A few years ago, paid ads online were a big deal. Brands could easily reach people through social media and websites. But in 2025, professionals are making adjustments and looking at marketing beyond digital.
More and more people are ignoring ads, and new rules about online privacy are making it harder to track users. On top of that, running digital ads is getting more expensive. According to Vogue Business, even online brands are starting to spend less on ads and more on building real relationships with customers.
So now, instead of chasing clicks, smart brands are finding new ways to connect by being real, honest, and involved in their communities.
First-Party Data: Earning Trust the Right Way
Because of new privacy rules, brands can’t rely on tracking people through cookies like they used to. That’s where first-party data comes in.
First-party data is the info people share with a brand directly, like signing up for a newsletter or filling out a form. It’s safe, trusted, and helpful. It also helps brands send better, more personal messages without crossing privacy lines.
A recent Conric PR & Marketing article says brands focus more on loyalty programs and the customer data they collect. This makes customers feel respected and more likely to stick around.
Real-Life Events Are Making a Comeback
After years of everything being online, people are craving real-world experiences again. That’s why more brands are hosting local events like pop-up shops, fitness meetups, or community givebacks.
These events give people a reason to show up, have fun, and see what a brand is about. They also allow companies to show their values, not just talk about them.
Letting Your Fans Tell the Story
People trust other people more than they trust ads. That’s why brands share content made by real customers, like reviews, photos, and videos.
When a brand reposts a customer’s story or runs a fun hashtag challenge, it builds a sense of community. It tells customers, “You matter. You’re part of our story.”
This kind of content doesn’t just look good—it feels real. And that makes people want to support a brand over the long run.
Being Real Is the New Way to Grow
Customers today can tell when something feels fake. They want brands to be honest, human, and helpful. If a brand only shows up to sell something, people move on.
At Glint Advertising, we help brands connect in ways that feel real. We use smart design, great stories, and creative ideas to help our clients stand out in a world that’s tired of fake and marketing beyond digital.
Want to Learn More?
The way people connect with brands is changing fast, and we’re here to help you keep up. Visit our blog page to read more blogs on how culture is changing marketing and how your brand can lead the way.
Let’s create something real—together.
