8 digital marketing trends to kickstart the spring
We’re ushering in this year’s spring with some of the latest trends in digital marketing. From richer content to targeted location ads, 2016 shows us that mobile is king. Mobile users are spoilt for choices, challenging brands to offer even more value-added services and communication that are relevant and useful. Let’s take a look at what’s been taking our digital world by storm.
1. Mobile only / Mobile first
With over a billion people using mobile as their only form of Internet access in 2015, mobile device usage has surpassed desktop use for the first time in history. Mobile users also share twice as often. The adage for 2016 is definitely “Go mobile or go unknown”.
2. Mobile videos
Changing lanes without checking your blind spot? Volkswagen stops you in your swipe.
3. Location, location, location
Geo-location targeted ads used to be seen as intrusive. However, mobile users are not complaining when attractive perks are being offered.
Ever wondered where that plane is flying to? British Airways’ geo-location billboard tells you.
4. Content remains king
Longform blogs are making a comeback as mobile users now spend more time online during commutes, at home, or even during meals. Word-of-mouth marketing has now gone online through bloggers, celebrity tweets and social media.
5. Omnichannel
In other words, cross channel. Internet users are exposed to every form of media everyday, so why not target as many of them that are relevant to you as possible? Facebook and Twitter remain the powerhouses in social media, but Instagram and Snapchat are fast-growing channels to look out for.
Everyone’s has played tag. But what about Twitter Tag? Volkswagen Polo shows you how.
6. Native advertising
Ever seen the “sponsored content” link that appears on your Facebook feeds? These communication channels use shared data to give Internet users what they are interested in, thus concentrating advertising to only your target consumers.
7. Go niche to make audience feel special
Understand your customers, know their needs, and give them what they want. Digital data clearly points to ongoing trends and preferences. Using this to reach individual users in a personal way lets them know that you understand them better, and in turn, they’ll feel more connected with your brand.
Nike lets runners trade their Fuel points for exclusive products. Want a T-shirt? Run for it.
8. Digital goes print
Logging off can also be a way to standing out and avoiding the clutter. Instead of just a link your target audience shares on social media, your digital business can be turned into a guerilla billboard or a printed statement, alive even when WIFI isn’t.
Airbnb and cnet has gone IRL and printed their own magazine. Be present both on- and offline.