The growing influence of Instagram and its Insta Stories, the importance of entertaining profile content, bots, virtual reality and the empowerment of words. These have all begun to influence the shape of digital marketing in recent months. And in 2018, these trends will gather momentum.
The past year has brought some major changes to the digital world. And it’s safe to assume that their influence will determine the shape of social media this year. So which trends are worth following in 2018?
1. Insta Stories
Digital marketing experts agree that Instagram and its Insta Stories will be at the top of social media popularity this year. Short videos, based on authenticity and emotion, will be what influences the perception of reality and what will definitely transform the entire advertising industry. Not only marketers but also the media will have to respond to the Insta Stories phenomenon.
2. Creativity on social media profiles
Profile managers will have to make every effort to create content that is entertaining or at least beneficial to users. Unfunny profiles will not be read, their posts will not be shared. They become boring grey and blend in.
3. Bots
Bots, automated communication with users, will become increasingly involved in social media campaigns and communication. Machine learning is currently being tested by Facebook, but it is already certain that bots will gradually become the standard, which can target users even better.
4. Virtual Reality
Virtual reality was deployed in social media content last year, primarily by big brands. But this year, it is expected to make a massive push into the mainstream market. Browsing products on an e-shop or photos of different destinations will take on a whole new dimension.
5. The power of words
The so-called word of mouth recommendation has always been considered the most powerful marketing tool. And despite all the marketing gadgets, automation, bots and virtual reality, a recommendation from a friend or family member will remain the recommendation that will make any brand stronger almost instantly. Live proof, in short, will be better than anything else, and companies will have to reckon with it and coddle influencers, opinion leaders and reviewers.
Not only these trends, but many others are being closely monitored by us to explore their ideal application in practice. We have experts who specialise in each component of marketing communications, so if you would like advice or assistance, please do not hesitate to contact us.