Marketing is a constantly evolving sector. What worked even five years ago is simply outdated now. That’s why marketers need to ensure that they are up to date on the emerging trends, and the newer methods for better and more effective campaigns. While this means that older and more traditional marketing strategies are redundant, the fact is that modern methodologies are proving to be highly effective. As such, it’s imperative that your marketing strategy is in-tune with what both businesses and consumers need. Failure to adopt these trends could mean that your marketing efforts are ineffective and not cost-effective. Here are the trends that you need to focus on in 2019.
Chatbots
While this is not a new trend, it continues to become more popular. 2019 looks set to be the year that the majority of businesses adopt chatbot usage across the board. Consumers demand immediacy, and the use of chatbots that can answer their questions whenever they need answers are the key to a more global marketing strategy. The benefits of chatbots include:
- 24-hour access
- Immediacy
- Problem-solving for consumers
- Smoother communications
- Complaint resolution
- Improved conversion rates
Interactive Video
Video is becoming the number one content type around the world. While this has made many businesses make an immediate pivot to video creation, interactive video looks set to be the next big trend. Interactive videos encourage interaction, which is the key to more effective marketing. The main benefits of interactive video content are:
- Stronger performance
- Higher levels of engagement
- Higher click-through rates
Deep Analysis
While the use of real-world statistical analysis is not new, it is becoming the emerging factor for marketing in 2019. This is being seen the most in terms of Value Stream Mapping. This allows marketers to ensure that their existing processes are fully optimized for maximum efficiency, and can reduce unnecessary and wasteful spending. Businesses are able to encourage their existing team to implement this process management via an easy to organize a Value Stream Mapping Event that could be the easiest way to ensure that your company or department is working at maximum efficiency. Doing so will ensure that your marketing can:
- Keep costs down
- Maximize process efficiency
- Minimize waste
- Boost productivity
Beacon Technology
This is a relatively new trend but one that is set to utterly transform marketing strategies in 2019 and beyond. Through the use of GPS technology and company apps, marketers can now target consumers based on their location. This allows for a much greater opportunity to personalize and encourage purchasing. Ideal for those businesses hoping to promote spends, the requirements are minimal and the potential gains immense. As mobile phones continue to dominate the online consumer market, the use of beacon marketing through apps is set to become an essential for businesses in 2019. Benefits include:
- Personalization
- Encouraging impulse buys
- Targeted promotions
These four trends are the foundation of a better and more potent marketing strategy in 2019. If your marketing team is still relying on outdated methods to promote a company then you’re creating roadblocks to your growth. Adopting these trends will be the essential ingredients for marketing success in the coming year.