2020 was a year of unprecedented change, and with that came change in social behaviors and attitudes. Given the radical change that happened in the last year, it’s nearly impossible to predict how things will unfold in 2021. However, patterns and habits are emerging, and some practices are always pertinent. Now, more than ever, social media is proving to be an invaluable channel for marketers to reach and convert customers. The ever-changing social landscape, however, requires channel managers to stay up to date with the latest social platforms and methods for best reaching your target audience. Read our predictions for staying up to date in 2021, and most effectively leveraging your social marketing.
Socially Conscious Content
The ticket to the top of the algorithm is always engagement, and that’s not changing in 2021. Due to COVID-19, people are spending more time than ever before online, and that’s a double-edged sword. Too much time spent on social apps shortens people’s attention spans, which means your content needs to grab them quicker than ever. Knowing your audience and the type of content that resonates with them is the best way to ensure engagement; comments, likes, shares, retweets and so forth. Customers are more aware of social and global issues, and more aware of how their favorite brands are taking a stance as well, so be mindful of that when you’re planning content.
Short Video Content
If you think TikTok or Instagram’s Reels is just a bunch of teens lip-syncing and filming choreographed dances, you’re partially right. But these bite-size video apps are quickly becoming one of, if not the most, popular social engagements tools for rising generations and exhibiting tremendous staying power for 2021. TikTok has over 2 billion downloads on the App Store/GooglePlay, and 800 million active users, while Instagram has the largest number of downloads for any social platform. The sort-video content is a marketing avenue worth seriously considering in the upcoming year.
Live Content
2020 changed the marketing landscape in many ways, but one of the biggest was a major decline in in-person events. Many retailers moved their events to a digital platform, offering the same great content for viewers at home. The increase in live content is a major plus for brands, providing a unique opportunity to engage with their audience in a fresh, innovative way. Consider offering Q&A sessions where customers can ask your brand questions, or a collaboration or takeover. Invite an industry expert and host an interview or take your audience behind the scenes of your offices. Live content is a fun, unique way to refresh the content on your feed, and give an authentic feel to your brand.
