We’re headed toward the end of another year, and it’s time to start planning the next year. As you look ahead to 2018, and attempt to plan your online campaigns, it’s a good idea to keep an eye on social media marketing trends.
If you’re looking for what’s next, here are six trends to attempt to maximize in the coming year:
1. Live Stream Expansion
One of the hottest social media marketing trends of 2017 was live streaming video. And it’s not over yet. In fact, 2018 is likely to see an expansion of live streaming. The possibilities of sharing information live with followers and interacting through coverage are great, and you have a chance to take advantage.
Put together a live stream schedule and stick to it. Be on the watch for new tools that make live streaming — especially with multiple participants in various locations — easier.
2. Augmented Reality
With virtual reality becoming increasingly popular, watch for augmented reality to change some aspects of social media marketing. Facebook is already experimenting with it. That’s little surprise, considering Facebook owns virtual reality pioneer Oculus Rift.
But it wouldn’t be surprising to see augmented reality move out of the realm of mobile gaming and into social platforms like Instagram and Snapchat. Brands and others could incorporate augmented reality into filters and use other ways to market.
3. Instagram Stories to Gain More Traction
If you want to take advantage of social media marketing trends of the future, don’t forget about Instagram Stories. Increasingly, people are using Instagram Stories to connect with each other. Mastering this part of Instagram can help your brand and business go a long way in your efforts to engage with your audience.
4. Messaging Platforms Could Increase in Popularity
The development of artificial intelligence means that messaging platforms are increasingly popular. Chatbots can help you provide personalized experiences to your customers and clients. Platforms like Messenger, Kik, and WhatsApp can make it possible to provide insights and direction automatically. While chatbots aren’t perfect, they do have potential, and using messaging platforms to engage your audience could make a big difference down the road.
5. Looking Toward Gen Z
Millennials are still a part of the major social media marketing trends, but it’s time to look toward Gen Z as well. The leading edge members of Gen Z are 22 right now. That means they are graduating from college and entering the workforce — and they have some disposable income and buying power.
Pay attention to where members of Gen Z congregate. For example, Snapchat is popular among members of Gen Z. You might need to expand your social marketing strategy to include Snapchat to reach these customers.
6. Tighter Rules from Social Platforms
As you move forward with your social media marketing plan for the coming year, make sure you pay attention to rules from social platforms. Many are tightening their rules and changing the way they monitor and govern social platforms in the wake of continued information about how social media was used to manipulate consumers in the United States.
Paying attention to what’s next in social media marketing trends can help you prepare now. Lay the groundwork for a better future online by anticipating some of the trends.
