This year, 2018, has seen considerable change, and with change comes adaptation. Adapting means keeping an eye on emerging trends and embracing new tools and technologies. Trends can spring from anything – a fresh product hitting the market or a viral dance move taking over.
For marketers, it’s crucial to pay attention to social media trends. They offer a way to boost your brand’s presence and popularity. However, trends come and go quickly, so it’s essential to stay vigilant. Being late to catch onto a trend can make your social media efforts seem desperate. Aim to be ahead of the curve and maintain your brand’s relevance! Here’s a guide to help you spot the unnoticed and must-know social media trends, keeping your online game strong.
What Are Trends Anyway?
To start, let’s clarify what trends entail. Understanding this will help you recognize when something is trending and what qualifies as trendy. Essentially, a trend reflects what’s happening at a given time. On social media, this manifests through trending hashtags and other popular posting styles.
Trends vary across different fields; for instance, fashion trends differ from photography trends. Social media trends, however, serve as a bridge, making content relatable across various target audiences.
What’s the Online Landscape Like?
To leverage the internet and social media effectively, it’s vital to understand their current state. The standout social media trends in 2018 align with the direction of the internet. To engage internet users effectively, we must understand their behaviors. This entails examining online data and statistics.
Currently, there are approximately 2.5 billion social media users. Platforms like Facebook and Instagram reign supreme, but others such as Twitter and Snapchat maintain global activity. Mobile devices are the preferred access point for social media, with most users accessing platforms through mobile apps.
User-generated content drives the highest engagement rates. People trust individuals more than faceless corporations, so creating relatable content can significantly boost reach and engagement.
Video content remains the most popular format. Its engaging nature has made it a favorite for years, with 2018 being no exception.
Businesses are shifting their ad investments towards social media rather than traditional platforms like TV. Video ads and influencer collaborations are among the standout trends driving this shift.
Social messaging apps are surpassing traditional social media platforms in popularity. Platforms like WhatsApp and Messenger are seeing rapid user growth.
Chatbots are now commonplace. With the rise of social messaging, chatbots have become indispensable for customer service and marketing.
These are just a few internet trends that shed light on what’s cool and what’s not. Most trends emphasize creating mobile-friendly content to resonate with today’s audience. It’s not just about creating and sharing content anymore; it’s about creating quality content that sparks conversations and boosts engagement.
Today, brands can’t afford to ignore their social image. The most successful marketing campaigns resonate with social issues on a personal and slightly humorous level. Maintaining strong customer relationships is vital, with much attention focused on nurturing these connections.
Now, Let’s Dive into the Must-Know Social Media Trends:
To make your brand shine online, it’s crucial to stay updated on the latest social media trends. Crafting content becomes easier when you know what resonates with your audience. Here’s a rundown of the most recent trends:
1. Embrace Video:
Video content reigns supreme, especially shorter formats. Studies show that the average social media user spends over 70% of their online time watching videos. Platforms like Instagram and Facebook are encouraging video consumption, making it a prime channel for engagement.
2. Go Live:
Live streaming has become essential for building relationships with consumers. Platforms like Instagram and Facebook offer live streaming features, allowing businesses to connect directly with their audience in real-time.
3. Harness the Power of Influencers:
Social media influencers hold significant sway over consumer behavior. Collaborating with influencers who align with your brand’s values can greatly expand your reach and credibility.
4. Prioritize Engagement:
Building strong relationships with consumers is paramount. Consumers are more likely to share experiences with brands on social media, emphasizing the importance of positive interactions and feedback.
5. Explore Advanced Technologies:
Augmented reality, virtual reality, and artificial intelligence offer innovative ways to engage with audiences. Integrating these technologies into your social media strategy can create immersive experiences and drive engagement.
6. Utilize Paid Advertisements:
Paid ads on social media remain effective for reaching target audiences. Although sponsored content may seem less appealing, it offers a powerful way to boost visibility and target specific demographics.
7. Embrace Face Filters:
Face filters, a form of augmented reality, are gaining popularity on social media platforms. Leveraging these filters can enhance brand engagement and tap into current events and trends.
8. Embrace Chatbots:
Chatbots offer a cost-effective solution for handling customer inquiries and providing support. Integrating chatbots into messaging platforms can improve accessibility and streamline customer service.
9. Adapt to Generation Z:
Generation Z consumers have unique preferences and behaviors shaped by their digital upbringing. Understanding their values and interests is crucial for tailoring marketing efforts effectively.
10. Address Social Issues:
Consumers respond positively to brands that take a stand on social issues. Demonstrating social consciousness can foster stronger connections and loyalty among your audience.
11. Utilize Ephemeral Content:
Ephemeral content, accessible for a limited time, offers a sense of urgency and exclusivity. Platforms like Instagram stories provide opportunities for real-time updates and engagement.
12. Embrace Online Hangouts:
Online hangouts, including group video calls, are becoming increasingly popular. Platforms like Houseparty facilitate virtual gatherings, providing new opportunities for social interaction.
Looking Ahead to 2024:
As social media continues to evolve, understanding emerging trends will be essential for staying ahead. Short-form video content, live streaming, advanced technologies, community building, and influencer marketing will continue to shape the social media landscape.
Social listening tools can help businesses stay informed about online conversations and trends, enabling them to adapt their strategies effectively.
In conclusion, staying informed about social media trends and adapting your strategy accordingly is crucial for success in today’s dynamic digital landscape. By prioritizing authenticity, engagement, and innovation, businesses can leverage the power of social media to connect with their audience and achieve their goals.
