We all like to know what the latest trends are so we can climb on board or watch with fascination to see what happens.
While we can do a quick check of the trending hashtags on Twitter, we want to examine the more serious, profit-enhancing business trends for 2015. Here’s our take based on some research of what experts and statistics have to say. Free advice from your CSG friends:
Make those videos and post them on your YouTube channels and web sites
Videos are becoming more and more popular with viewers. MarketingProfs has the data to back that up. Evidently, 70% of marketing professionals report that video converts better than any other medium.
Everyone (at least a number of our designers) hates the new Pantone color of the year
Colors are tricky — they can be so personal. So what do you do? Well, if you really hate something, then it’s best not to use it or you won’t buy into whatever the piece, product, or brand is. Having said that, keep an open mind and ask your designers for better options that work with the project, as well as the message you want to send.
It’s good to be King, and mobile marketing is wearing the jewels
We’ve been saying this for a few years, but it’s true and becoming increasingly more important in your marketing mix. Facebook’s advertising revenue in the third quarter jumped 64%. Hmmm. Targeting is the key and many social media channels allow advertisers to find relevant customers. Mobile ads are the way to go and we’ll be keeping an eye out for enhancements in technology and engagement tactics.
Visuals, visuals, visuals
Have an Instagram account? If not, then get one. Or, join Pinterest. Just make sure to use a variety of graphics on your online accounts and mix it in with your messaging. Whether you have a few followers or thousands, you can create visuals that engage and create more awareness. Use photos, infographics, and other branded visual messages. And don’t forget the hashtags. Brand your hashtags to your products or even lifestyles.
For example, our client NAB’s upcoming NAB Show theme is about craving content. They could brand their hashtags #cravecontent, which could resonate more with their audience members than posting the brand name, #NABShow. Those audience members may enjoy posting something that reflects a lifestyle or what they do rather than a specific brand entity.
Hook up with Influencers
It’s always been who you know. Now, it’s even more important to build relationships with the influencers who break through the noise of social media and digital news. You need to offer up something good, something genuine, and keep their interests (and the interests of their readers) in mind when discussing how you can help each other. Every industry has influencers, find yours and make them part of a partnership.
What trends are you seeing for 2015? Anything you’re tired of seeing from the past year? We’ll see you in the New Year for some innovative strategic sessions!
