The onset of the pandemic sent the world online for almost all its needs, from shopping for groceries to staying in touch with near and dear ones. People looked to social media for information and support. Against this backdrop, it is only natural that businesses are increasingly turning to digital marketing to reach out to their target audience.
The global digital marketing industry had reached a value of about $305 billion in 2020 and is expected to grow at a compound annual growth rate (CAGR) of 17.6% between 2021 and 2026 to reach $807 billion. The dynamics are evolving constantly- so stay alert to adapt to the newest changes with agility. For instance, COVID-19 changed the future of marketing, with businesses becoming much more aggressive in terms of customer retention, social media marketing, virtual events, and SEO.
But will this continue next year? Take a look at the digital marketing trends that are expected to rule in 2022.
1. Audio Content
B2C marketers are likely to add audio content to marketing in 2022. You can use AI-enabled skills with devices such as Amazon Echo. The most common types of audio content in marketing are podcasts, voice search, audio search, audiograms, audio blogs, and sign-off tracks. It features a personalized voice and can spark a connection with your listeners. Audio cues take only 8-10 milliseconds to reach the brain. Try to pick actual human voice recording and natural language processing techniques for maximum effect.
2. Short-Form Video
Crisp and snackable clips are the future of online marketing. The average human attention span is eight seconds. No wonder reels on Instagram and YouTube shorts have created quite a buzz. Studies have found that more than half of the marketers (51%) who use short-form video plan to increase their investment in 2022, since it has the highest ROI of any social media marketing strategy. Go for influencer ads, brand challenges, and product teasers. Align what is trending with what is ideal for your brand to ensure a greater impact. The best platforms are TikTok, Instagram, and YouTube.
3. Paid Search
In simple terms, you have to pay search engines to place ads on SERPs. It is known to produce fast results, generate better-qualified leads, and is quite affordable. You can also ensure brand recognition along with measurable results. Pair it with a post-click landing page to help the marketing strategy reach its fullest potential.
4. Influencer Marketing
The global influencer marketing platform is predicted to grow from $6 billion in 2020 to $24 billion by 2025 at a CAGR of 32%. There is no denying that its benefits can bolster your marketing efforts. The audience is already present. Simply pick the right brand representative catering to a specific niche. Influencers expand your reach, build quick trust, and forge partnerships and powerful relationships. These are especially a great option for brands that are struggling to create their mark in the industry. Start-ups can also benefit from influencer marketing.
5. Social Awareness
Google has promised more than $1 billion to renewable energy. Coca-Cola is focused on sustainability with 100% recyclable packaging. They are likely to reduce their carbon footprint by 25% by 2030. Netflix, Spotify, Ford Motor Company, and Johnson & Johnson also ensure social changes which have a powerful impact on the brand. These awareness tactics are likely to retain in 2022. Pick a cause that would make sense for your business.
Ensuring a strong presence on social media has become crucial. Also, consider incorporating a design system in your strategy. The time to prepare for the New Year is now! Is your marketing strategy ready?
