The Challenges of Socials in 2025

1. Constant Algorithm Changes: Staying visible is harder than ever with frequent updates to social media algorithms. Platforms are constantly tweaking how content is shown, making it a challenge to maintain consistent engagement and reach.
   
   
2. Increased Competition: With more businesses doubling down on social media marketing and throwing big dollars at platforms, it’s becoming harder for smaller brands to stand out. Larger companies with bigger budgets often dominate the spotlight, leaving smaller players struggling to gain traction.
   
   
3. Zero-Click Searches: Just like zero-click searches on Google, social platforms now prioritize keeping users on their apps. Features like in-app answers, previews, and product tags often lead to users engaging with the platform itself rather than your content, making it tough to drive meaningful traffic or conversions.

What’s All the  Drama About TikTok? Here's the DIRT:

In short, TikTok is facing pressure to sell its U.S. operations over concerns about national security. But the soap opera doesn’t end there. Here’s the dirt:

• TikTok’s estimated value is $20 billion, yet some are trying to scrub that down with a forced sale at a discount.
  
  
• Instagram and Facebook (Meta) have been losing their sparkle as TikTok’s content trends dominate the social sphere. (Fun fact: A huge chunk of Instagram’s Reels content is just reposted TikToks!)
  
  
• Some folks argue that if TikTok’s a security threat, why aren’t similar concerns bubbling up about other apps like Temu?
  
  
• Oh, and there’s chatter about how this could set a slippery precedent for freedom of speech and how tech companies operate.
  
  
• And then the unexpected flocking of TikTok users to RedNote... because users say if their data is going to be compromised anyway, they want it to be their choice.

Although it's said to be rumors of a possible TikTok shutdown or blackout, we've had the government and CEO of TikTok confirm it will shut down on January 19th (Sunday). The news is reporting that creators and small businesses are stuck wondering, "What’s next?" but I've found that most of us have already developed a plan, archived our accounts, and adjusted our goals. With younger generations increasingly boycotting Facebook and Instagram, there’s a growing push to respect your audience by meeting them where they are—in the real world. Consider redirecting your focus to in-person engagement, local community events, and loyalty programs to foster genuine connections.

Rethink How You Connect with Customers

If you’ve been using TikTok to share engaging content, promote your wash packages, or build your carwash’s brand, it’s time to face the reality: TikTok is no longer a reliable platform. Its looming shutdown has left businesses and creators scrambling for alternatives.

Many creators are optimizing their Instagram and YouTube accounts, while some are experimenting with newer platforms like Red Note. However, this shift offers a unique opportunity to rethink how you connect with your customers—beyond social media. With younger generations increasingly boycotting Facebook and Instagram, there’s a growing push to respect your audience by meeting them where they are—in the real world. Consider redirecting your focus to in-person engagement, local community events, and loyalty programs to foster genuine connections.

Social media strategies still have their place, but this shakeup is a reminder to diversify your approach. Take this chance to “rinse and reset” your marketing efforts to ensure your business continues to shine, both online and offline.



Exploring Alternative Marketing Strategies & Using Analytics

Here’s How Carwash Owners Can Stay Ahead of the Game

1. Polish Up Your Online Presence

When social media bubbles burst, your website and Google Maps profile are your bread and butter.A great website is essential for any carwash looking to grow and thrive in today’s digital-first world. It’s often the first impression customers have of your business, so a well-designed, user-friendly website helps build trust and professionalism. Customers expect convenience, and features like online booking, membership sign-ups, and detailed service information make it easier for them to choose your carwash over competitors. A strong website optimized for local SEO boosts your visibility when people search for “carwash near me,” driving more traffic to your location. It’s also the perfect platform to showcase your services, highlight unique features, and support marketing campaigns with promotions or membership drives. Additionally, a website helps build customer loyalty by offering programs and exclusive deals while keeping your business competitive in the market. In today’s world, if you’re not online, you’re missing out on valuable opportunities to connect with customers and grow your business. If you are online and your website is kind of terrible, the same thing applied - you're missing our on valuable opportunities.

• Google Maps TLC: Claim your business profile, keep hours updated, and encourage your customers to leave five-star reviews. They’re like little gold medals for your business!

• A Clean and Sleek Website: Make sure your site is fast, mobile-friendly, and loaded with useful info like wash packages, hours, and an FAQ for your customers.

2. Diversify Your Marketing Bucket

If TikTok disappears, don’t rely solely on Instagram and Facebook to keep customers in the loop.

• Email Blasts and SMS: Let your customers know about deals, events, and new services with direct communication.
• Free Community Advertising: Post on local apps like Nextdoor or partner with nearby businesses to cross-promote. It’s like a two-for-one wash deal for your marketing!

3. Save Your TikTok Treasures

Got a vault of TikTok videos? Don’t let that content go down the drain.

• Archive your videos and reuse them on other platforms or your website. A funny carwash clip or a satisfying power-wash video never goes out of style!

• Track your TikTok analytics now so you can replicate successful ideas on other platforms.

4. Scope Out New Platforms

The TikTok drama has given rise to new platforms like BlueSky and Red Note, which are quickly gaining traction. Start experimenting with these to see where your soapy storytelling can shine next.

5. Make a Splash in the Community

Sometimes, the best way to attract customers is the old-fashioned way: getting out there and making connections. With younger generations increasingly boycotting Facebook and Instagram, there’s a growing push to respect your audience by meeting them where they are—in the real world. Consider redirecting your focus to in-person engagement, local community events, and loyalty programs to foster genuine connections.

• Host a local event, like a charity carwash or a customer appreciation day.

• Partner with schools, sports teams, or other local organizations to sponsor events. Every “thank you” banner is like a billboard for your wash.

Use dynamic posters and designs on your wash site to stay fresh in your customer's minds.

What If TikTok Shuts Down?

I don't know why I keep saying "what if" it's absolutely going to happen unless to government intervenes in a super unethical way. The TikTok CEO has said that if forced into a corner, they will just pull the plug rather than sell the app. This will leave creators and businesses—like yours—scrambling to adjust. But don’t worry, the carwash industry is all about adaptability. After all, we’ve weathered everything from rainy seasons, giganto snow storms, ice caves, and unexpected wash repairs.

When/If TikTok does go offline, here’s how you can keep your customers coming:

• Focus on in-person loyalty programs like membership discounts or punch cards.

• Lean into your local SEO (Google and Bing searches) to make sure you’re the first wash they see online.

• Keep those email and SMS campaigns sudsy with exclusive offers and fun updates.

Keep Your Marketing Machine Well-Oiled

As carwash pros, we know that staying shiny and efficient means adapting to whatever comes our way. By polishing up your website, exploring new platforms, and connecting with your community, you’ll be ready to weather any social media storm—and come out sparkling on the other side.

Remember, every change is just another chance to get creative and think outside the wash bay. So keep scrubbing, shining, and sharing your story—because clean cars and happy customers will never go out of style.

Got any questions or ideas for staying ahead of the social media spin cycle? Drop them in the comments below! Let’s keep the conversation rolling. 🚗✨