As the new year approaches, these emerging trends are poised to change the way marketers and businesses tackle strategy.
- AI web messaging
While many companies have already integrated artificial intelligence tools to handle web-based customer service live chat, improvements in the technology over the next year should push even more businesses to embrace AI live chat.
- Quantitative marketing
Quantitative marketing, driven by data science, can help businesses collect valuable customer information for a more focused, targeted approach. Companies that have long resisted a data-focused marketing strategy will be more likely to incorporate customer information to help spur growth.
- Voice optimisation
By 2020, an estimated 50% of users will conduct online searches through voice queries. Smart marketers, who have already adapted search technology for updated web and mobile platforms are sure to embrace voice search optimisation in the coming year.
- Privacy protection
High-profile data breaches have increased consumer wariness and pushed new legislation aimed at improving online privacy and protection. Cybersecurity is a growing concern for buyers and businesses alike, and it will continue to drive marketing strategy well into 2018 and beyond.
- Instagram presence
As of 2017, Instagram users number more than 800 million. The social media channel offers users better engagement with brands they love. For the brands themselves, it provides better exposure and advertising controls than other social networking sites. Heading into 2018, Instagram is poised to become the top channel for brands looking to improve their social media marketing strategy.
- Influencer promotion
The impact of influencer marketing should not be underestimated. Almost 95% of brands who use influencers as part of their social media strategy believe it’s an effective approach for reaching
consumers—particularly younger ones. Subtle sponsored content resonates more with modern buyers and influencer marketing can help businesses connect with consumers more organically.
Marketing strategy is ever-evolving. But by monitoring these emerging trends, you can make sure that your business remains at the forefront of your industry sector.