This is Why I'm Hot: 2024 Marketing Trends

Relevant marketing is about staying in touch with what’s “in” and being a step or two ahead of the game. Small business marketing is a rapidly shifting landscape where “we've always done it this way” just doesn’t fly. If you want to play ball in 2024, here is a quick rundown of some of the major trends we’ve noticed this year..

Artificial Intelligence Took Our Jobs! (No, Not really)

Of course we’re going to start by talking about Artificial Intelligence (AI). From writing (half-assed, circular logic) copy to generating images (that look like they came from a fever dream) from text descriptions - right now AI is a trend, but one that doesn’t do much good when used like this. While many people may not be able to put their finger on exactly what they dislike about it, AI kinda stinks when used for creative endeavors. Unfortunately a lot of folks think they can save money using it this way. Bad idea.

AI is handy in your marketing Batman-style tool belt though when used for analytics. Efficiency is delivered to your doorstep when you use AI to comb through all sorts of data and expand that into trend predictions. With the right software, repetitive tasks and analysis that used to take days can be done in minutes and then used instantly to make more personalized and effective campaigns. For example, AI could be used to target specific segments of your customers based on previous purchases and even figure out the perfect moment to make a post or send an email by knowing the times when your engagement is at its peak. That’s definitely some of that “work smarter, not harder” stuff your dad always said, right? Listen to him for once.

Goldfish Attention Spans are 9 Seconds, People Aren’t Much Better

Short-form video is, to borrow a phrase from Buster Poindexter, Hot Hot Hot! Platforms like TikTok and Instagram Reels are the number one destination for quick, engaging content - and people are flocking there like crazy. Most videos are only around a minute long which fits perfectly with the fast-scrolling mindset found in 2024. Get your brand to make some creative, authentic content that resonates with your target audience and you’re guaranteed to find some footing. The real key here is to emphasize authenticity and be relatable. Show the human side of your brand and reap the rewards. We fully expect this type of content to be popular for some time.

Green is the New Black

It’s probably fair to say that most people like our planet, which is why sustainability is not only a trend but a movement. Customers are spending their money with brands that show their commitment to ethical practices related to the environment, which is why companies who authentically (there’s that word again!) share their eco-friendly initiatives, use of sustainable materials, and support for causes that align with social responsibility for a brand are reaping the rewards. Figure out how green initiatives fit with your brand, highlight them when appropriate, enjoy the benefits, and watch your engagement rise, not the sea levels.

Peer Pressure is In

Influencer marketing is something we’ve touched on before and with good reason. It has been, and continues to be, an amazing tool for marketing. What is less well known is the increase in micro-influencers. Micro-influencers are usually hyper-focused on a specific region or very niche content. Their following is typically smaller than bigger creators, but their audience is fiercely loyal and engages more consistently. The success behind these influencers is simple - people trust real recommendations more than your typical advertising. Making a genuine connection with the right influencer that aligns with your brand values will create genuine connections with your audience and grow your own following. We're absolutely keeping our eyes open to see how this trend develops.

What Have You Got to Say for Yourself?

If the Internet has proven anything, it’s that people love to share their opinions. This is why more brands and influencers are creating interactive content. Things as simple as short quizzes or polls are cropping up everywhere to engage audiences and earn familiarity with customers. You can also turn around and use that data to make more robust campaigns and products that appeal to your target. Your brand absolutely should be taking advantage of this trend and reaping the benefits of increased engagement, tons more data, and hooking audiences so they return to see what’s next.

Conclusion

It’s always a good idea to stay on top of the latest trends and incorporate them in your marketing when/where it works best for your brand in an (ahem!) authentic way. But also keep in mind that trends are just that - changing, evolving things that grow and evolve into something else, just like your approach to marketing should. Incorporating the trends that make sense for your brand will keep you in the minds of your audience and well ahead of the curve. At the same time, be ready to evolve with the trend because change is always coming. Embrace the new ideas that come across your plate, be genuine in your efforts, and keep the big picture in mind to unlock success in the years ahead. As always, we'd love to discuss how TAWC can help you make effective use of these trends, so hit us up and let's do the dang thing.