Tamar Toledano on the Future of Marketing and Why Intent AI and Connected Experiences Will Define Success in 2026

SAN FRANCISCO, CA / ACCESS Newswire / December 23, 2025 / As the marketing industry moves toward 2026, familiar strategies are no longer delivering the same results. Keyword-focused tactics that once drove traffic and conversions are losing effectiveness. Marketing strategist and consultant Tamar Toledano believes the next phase of growth requires a more complete shift in thinking.

According to Tamar Toledano, modern marketing must move beyond keywords and isolated tactics. Success will depend on understanding customer intent and delivering personalized experiences supported by artificial intelligence. Brands must also connect these experiences across multiple platforms to stay relevant.

"The way people discover and engage with brands has changed," said Toledano. "Generative AI now shapes how information is presented. Social platforms influence buying decisions. Short video content drives commerce. Marketers must respond with clarity and purpose."

Based in San Francisco, Tamar Toledano has over a decade of experience in marketing strategy. She began her career in the marketing department of a multinational corporation. There, she built a strong foundation in brand management, data analysis, and campaign execution. After ten years in the corporate environment, she moved into consulting to work more closely with organizations.

Through her consultancy, Toledano supports early-stage startups and established companies. She helps them clarify their positioning and connect with audiences in meaningful ways. Her work focuses on sustainable growth rather than short-term gains.

The Shift From Keywords to Intent

Traditional digital marketing relied heavily on keyword targeting and funnel assumptions. These methods worked when search behavior was predictable. That environment no longer exists.

Generative AI now shapes search results. Information is summarized rather than listed. Recommendations are based on context and behavior. Social platforms surface content without direct search queries.

"Marketers need to understand what the customer is trying to achieve in each moment," said Toledano. "Intent matters more than volume. Relevance matters more than reach."

An intent-driven strategy requires more profound insight into motivations and needs. Brands must listen carefully and respond with helpful content. Messaging must be timely and aligned with the customer journey.

AI as a Strategic Tool

Artificial intelligence is often viewed as a way to produce more content faster. Tamar Toledano believes this approach misses the real opportunity. AI should support better decision-making rather than replace human judgment.

When used correctly, AI can identify patterns in behavior. It can support real-time personalization. It can help marketers adapt quickly to changing signals.

"AI works best when it strengthens human insight," said Toledano. "It should help brands stay focused on what matters most."

She also emphasizes responsibility. Over-automated messaging can feel impersonal. Generic content can damage trust. Authenticity and ethical storytelling remain essential for long-term relationships.

Social Platforms as Discovery Channels

Social platforms now play a central role in how people discover brands. Consumers often learn about products through video and creator content. They form opinions before visiting a website or search engine.

"Social platforms are no longer just engagement spaces," Toledano explained. "They are discovery engines."

Short video content is compelling. It communicates emotion quickly. It shows real use cases. It builds trust in seconds. For many brands, it has become a direct path to conversion.

Toledano encourages marketers to think like storytellers. Brands must educate and inspire rather than interrupt. Consistent storytelling builds familiarity and confidence.

The Importance of Connected Experiences

As the number of channels grows, coordination becomes critical. Customers move fluidly between platforms. They expect continuity at every step.

A customer may discover a brand through social content. They may validate it through an AI-assisted search. They may convert through email or direct messaging. Each interaction must feel connected.

"Presence alone is not enough," said Toledano. "The experience must feel intentional."

This philosophy reflects Toledano's broader approach to marketing. She believes a strong strategy requires both analysis and creativity. It also requires patience and adaptability. She often credits golf for teaching her focus and long-term thinking.

Looking Ahead to 2026

As technology continues to evolve, Toledano urges marketers to stay grounded. Tools will change. Platforms will shift. Customer expectations will continue to rise.

"The core question remains simple," she said. "Are you genuinely helping your audience. If the answer is yes, the strategy becomes clear."

Through her consultancy, Tamar Toledano continues to guide organizations toward growth built on trust, clarity, and relevance. These principles, she believes, will define marketing success in 2026 and beyond.

To learn more visit: https://tamartoledanosf.com/

Contact Tamar Toledano:toledano@tamartoledano.com

SOURCE: Tamar Toledano