As we look back into 2017, numerous SEO and digital marketing trends made their mark in the industry. Now, it’s time to look ahead and predict which of these trends are set to blossom further in this year – and which new trends are on their way to really shake up digital marketing as we know it.
Use these 6 Digital Marketing Trends to Boost Business
1. Using Video to Boost Client Engagement
When it comes to driving client engagement, it’s clear that video has become one of the major players in the game. You only need to look at some of the video marketing stats on this. In fact, according to a Content Marketing Institute study, users are ten times more likely to share, engage, comment, or embed video content than other types of social posts. The reasoning behind these findings is that video is able to speak one universal language that connects with countless audiences from all over the world; and therefore, people find it more appealing than other sorts of content.
However, videos are also capable of boosting client retention rates. A recent Brainshark poll shows that more than 60% of viewers watch at least ¾ of a video – which is a significantly higher retention rate compared to text-based content. It is clear that if we have an important message to convey, video is the right choice to make.
2. Chatbots
This one is set to be one of the most significant digital marketing trends this year. Chatbots that only function with AI (artificial intelligence) technology are proving to be extremely helpful in dealing with customers by using chat interfaces. In 2018, you better watch out because they are most likely popping up in every sector of the industry.
Makeup retailers like Sephora and clothing lines like H&M have both been using Chatbots to their advantage. H&M had used it to provide their customers with a personal stylist Chatbot, whereas Sephora is using them to offer their customers tailored treatments, advice, and tips. Given the new dynamic way they’re creating, it’s clear that Chatbots are here to stay.
3. Micro-Moments
Micro-moments is another trend that will continue to rule this year. A micro-moment occurs when a user turns to their smartphone to act on a need to do something, learn something, buy something, watch something, or discover something. In the end, the brand that does the best job of satisfying our needs at each moment will win the battle.
But how can you address these micro-moments? Here’s how:
- The first stage is to create a “moments map”
- Make sure you understand customer needs at each moment
- Measure every significant moment
- A/B testing
4. Integration Influencing
2017 was the micro-influencer year – meaning influencers based in a niche field – but 2018 is set to be the year of a new kind of influencer market – integrated influencing. Based on the industry’s growing demand for new, comprehensive marketing strategies, 2018 will weave together macro-influencers, micro-influencers, mega-influencers, and other well-established strategies like advocacy, referrals, and loyalty.
5. Augmented Reality
As one of the fastest-growing markets in 2017, augmented reality (AR) will continue to have a big impact in the digital marketing industry this year. Apps like Specsavers and Pokemon Go serve as the perfect example of how AR can become a great marketing tool. But now, even furniture giant IKEA is incorporating augmented reality with their new App called IKEA place!
As a concept, augmented reality allows for the creation of three-dimensional thinking where customers not only see ads in front of them but also around them. However, the core value of AR relies on improving the way customers and businesses communicate with one another.
6. Quick Answers & Featured Snippets
Featured snippets or rich snippets have become a hugely popular new trend that is actively set to play a vital role in 2018’s digital marketing field. In simpler words, a featured snippet is a short answer or summary of a user’s question or query that’s entered into a search engine. These snippets are usually extracted from quality on-page content that suits the search engine’s query the best. The beauty of it is that they’re typically placed on top of SERPs; therefore, websites looking to get ahead of their competition should think about optimizing their content to be snippet-friendly.
Deliver a Win-Win with these Digital Marketing Trends
From video – literally a very visible trend – to influencer marketing, AR, and the micro-moments that will only increase, these digital marketing trends offer benefits for business and the client base. While your to-do list may now be longer, know that these trends can indeed deliver a win-win that helps achieve your goals.
Do you see a trend we haven’t included here? Or have any additional insights on the ones discussed above? Let’s hear your thoughts in the comments!
