In the fast-paced world of digital marketing, keeping up with the latest trends and strategies is crucial. You're likely looking for influencers who can offer insights, inspiration, and a fresh perspective to help you and your team excel. Whether you're exploring new career opportunities or seeking mentorship, following the right thought leaders can make all the difference.
Digital marketing tools and software play a vital role in this journey. Discover how you can leverage these resources by tuning into insightful discussions on platforms like the Social Media Marketing Podcast.
Now, here’s my list of top digital marketing influencers you should follow for a successful 2025.
Best Digital Marketing Influencers in 2025
1. Goldie Chan
Goldie Chan is known for her expertise in personal branding and social media strategy. She has a strong B2B anGoldie Chan is known for her expertise in personal branding and social media strategy. She has a strong B2B and B2C social media marketing background. Goldie has earned accolades for her innovative content creation approach and ability to engage audiences across multiple platforms.
Goldie Chan deserves a spot on your list because of her unique ability to connect with audiences through authentic storytelling and her strategic insights into branding. Her work as a digital marketing influencer is marked by a deep understanding of how to leverage social media for brand growth and engagement.
2. Dharmesh Shah
Dharmesh Shah is the co-founder and Chief Technology Officer of HubSpot, a leading CRM platform company. Before HubSpot, he founded Pyramid Digital Solutions, which was acquired by SunGard Data Systems in 2005. Shah holds a B.S. in Computer Science from the University of Alabama At Birmingham and an M.S. from the Massachusetts Institute of Technology.
You should consider following Dharmesh Shah because he is not only a successful entrepreneur but also a thought leader in digital marketing. His work at HubSpot has revolutionized how small businesses approach marketing, emphasizing inbound strategies. His insights and practical approach to marketing technology make him a valuable influencer in the industry.
3. Oli Gardner
Oli Gardner is a digital marketing expert known for his work in landing page optimization, A/B testing, and lead generation. He has contributed significantly to the industry by organizing the first International Conversion Rate Optimization Day and co-hosting the web series “Page Fights.” Gardner’s expertise in website optimization, brand awareness strategies, and successful collaborations has made him a recognized figure in digital marketing.
If you’re exploring digital marketing influencers to follow, Oli Gardner stands out due to his practical insights and innovative approaches to user engagement. His ability to simplify complex marketing strategies makes him a valuable resource for marketing managers seeking effective techniques.
4. Kim Garst
Kim Garst is a renowned digital marketing strategist and social media influencer with over 25 years of experience in the industry. She specializes in helping businesses leverage social media to increase their online presence and drive sales. Garst is also a bestselling author and has been recognized as one of the top marketing influencers on platforms like Forbes.
Kim Garst stands out among digital marketing influencers for her practical approach and authentic connection with audiences. Her philosophy centers on building genuine relationships and providing value, making her a valuable resource for marketing managers, content creators, and beginners seeking to improve their rankings.
5. Avinash Kaushik
Avinash Kaushik is the global Chief Strategy Officer at Human Made Machine, a marketing insights platform . He is renowned for his work as the Digital Marketing Evangelist at Google and co-founded Market Motive Inc. Kaushik is also the author of the influential blog, Occam’s Razor, and has written several books on web analytics, making significant contributions to digital marketing and analytics over his career.
Avinash Kaushik stands out in the digital marketing world due to his pragmatic approach to web analytics and data-driven marketing strategies. If you are a marketing manager, you may appreciate his clear and insightful guidance on leveraging data for business growth. His unique perspective on the balance between technology and human analysis makes his work both insightful and actionable, providing you with valuable strategies to enhance your digital marketing efforts.
6. Brian Solis
Brian Solis is a renowned digital marketing influencer and author, known for his expertise in digital transformation and innovation. With over three decades of experience, he has been pivotal in shaping the way businesses approach customer experience and digital strategies. Solis is also a celebrated keynote speaker and has received numerous awards for his contributions to the field.
Brian Solis has earned a spot on my list because of his forward-thinking approach to digital marketing. As a marketing consultant, he stands out for his ability to blend technology with human insights, making him a unique voice in the industry. Whether you’re a blogger, business owner, or marketing professional, following Solis can provide valuable insights into the future of customer engagement and technology trends.
7. Erik Qualman
Erik Qualman is a prominent figure in the digital marketing world, recognized for his expertise as a motivational speaker and author. He has been involved in the industry for over two decades, specializing in digital leadership and social media strategies. Notably, he has authored several best-selling books, including “Socialnomics,” which highlights the power of social media in the modern age.
