It’s often tough to determine which methods will connect the most effectively with consumers in this ever-changing marketing world. Just when marketers believe they understand their audience, a new technology, behavior, or even a totally new audience changes everything.
That being said, it’s practical to reflect on past year’s patterns and pay attention to growing trends that will influence the coming year’s success. Here are seven marketing trends to keep an eye on.
- Marketing funnel shift.
Currently the marketing funnel accepts everyone, only rejecting those if they aren’t profitable or those deemed unfit. However, businesses are starting to use content to target niche audiences to their advantage.
Reaching people who are actually interested in your brand is not only more cost-effective; it’s also more sustainable and less time-consuming. Consumers are seeking legitimate trust and genuine relationships more than ever.
- Content is everything!
In our current world, content is everything! As marketers, we need to entice our audience: inspire them, provoke their thoughts, excite them or appeal to their emotions. Our main goal here is to encourage them to share and engage with it. Content opens the door for two-way communication, which is critical for building trust and informing your customers that you appreciate their business.
- Chatbots aren’t going anywhere.
Customer service is crucial, but not everyone wants to talk to real people over the phone or has the time to email back and forth. Chatbots are an option for those who fall under that category. Chatbots are AI helpers integrated into websites that can answer questions and requests without sacrificing personality. Grand View Research reports that the worldwide chatbot market will reach $1.25 billion by 2025, growing at an annual rate of 24.3 percent.
- AI continues to grow.
On a related note, artificial intelligence is growing. It can target potential leads, makes data analysis more efficient, and can perform tasks humans struggle with. AI can also monitor consumers’ online patterns and help markets understand their behavior in real time. Even if your company decides not to use AI, it’s important to pay attention to how consumers react to it and if your competitors are using it or not.
- People are cautious about security.
Consumers are beginning to pay more attention to how businesses handle their information. All companies should ensure their security is meticulous. Consumers deserve privacy when it comes to their data and financials.
- It’s time to focus on Gen Z.
Gen Z is getting older, which means they’re entering the workforce and possess real buying power. Something to remember about the second youngest generation: they value authenticity and prefer socially responsible brands.
- Influencers have different identities.
Who influencers are has begun to change. Companies previously used celebrities to market to consumers and convince them their products are worth buying, but that’s no longer the case—at least not as often. Brands have noticed that people prefer buying from their peers or “real” people and have began working with more micro-influencers.
Contact us today and let us help you stay ahead of the ever-changing trends!
