Social media can be nothing short of frustrating when you're a busy business owner who has too much on their plate. But here's the good news: the fundamentals of what works haven't changed. They've just gotten more refined. In this blog, we're diving into the best social media practices for business owners right now in 2026.

Speak Like a Human (Still the Most Important Rule)

You can leave behind all that sales talk. What you need is to talk like yourself. Both authentically and conversationally.

The best way to do that? Picture clearly that person on the other side of the screen who is taking in your content. Get crystal clear on who that person is through your brand strategy and a well-defined target audience.

In 2026, audiences are savvier than ever. They can spot inauthenticity instantly and will scroll right past content that feels robotic or overly polished. Your followers will appreciate and respond to you being your true self.

It's time to lean into relatable, real, and human.

Make Community Your Priority

Social media is social for a reason. And in 2026, the algorithm rewards genuine engagement more than ever.

We often forget this because there are so many strategies, tips, and "experts" telling us what to post and when. But here's the truth: no matter how great your strategy is, you have to engage with your community.

This looks like:

Commenting meaningfully on posts (not just emojis)
Interacting with stories and DMs
Asking genuine questions
Following and supporting people and businesses you're interested in

You have to give to get. The brands winning on social media in 2026 are the ones building real relationships, not just broadcasting content.

Ask Your Audience What They Want

Have you ever wondered what your community actually wants from you or your content? Have you ever just… asked them?

In 2026, asking is still one of the most powerful (and free!) ways to understand what your audience needs and what questions they have. Use polls, question stickers, DMs, and even simple posts asking "What do you want to learn about?"

Then, take what your audience says and turn it into endless pieces of content. This ensures you're not just guessing what to post, you're creating exactly what your audience is craving.

Always Be Listening (And Analyzing)

Actively listening means paying attention to what your audience says and making changes to your content based on their feedback and your data.

In 2026, the platforms are giving us more insights than ever. Use them! I recommend analyzing your metrics on a monthly basis to see:

What content is resonating
Where there are gaps you can fill
What questions your audience is already asking

Pro tip: Look beyond just likes and follows. In 2026, engagement rate, saves, shares, and watch time matter more than vanity metrics. These signals tell you what content is truly valuable to your audience.

Video Is Non-Negotiable in 2026

If you're still relying mostly on static posts, it's time to shift. Video content, whether short-form reels, talking head videos, or B-roll, continues to dominate every platform. The algorithm prioritizes it, and audiences prefer it.

You don't need fancy equipment. Just your phone and a message that matters.

Ready to Make 2026 Your Best Year on Social Media?

Use these principles to better your social media efforts and make what you're currently doing go further.

And if you have questions on getting started or want to develop a clear, strategic plan for your social media in 2026, that's exactly what my Social Media Strategy in a Day Session is for.

Let's make this your year to finally feel confident and intentional with your social media.

Book a Call