Erik Qualman stands out among digital marketing influencers for his ability to translate complex digital concepts into actionable insights. His engaging presentation style and forward-thinking approach make him a valuable resource for anyone looking to enhance their digital marketing strategies.
8. Brian Halligan
Brian Halligan is the co-founder and chairperson of HubSpot, a leading software platform for marketing, sales, and customer service. Under his leadership, HubSpot has developed a comprehensive suite of AI-powered tools that help businesses streamline operations and enhance customer engagement. Halligan’s vision has significantly contributed to HubSpot’s success, making it a preferred choice for startups and enterprises globally.
If you’re looking to connect with a digital marketing influencer who truly understands the power of integration and AI in business growth, Brian Halligan should be on your radar. His innovative approach to combining marketing, sales, and customer service tools into a single platform sets him apart in the industry. Halligan’s work with HubSpot exemplifies a commitment to helping businesses achieve tangible results, such as increased web traffic and improved lead acquisition.
9. Malini Agarwal
Malini Agarwal, also known as MissMalini, is an Indian digital influencer, TV host, entrepreneur, and author. She began her career as a radio jockey and later became the head of digital content for Channel [v] India. Malini is the founder and creative director of MissMalini Entertainment, a digital entertainment network known for its positive-only new media content.
Malini Agarwal earned a spot on this list because she’s a pioneer in the digital influencer space. Her unique approach of creating a positive-only media company sets her apart and makes her a valuable figure for any marketing manager seeking innovative content strategies. Her work reflects a philosophy of positivity and creativity, making her a standout digital influencer.
10. Kirsty Hulse
Kirsty Hulse stands out in the marketing influencer space for seamlessly blending deep digital marketing expertise with confidence coaching. Before becoming a sought-after keynote speaker and founder of Roar! Training, Hulse built her career in digital marketing, leading global SEO strategies for major brands and running her own successful marketing consultancy. She’s trained over 40,000 professionals, including teams at Amazon, LinkedIn, and Accenture, helping marketers build the confidence to communicate effectively, pitch with impact, and lead with clarity.
Kirsty Hulse has earned a spot on my list because of her engaging style and practical approach to confidence-building. Her workshops and keynote talks are described as “game changing” by participants, making her a standout influencer in the digital marketing space. Whether you’re in e-commerce, PPC, or looking to strengthen partnerships, Hulse’s resources and insights could be invaluable for boosting confidence and driving success.
11. Astrid Kramer
Astrid Kramer is an experienced digital marketing influencer specializing in search engine optimization (SEO). With over a decade in the industry, she has been instrumental in shaping SEO strategies for various high-profile clients. Her expertise extends across multiple sectors, making her a sought-after consultant in digital marketing.
Astrid Kramer stands out among digital marketing influencers due to her deep understanding of SEO and her innovative approach to tackling challenges. Her work focuses on delivering measurable results, which is crucial for anyone serious about enhancing their digital presence.
12. Karl Gilis
Karl Gilis is a prominent expert in conversion rate optimization (CRO), user research, and UX design, associated with AGConsult, a leading agency in Belgium and the Netherlands. With over 20 years of experience, Karl has been instrumental in enhancing numerous websites and apps through his expertise in user research and A/B testing. He is also known for his active role in speaking at international conferences and providing valuable insights into optimizing business performance.
Karl Gilis has earned a spot on the list of digital marketing influencers due to his commitment to user-centric design and his ability to drive conversion through meticulous research and testing. His philosophy of prioritizing user experience makes him a unique figure in the field, and his active engagement with the UX and CRO community showcases his dedication to sharing knowledge and fostering innovation.
13. John Hall
John Hall is a co-founder of Calendar.com, a leading scheduling and time management application. He has extensive expertise in content marketing and has co-founded Influence & Co., a company specializing in content marketing services. John is a recognized speaker and author, known for his work in helping businesses build trust and relationships with their audiences. His insights have been featured in major publications like Forbes and Inc.
John Hall’s influence in the digital marketing space is significant due to his innovative approach to content marketing. He emphasizes the importance of authenticity and relationship-building, which sets him apart from many others in the industry. His unique perspective on integrating genuine communication into marketing strategies makes him a standout influencer worth following.
14. Erik Huberman
Erik Huberman is the founder and CEO of Hawke Media, a marketing agency he established in 2014. He specializes in performance marketing and has collaborated with major clients like Red Bull and Verizon. Huberman is recognized for his expertise in integrating creativity with data analytics and addressing AI implementation challenges in marketing.
