Like some many things online, digital marketing relies heavily on what is currently popular. Below are some of the top trends in digital marketing.
- Think outside the Google box
While Google is still the overwhelming favorite, more and more consumers are looking for alternatives. Small, up and coming search engines like Duck Duck Go, are growing in popularity; although Google is still the most popular and most used search engine, marketers should stop solely relying on Search Engine Optimization and start engaging in more forms of direct marketing.
- Mobile matters
Mobile devices now account for the majority of internet usage in the United States. Likewise, with emerging devices such as Smart TV’s, watches, and wristbands, more people than ever are turning away from their PC’s. Because of this, marketers should make mobile searches, optimizations, and conversions their top priority.
- Brands as publishers
Because social media offers unprecedented connections between companies and consumers, even the smallest startup can use Facebook, Twitter, Instagram, or Vine to connect with their customers. Likewise, more and more corporations are creating and publishing their own apps and mobile games, further pushing the boundaries of brands as publishers.
- More individual marketing
Another way that mobile devices are changing the landscape of marketing is through geolocation. Using this tool, companies are able to provide specific information through push notifications, to their consumers, based on where they are. This, in turn, provides customers with timely and relevant information.
- Marketing and sales convergence
The one-to-one mindset of sales and the one-to-many mindset of marketing are beginning to converge in meaningful ways. Now more than ever, both sales and marketing are using the same techniques of real-time engagement and content creation. This may even lead to companies merging their marketing and sales divisions into one new, digitally focused department.
Many companies view the trends in digital marketing as too fickle to be a legitimate part of a marketing plan. However, incorporating these trends into your marketing strategy can help your business grow and connect with customers in the digital age.