. Here are some ways you can cut through the clutter and create content that actually lands.

Pick Your Battles Wisely

Viral content jigsaw puzzle with networking icons on painted wall

Designed by Freepik

A lot of people think that it’s good to be everywhere. Here’s the first truth bomb: you don’t need to be on every platform.

It’s tempting, especially when you’re trying to scale. But spreading yourself too thin across five platforms usually leads to…mediocrity across five platforms.

The biggest mistake we see professionals making is attempting to maintain a presence on every platform. Instead, identify where your target audience actually spends their time.

If you're targeting corporate executives, you probably don't need to worry about what's trending on TikTok. If your ideal audience is Gen Z folks, LinkedIn might not be your priority.

Here’s what you do instead:

  • Choose 2-3 platforms max that align with your goals and audience behavior.

  • Consider your content strengths. Are you good at making short clips? TikTok or Reels. Better with thought leadership? LinkedIn or Threads.

  • Ask your audience which platform they mostly use. You’d be surprised by what they tell you.

Understand How Social Media Algorithms Work

Facebook, X, TikTok, and more have their own algorithms. These social media algorithms aren’t random. Powered by machine learning, they help determine what content appears in a user’s feed and in what order.

Some of the ranking signals algorithms use are engagement, relevance, timeliness, content type, and user preferences. These signals work together to create personalized feeds.

The problem is that algorithms evolve. Constantly. Platforms regularly fine-tune their systems based on user behavior and feedback. What works today might flop tomorrow.

The key isn't to fight algorithm changes, but to build an approach that can withstand them. Instead of playing catch-up, create a content strategy that thrives regardless of algorithm changes.

Focus on creating high-retention content and publishing it regularly. Algorithms also reward engagement signals. Meaningful comments carry more weight than 20 likes.

Choose Pillars for Your Content Strategy

Instead of random content, you need a core content framework that anchors your messaging. Churning out social posts just to “stay active” is the content equivalent of filler episodes. Your audience can tell when you’re just filling space.

Here’s a structure that works:

  • Pillar 1: Value – tips, hacks, guides, or industry insights

  • Pillar 2: Personality – memes, opinions, and behind-the-scenes

  • Pillar 3: Proof – testimonials, case studies, and results

  • Pillar 4: Promotion – launches and offers

Rotate through these, but don’t treat them like a checklist. You can mix two or three pillars depending on your preference.

Think Human First, Aesthetic Second

Medium shot photographer taking fruit photos

Designed by Freepik

Hot take: Your Instagram grid doesn’t need to look like a museum exhibit. What matters more? Connection over curation.

People connect with people. They want to know who’s behind the screen. Even if you’re managing a brand, personality shines through in tone, captions, and even comments. That’s what builds an actual connection.

Try these tips:

  • Use “you” language and speak directly to your audience

  • Ask casual, open-ended questions at the end of posts

  • Share flops or behind-the-scenes bloopers

A polished brand with personality beats one that’s picture-perfect but emotionally flat. You can still maintain a recognizable brand identity without making your feed a design project.

To do this, use consistent filters, a core color scheme, or 1-2 repeating visual formats. But don’t let that drown out your voice and personality.

Don’t Hop on All Trends

When we talk about trends, we immediately think of catchy audio clips, template carousels, or viral challenges.

Trends can absolutely boost visibility and breathe fresh energy into your content… but they’re not a strategy. Sure, you can use them, but don’t build your content strategy solely around them.

So, how do you make trends work for you?

  • Only jump on trends that align with your voice or niche

  • Put your own spin on it, maybe an unexpected twist or punchline

  • Use trends to redirect attention to your core message

  • Mix trend posts with evergreen content

If a trend doesn’t enhance your brand story or make sense to your audience, skip it. You can use them to amplify, not define, your brand presence.

Cut Through the Chaos With Loopify

Here’s a comforting truth: you don’t have to keep up with everything. You just have to be clear, consistent, and create content that builds a connection.

You don’t need to be everywhere, do everything, or jump on every trend to succeed.

Before posting, ask yourself: “Does this help someone feel seen, learn something new, or connect a little deeper?”

If yes, hit publish. Here’s where tools like Loopify come in.

Loopify helps you create with purpose, not pressure. From scheduling posts across platforms to tracking performance, it keeps your workflow clean and organized. With Loopify, you can:

✅ Plan your content calendar with clarity

✅ Organize creative ideas, captions, and visuals in one place

✅ Track what’s working (and what’s just noise)

✅ Stay consistent without burning out

Every day, we’re refining Loopify alongside the creators, startups, and small teams who believed in us from day one. We’re not chasing trends, we’re focused on helping you cut through disarray with simplicity, and maybe even a dash of style.

Try Loopify today!

Onyx Labs, LLC © 2025

Onyx Labs, LLC © 2025