Erik Huberman earned a spot on our list because of his innovative approach to digital marketing, blending creativity with data-driven strategies. His work with high-profile clients and his insights into marketing trends make him a valuable resource for anyone in the marketing field. If you’re looking for a digital marketing influencer who understands the balance between creativity and analytics, Erik Huberman is worth following.
15. Chris Walker
Chris Walker is the Founder and Executive Chairman of Refine Labs, a digital marketing agency focused on demand generation for high-growth B2B companies. With a background in electrical and biomedical engineering, he has over a decade of experience in product management and development, particularly in the medical technology sector. Walker is also the CEO of Passetto, where he specializes in go-to-market strategies for scaling SaaS companies.
Chris Walker stands out among digital marketing influencers due to his innovative approach to demand generation and his ability to align leadership strategies for growth. His unique perspective on marketing ROI and revenue growth makes him a valuable resource for anyone looking to enhance their digital marketing efforts. If you’re seeking inspiration or guidance in the B2B space, Chris Walker’s insights and methodologies are truly worth exploring.
16. Ann Handley
Ann Handley is a leading figure in digital marketing and content creation, currently serving as the Chief Content Officer at MarketingProfs. She is recognized as the first person to hold this title and has co-founded two digital marketing startups. Handley is a bestselling author, known for her influential works, including “Everybody Writes.” As a keynote speaker, she shares her expertise globally, helping companies rethink their marketing strategies.
You should follow Ann Handley because her approach to digital marketing is both insightful and practical, making her a valuable resource for marketers aiming to refine their content strategies. Her work empowers marketers to enhance their storytelling skills and adapt to the evolving digital landscape. Ann’s unique perspective and engaging communication style make her stand out among digital marketing influencers.
17. Rand Fishkin
Rand Fishkin is a prominent figure in the digital marketing industry, best known for co-founding Moz, a leading SEO software company, where he served as CEO until 2014. With over two decades in the field, Rand has established himself as an expert in search engine optimization and content marketing. He is also the founder of SparkToro, a market research and audience intelligence tool, further showcasing his innovative approach to digital marketing.
Rand Fishkin stands out among digital marketing influencers for his candid and transparent approach to sharing industry insights. His willingness to challenge conventional wisdom and offer bold perspectives makes him a valuable resource for anyone looking to deepen their understanding of digital marketing.
18. Neil Patel
Neil Patel is a renowned digital marketing expert known for co-founding companies like Crazy Egg, Hello Bar, and KISSmetrics. He specializes in SEO, content marketing, and analytics, helping businesses grow their online presence. With years of experience, Neil has been recognized by Forbes as one of the top 10 marketers and has received accolades such as being named a top influencer on the web by The Wall Street Journal.
Neil Patel stands out in the digital marketing world because of his hands-on approach and commitment to sharing knowledge through his blog and podcast. As a serial entrepreneur and co-founder of multiple successful marketing platforms, his insights are grounded in real-world experience and long-term growth.
19. Joe Pulizzi
Joe Pulizzi is a prominent entrepreneur and content marketing expert, known for founding the Content Entrepreneur Expo (CEX) and The Tilt. He has authored influential books like “Content Inc.” and “Killing Marketing,” which provide strategies for building successful content-driven businesses. Pulizzi’s work emphasizes audience engagement and effective content strategies, helping companies like Red Bull and Disney thrive in competitive markets.
If you’re looking to deepen your understanding of content marketing, Joe Pulizzi is a must-follow influencer. His insights into transforming marketing operations into media companies are invaluable for any marketing manager. Pulizzi’s dedication to promoting content entrepreneurship and his discussions on AI’s role in branding make him a unique and forward-thinking leader in the industry.
20. Brian Dean
Brian Dean is a leading expert in search engine optimization (SEO) and the founder of Exploding Topics. With a degree from Tufts University, he has conducted extensive research, including analyzing over 1.3 million YouTube videos to understand SEO dynamics. His blog, Backlinko, has been widely recognized, featuring in major publications like Forbes and Inc., and he has been named the “world’s foremost expert on SEO” by Success Magazine.
Brian Dean stands out among digital marketing influencers for his innovative approach to SEO, making him a valuable connection for anyone in marketing. His ability to break down complex SEO concepts into actionable strategies is unmatched, and his philanthropic efforts, such as funding a school, highlight his commitment to social responsibility.
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