Online marketing seems to change faster than we can keep up with. New trends and techniques pop up and transform the way we attract, connect with, and market to our audiences. To succeed in the fast-paced world of marketing, you need to stay ahead of the curve. We have compiled a list of the top 5 trends that will continue to be important, and new trends we see emerging for Fall 2020. Be sure to read on to stay up to date on the latest marketing trends.
1. Video Content
One big trend we continue to see gaining popularity is creating and sharing video content. This isn’t a new idea, however, it has only grown in demand from consumers. More than 50% of customers say they want to see video content more than any other kind of content from brands.
Creating video content is no longer limited due to costly resources and production. With good lighting, a smartphone, and editing software anyone can create quality video content. Video content can be shared across a variety of platforms such as Youtube, Facebook, Instagram, your website and various other social media.
2. Native Advertising
When your brand or company pays to feature content on a third-party website, you’re investing in native advertising. Native advertising is designed to blend in and promote your brand to a new audience that may have similar interests. This form of advertising has become a valuable tool for marketers because native ads don’t feel forced like traditional ads, therefore consumers are more likely to consume them.
Examples of native advertising can be found on social media, through search engine results, content recommendation platforms (those links to various other content you can click at the bottom of the page to read more on or related to the topic), or in campaigns.
3. Work with Micro-influencers
As we know Influencer marketing has been a major trend over the past few years, and throughout 2020 we have been seeing a rise in micro-influencers. This is a trend that is only going to grow throughout the Fall.
Micro-influencers are social media promoters with a smaller, niche following. Typically, thousands to tens-of-thousands of followers. Although these folks may have fewer followers, their posts often pack more punch due to their higher level of engagement.
Additionally, since they’re considered “average” and “everyday” people, audience members view micro-influencers more like friends and family and, therefore, are more likely to trust their opinions and recommendations.
4. Offer a Responsive, Mobile-friendly Website Design
As of 2020, 48% of consumer searches are made on a mobile device. In order to improve your SEO and attract customers, it is crucial that your website is responsive and mobile-friendly so that it formats and changes to be view on a phone, tablet, or desktop. Website speed is also becoming important as Google prioritizes better performing websites in their search engine results pages.
5. Chatbots
We live in a time of now. More than half of consumers expect a response within 10 minutes to any marketing, sales, or customer service inquiry. Now, this isn’t quite possible for the average human, but that’s where bots come in.
Bots are powered by a computer program that automates certain tasks, typically by chatting with a user through a conversational interface. Bots are made possible by artificial intelligence which helps it understand complex requests, personalize responses, and improve interactions over time. Chatbots are becoming increasingly popular in 2020, and if you have lots of inquiries it can be a valuable tool for your business.
Implementing Marketing Trends
Now that you’re up to speed on the latest trends, it’s time to experiment. Not every trend is going to work for you and your target audience, but as long as you’re keeping track of current marketing trends — and always remain open to change — your business won't fall behind.
