What’s Hot vs. Not in 2024: Marketing Edition

2024 is here, and for brands looking to gain an edge in the vast online space, a shift in thinking is a non-negotiable.

Why? Consumer behaviors are evolving at an unprecedented pace, and the competition for attention is fiercer than ever. Staying ahead of the curve isn't just about keeping up… it's about anticipating shifts, embracing emerging trends, and defying the norms that have become barriers to progress.

So, let’s dive into what’s ‘in’ in 2024 and what we’re leaving in 2023.

What’s ‘in’ in 2024:

• Authentic Brand Storytelling:

  • Instead of merely sharing promotional content, focus on ‘living your brand’ through authentic storytelling that reflects your brand's values, mission, and culture.

  • Showcase behind-the-scenes moments, employee stories, and real-life experiences to humanize your brand.

• User-Generated Content (UGC):

  • Encourage your audience to create and share content related to your brand.

  • Feature user-generated content to demonstrate that real people are living and enjoying your brand, creating a sense of community.

• Live Streaming and Real-time Engagement:

  • Embrace live streaming on platforms like Instagram, Facebook, or YouTube to provide real-time interactions with your audience.

  • Host Q&A sessions, product launches, or live events to create a more immediate and personal connection.

• Interactive Content:

  • Engage audiences with interactive content like polls, quizzes, and augmented reality experiences.

  • Foster two-way communication and participation to enhance user experience.

• Employee Involvement:

  • Showcase the people behind the brand, sharing their passion and dedication, to build a stronger connection with your audience.

• Consistent Brand Voice Across Platforms:

  • Align your messaging with your brand values and personality, creating a cohesive and recognizable presence across diverse channels.

• Inclusivity and Diversity:

  • Promote diversity and inclusivity in your marketing campaigns to resonate with diverse audiences. Reflect a broad range of perspectives and demographics in your visual and written content.

What are we leaving in 2023:

• Inauthentic Social Media Personas:

  • Move away from creating a polished, overly curated image on social media.

  • Strive for authenticity by sharing genuine moments, even if they are imperfect, to resonate with audiences seeking more relatable content.

• Over-Branding in Content:

  • Avoid excessive self-promotion and instead focus on providing value to your audience.

  • Share content that educates, entertains, or solves problems, rather than overwhelming followers with constant promotional messages.

• Automated and Robotic Interactions:

  • Incorporate a human touch by responding personally to comments and messages, making your brand feel approachable and responsive.

• Inconsistent Brand Messaging:

  • Ensure that your brand's core values and messaging are clear and consistently communicated across all social media channels.

• Overemphasis on Vanity Metrics:

  • Move away from relying solely on vanity metrics (likes, shares) and focus on metrics that directly impact business goals, such as conversion rates and customer lifetime value.

• Static Content Only:

  • Ditch static content and embrace more dynamic and interactive formats like video content, live streaming, and interactive posts that tend to capture more attention than traditional static content.

• Ignoring Privacy Concerns:

  • Prioritize user privacy and compliance with data protection regulations and avoid practices that could lead to privacy concerns and opt for transparent communication regarding data usage.

Today, adapting to the ever-changing online environment is not just a necessity; it's a strategic imperative. By embracing the philosophy of "live your brand," businesses and nonprofits alike can foster a more genuine connection with their audience, ultimately building trust and loyalty in the long run.

At Avorio Marketing, we understand the intricacies of the digital world and are poised to be your catalyst for success. If staying ahead, embracing innovation, and maximizing your digital presence are priorities in 2024, contact us today.