After enduring so much unpredictability in 2020, it can be hard to forecast trends, but we have a few ideas. Instagram has unveiled several new features the last few years, most recently: reels. So, what might they focus on in 2021? Here are 7 Instagram trends to look out for:
- More focus on Instagram e-Commerce tools
As a response to the COVID-19 pandemic, many businesses are struggling, causing them to close their doors; therefore, more businesses are looking to move online. Instagram has already offered features that allow you to shop via their app, such as: shoppable posts, story stickers, shopping from creators, Instagram checkout, and live shopping. Adam Mosseri, head of Instagram has already announced that Instagram will soon roll out a new feature allowing consumers to shop from Instagram reels.
- Short videos will excel
In response to the huge liking of TikTok, Instagram introduced reels. In 2021, IG will make a few updates to this feature; including, lengthening them, brands collaborating with influencers on reel content, and brands using reels and IG stories for their businesses vs. the IGTV feature.
- Carousel posts + memes will continue to succeed
With Instagram likes disappearing, savable and shareable content will be very important for your brand. If you share an educational carousel or funny meme, people may share it to their stories or save it to refer back to later. These are two ways to increase your brands insights, engagement, and get people talking about you or your brand.
- An increase in diversity and inclusion
The increase in social activism showcased a lack of diversity within social media marketing, influencer marketing, and internal cultures of major brands. In 2021 (and beyond), it will be more of a priority for brands to showcase their diversity and inclusion.
- Influencer marketing will increase tremendously
Influencer marketing is on the path to becoming a $15 billion dollar industry by 2022. This coming year we will see a huge boost in influencer marketing. With IG’s new e-commerce features, influencers will be able to expand their creativity and create long-term partnerships with brands. One thing to consider is the lasting effects of the pandemic. With a decrease in ad spend for traditional formats, there is an increase in screen time on social media so brands will continue to shift their money to online marketing.
We’ve strategized and managed several influencer programs for our clients at Beach House Beverages. Below is an example of an influencer partnership with one of their brands, Café Rumba. Café Rumba has seen a huge boost in engagement, followers, and curated content that can be used across a variety of platforms.
- More authentic captions and posts
Authenticity has been a growing trend on Instagram and it will only become more important in 2021.This year more and more influencers used their platform to share their experiences with loneliness, depression, or anxiety, and cared less about having a well curated feed. This doesn’t only apply for influencers, brands are also joining in.
For example, stationary company Papersmiths thanked their community for the support during COVID-19 and asked for recommendations on improving their website:
- A shift to virtual brand activations and events
2020 was the year of virtual events and Instagram has been the new place to bring your community together. Even as the world begins to open up, virtual events are here to stay giving more people the ability to “attend,” it is cost-efficient, and you can allocate more money towards hosting platforms, speakers, and gifts vs. the venue, food and decorations.
With the challenges of 2020 hopefully dissipating soon, there will still be lasting effects, as well as new opportunities for the coming year. Partner with us to see how we can help take your social media platform to the next level.
