Videos
Statistics show that that the amount of traffic on the internet is increasingly coming from videos, which are likely to take a vast chunk of the market within five or so years. The vast majority (90%) of SNS users already share video content, and a similar figure of marketers use videos in their campaigns. Added to this, it is generally accepted that the bulk of what you see in a video stays in the mind, and almost three-quarters of B2B organisations report positive results from using video material. Coming up with engaging, punchy, mobile-friendly video content for a wide variety of platforms will help you keep up with the game.
As you update or create a new social media strategy to include videos, humanise your brand by incorporating people into them and their relatable stories. A few examples of videos you can create for this new normal include:
• Your team being socially responsible by donating masks to a community in need – film your team packaging the masks and dropping them off at a donation centre.
• If your business provides services to other businesses, help promote their businesses through video spotlights that tag their social media pages.
• If you sell physical products, offer a video of your staff packaging up products safely that also explains the safety precautions you put in place to keep COVID out of your office.
Messaging
Due to the pandemic, brands need to re-consider messaging on and off social media. Your social media content should be helpful and educational instead of being strictly promotional. During times of quarantine, be mindful not to use images on social media of groups of people or people shaking hands. Consider what is going on in the world with each social media post you create and how people may be feeling. As a good rule of thumb, when creating your social media content calendars, check in with Google TrendsGoogle Trend tool is a free service from Google that lets you see how popular a particular search term or topic is over time. and browse your social media feeds. We are not saying to make every message be about the pandemic (don’t do that), but what we are saying is to be mindful of the trying times people are going through. Of course you want to sell your products and services through social media, but doing so with empathy is key as 2020 progresses.
Streaming Live
It has been estimated that live streaming is also set to become highly prevalent, with the video streaming market expected to reach $70.5 billion by 2021. After all, there’s nothing like a live experience to shake things up! Take advantage of this trend by live streaming as much of what your company has to offer, from demonstrations of your latest products to news of what you are currently developing. Make it fun and instantly gratifying, with as much to catch the eye as you can, and utilise platforms such as Facebook, Instagram and even Snapchat.
Directly Speak to Your Demographic
The beauty of social media is that you’re able to speak your mind, and to your customers, almost instantly. By using Twitter, Facebook and Instagram, you’re able to focus your efforts on those most dear to your company. For instance, rather than spam everyone through email marketing, your social media can highlight your company’s personal brand. Are you bubbly and funny? If so, then crack some jokes on Twitter and see how your responses become a viral sensation!
There are, of course, innumerable changes that you should be getting acquainted with. From how you can boost sales using augmented reality, to the increased prevalence of AI and chatbots drawing customers in, as well as the need to get to know all about Gen Z (i.e., those born between 1995 and 2012 who have been exposed to the digital world all of their lives). Get a handle on these, and as much of the above as you can, and you can’t fail to make a lasting impact!
