2018's Digital Marketing Trends

2018's Digital Marketing Trends

As marketers, we need to be flexible, constantly keeping up with new trends to be sure we are keeping up with our competition and remaining relevant with our audiences. Knowing this, our research and education should be an ongoing effort, and adapting to changes a priority.

We’ve put together a list of trends that are displaying themselves so far this year, and what they mean for the digital marketer. Read on for more information, and keep your products and services top of mind!

1. Mobile-First Mentality

While not a new concept, mobile is increasingly important with each passing year. Chances are if you take a look around you at any given moment in time, you’ll see plenty of people with smartphones in their hands or iPads in their laps. That being said, it is imperative that marketers continue to take mobile seriously when it comes to creating marketing strategies and successful customer experiences. Of course, the first step is to make sure that your website is mobile-friendly and engaging. Depending on your business model, you may also be able to employ mobile tactics like SMS messaging, apps, etc. when trying to reach your prospects and customers where and when they want to be met.

2. Creating Content

Marketers, now more than ever, need to be in control of the conversations their customers and prospects are having. The best way to do this is to create quality content and develop a comprehensive strategy to get this content to the front of the line. Whether it is a blog, YouTube channel or podcast, be sure to focus on thought leadership and value adds when creating the content that represents your company. Not only will this establish a basis of trust that your company is experts in the industry, but it also will help factors like SEO.

3. Reviews for Reputation – and SEO

The first thing that comes to mind when you hear the word “review” is probably scathing Yelp reviews and reputation management – and rightly so! According to this research done by Pew, 50% of adults under the age of 50 check online reviews before making a purchase. By ensuring that those reviews are positive, you’re increasing your chances of making the sale. Put a plan together for getting reviews, whether it’s an email campaign or a social media post. Do not, however, incentivize people.

A good reputation is not the only reason to tap into the power of reviews, as Google also looks at reviews (on Google, Yelp, Facebook and more) when ranking your business in search results. The higher your ratings, the higher you will likely rank in search engines.

4. Video, Video, Video

Many consumers prefer video over text, and with the rise of mediums like Facebook Live and Snapchat, telling compelling stories about your brand can be as simple as a two-minute video. As reported by Unbounce, using video on a landing page can lead to an 80% increase in conversions, so getting into a habit of producing video content now may benefit you in the long run.