Top 5 Digital Marketing Trends for 2021
1. Live Video
No surprise here! Video has been the biggest topic in digital marketing over the past five years— I expect live video to follow a similar curve. In 2020 live streaming increased by 99%. People now know, and are getting comfortable with both the concept and its platforms, after a year that showed Zoom & live video are here to stay.
Rory McGouran & Jamie Neugebauer broadcast the SJHL Virtual Showcase live on Twitch
2. Audio Content
Podcasting has been on an absolute tear in the past year. Not only in terms of listening— but also creation. It’s become easier and easier to start a podcast with apps like Anchor, and you can even use your phone for audio. We can’t forget about the newest kid on the block: Clubhouse - It’s an incredible audio based, social media app - Clubhouse is a very good way to connect with people across the globe, all while simultaneously growing your brand. Follow me; Tanner Goetz - if you're on it!
3. Brand Activism
Consumers are commanding that companies are taking on social responsibility with their services & products. Seeing brands Nike create a campaign urging people to be a part of change during the Black Lives Matter movement or Ben & Jerry’s “Unfudge our Future” urging leaders to tackle climate change. People really want to see companies investing in causes and non-profits as well.
4. Brand Content
Well-crafted brand content has stolen the advertising spotlight from things like banner ads. Gone are the days of “in your face” ads. We’ve known this for a little while now, yet brands continue to do it. Brand content works because it’s either educational, entertaining, or inspirational.
5. Brand Advocates & User Generated Content
I’m not going to say the word "influencer", because I really don’t like it but, it truly does work. When you see or hear someone writing a Google Review for a local business, posting about that new coffee spot, or about a new app, people are more intrigued versus hearing it from the brand itself. Bottom line: Trust rules.