In recent years, more and more businesses are moving their products and services online. The ongoing COVID 19 crisis will see companies investing more in digital marketing to balance shifting business environments.
You might be wondering what the critical digital marketing strategies to consider in 2021 are. First off, you need to engage and retain your current customers. Secondly, you need to generate more online traffic and leads to improve your sales and revenue. You can know more about top trends to watch out for when you consult with experts such as Online Marketing Gurus – digital marketing agency.
Top 6 Digital Marketing Trends to Watch in 2021
1. More social media engagement
You must prepare to dedicate more resources to social media strategies in the year 2021. In the past year of 2020, budgets for social media accounted for nearly 24% of the total marketing budget, which is an increase from 13% back in 2019. The current goal of marketers is to retain customers, and lead generation is a critical priority that will continue into 2021.
More people are increasing their time online and will research products, brands, and institutions. This shift created new opportunities for marketers to utilize inbound digital marketing to connect with new audiences and re-engage long-standing ones. It will help if you develop a content plan and post regular updates and monitor customer responses and reviews. All these will help you attract new business.
2. The impact of micro-influencers
Influencers are people who have a considerable social following by producing high-quality and engaging content. They can be found across well-known social media platforms such as Instagram, YouTube, Facebook, and Twitter.
Audiences follow influencers because they are relatable and trustworthy. Their opinions are highly valued and can impact the behaviour of their target audience. This type of power is what most brands are looking for. When you balance the position of an influencer, you can effectively connect with customers, build brand awareness, and make your content and products popular.
According to experts such as Online Marketing Gurus – digital marketing agency, this year, brands will be getting the services of micro-influencers. They will explore the benefits of influencer marketing in their online marketing strategy. The lower cost and high return of investment offsets issues that arise from collaborating with micro-influencers, such as additional management and expenditures.
3. Interactive marketing
Interactive elements on your website and social media are a terrific way to retain visitors. If you offer them value and increase engagement, you will be learning more about them.
For example, real estate agents can provide a mortgage calculator on their website that provides value to visitors and increased engagement. It allows the real estate agent to learn more about their visitors based on data keyed in on the calculator. They can utilize this information to refine personas and offers.
4. Video content
According to experts, video content is predicted to amount to over 80% of all online traffic. Video is a marketer’s gold mine. Statistics also show that over 50% of consumers prefer video content provided by brands and businesses.
Because of this, for the year 2021, it is vital to utilize various video content formats to fit your brand niche and optimize them throughout your customer’s journey. Ensure that the videos you produce will carry your brand, values, and persona to make them unforgettable and impactful.
5. Increased usage of Google listings and local SEO
If you manage a physical store, the best route is to increase your foot traffic or walk-in customers. You must have a robust online presence and keep current on local listings on various search platforms available in your local area.
B2C businesses rely mainly on local customers such as car dealerships and dental services. Because of this, online listing services are critical such as Google my business. These platforms provide your information, such as your location, contact details, and service hours.
6. Segment your customers for optimum retention
Because of the prevalence of digital technologies, customers are becoming accustomed to online experiences that are personalized and specific to their behaviours, preferences, and demographics. Therefore, your business must constantly collect and analyze data about your customers and adapt your digital marketing strategy accordingly.
Customer segmentation is a highly effective way to reach out to a broader audience while at the same time providing them with a bespoke experience of your business. By identifying which group of customers should receive specific content based on the data your business has analyzed, you can efficiently allocate your marketing resources by ensuring that the contents you provide reach those who are likely to respond positively.
Some aspects of digital marketing strategies are constant, but some elements are tweaked due to technology and audience preferences. It will help if you apply the necessary measures to improve your branding and increase your conversions and profitability.
