The Latest Trends in Ad-Hoc Marketing, Design, and Advertising

In the ever-evolving landscape of marketing, design, and advertising, staying ahead of the curve isn’t just a nice-to-have; it’s essential. This is especially true for freelancers and consultants doing ad hoc work, where every project can be a new challenge. Ad hoc projects (short-term or one-off assignments) offer flexibility to both businesses and independent professionals. They also demand that marketers and designers keep their skills razor sharp. In 2025, a host of new trends are reshaping how we work and find opportunities. From AI-powered tools to the booming gig economy, let’s explore the latest trends and what they mean for marketing professionals looking for their next gig.

AI and Automation

Artificial intelligence has jumped from buzzword to real-world game-changer in marketing and advertising. No new technology is impacting the marketing world more right now than generative AI. Marketers are embracing AI to create content, brainstorm campaign ideas, analyse data, and personalise outreach at scale. One recent report shows that 88% of marketers rely on AI tools regularly.

What does this mean in practice? For one, content creation has sped up dramatically. With tools like ChatGPT for copy and Canva’s Magic Write for visuals, freelancers can generate drafts of ads, social posts or even design mockups in minutes.

However, as AI floods inboxes and feeds with auto-generated content, quality and originality become more important than ever. Audiences (and algorithms) are growing wary of cookie-cutter AI content. Smart freelancers pair AI’s efficiency with human creativity, using the technology to handle repetitive tasks but adding a personal touch to stand out. For further insights, Cemoh discusses this well in our post on AI in marketing.

AI is also transforming campaign targeting. From programmatic advertising platforms that auto-adjust bids, to AI-driven analytics tools, automation is streamlining workflows. But rather than replacing marketers, it’s creating demand for professionals who know how to direct AI effectively. Those with prompt engineering and data literacy skills are becoming particularly valuable.

Collaborative Design Tools

Design is no longer a solitary discipline. In 2025, most ad hoc designers are collaborating on cloud-based platforms like Figma and Canva. These platforms allow real-time feedback loops between marketers, designers, and stakeholders, even when they’re on different continents.

A recent survey found that 77% of designers now work on collaborative platforms, often as part of dispersed teams. For Cemoh’s freelance creatives, this means faster turnarounds and more agile client engagement. Tools like Figma support live editing, making it easier for freelancers to integrate into a project mid-stream.

Meanwhile, AI is transforming design workflows as well. Adobe’s Firefly and Canva’s AI tools can auto-generate images, logos, and layout suggestions, reducing the need for manual iteration. While this speeds up production, human designers are still needed to align these visuals with brand strategy and values.

Aesthetically, design trends in 2025 are moving toward interactive, inclusive, and sustainable experiences. Motion graphics, AR-enhanced campaigns, and responsive ads are becoming more prevalent. Inclusive and ethical design reflecting diverse audiences and climate-conscious choices, are no longer optional. These shifts are covered in detail on Cemoh’s blog.

Personal Branding: Your Marketing Resume

The rise of ad hoc work has made personal branding more essential than ever. Your digital presence is your resume, your pitch, and your credibility - all in one. Whether you’re a freelance copywriter or digital strategist, clients want to know you’re current, competent, and professional.

The most effective way to demonstrate this is through LinkedIn thought leadership, portfolios, and testimonials. Cemoh consultants are encouraged to maintain an active professional presence, and applying to become a Cemoh helps elevate that with visible case studies and client reviews.

Here are a few quick ways to polish your personal brand:

• Regularly share insights or project wins on LinkedIn
• Write blog posts or guest articles
• Collect testimonials and display them prominently
• Showcase niche expertise (e.g. “I help SaaS startups scale paid ads”)

The power of personal branding is also supported by Cemoh’s own content, such as this piece on how to build a marketing career.

Remote Collaboration

Ad hoc work in 2025 is powered by remote-first tools. Whether you're freelancing from a beach in Byron Bay or a home office in Adelaide, clients care more about quality and reliability than location. With platforms like Slack, Zoom, and Notion, it’s never been easier to collaborate asynchronously or across time zones.

What this means for freelancers:

• More opportunities globally
• Flexible schedules
• The need for digital fluency in project management tools
• Clear communication and documentation skills

Many freelancers are even forming virtual agencies, partnering with other independent creatives to bid on bigger contracts. Cemoh supports this style of work by matching professionals to clients seeking flexible, remote-ready talent. The Cemoh marketing jobs board is a live, updated resource where you can find these kinds of remote, project-based roles.

The Expanding Gig Economy

The gig economy is no longer a trend, it’s the dominant employment model for a growing share of professionals. By 2025, nearly half the workforce in markets like the US, UK, and Australia will be engaged in some kind of freelance or flexible work arrangement.

Why does this matter for marketers?

• More companies are outsourcing marketing functions, from social media to SEO
• More platforms are offering specialised freelance matching, such as Cemoh
• Freelancers are in control of their time, client relationships, and earning potential

In a recent Velocity Global report, more than 70% of freelancers said they do this by choice rather than necessity: a big shift from just a few years ago.

At the same time, competition is rising. With the increase in freelancers, quality and differentiation are key.

Cemoh: The Platform for Marketing Professionals

In a market where ad hoc marketing and creative work is exploding, platforms are the engine behind most freelance success stories. Cemoh isn’t just a place to find work - it’s a community, toolkit, and showcase for consultants and marketers.

Cemoh offers:

• Vetted access to top marketing gigs across Australia
• Personalised matches with clients
• A curated professional profile and portfolio
• Project and time tracking tools
• Active support and editorial features

Want to see what kind of work is available? Browse live listings on the Marketing Jobs page or read real-world case studies of freelancers delivering value.

Final Thoughts: Embrace the Shift

The marketing, design, and advertising industries are changing fast. But those who embrace flexibility, continuous learning, and strategic positioning will thrive. Whether you’re harnessing AI, upgrading your design skills, or building your brand the key is to keep moving forward.

The ad hoc work model isn’t going anywhere. It offers freedom, diversity, and access to incredible projects. But to succeed, you need more than just skill: you need visibility, credibility, and the right platform.

Ready to turn your talent into opportunity?

Join Australia’s top marketing community and start connecting with businesses who need your skills today.

👉Apply to become a Cemoh expert