1. Focus on visual storytelling.
The growth and use of mobile devices is requiring marketers to become more creative and more precise as they communicate with potential customers. This includes formulating messages that are not only interesting but also digestible in the smaller platform.
One way to achieve this goal is to use more graphics, more photos and more videos as opposed to long form text.
Instead of a three page blog or email, focus on telling your story creatively. Like any good book, generate a beginning with a thought provoking ending.
Use visual mediums to deliver the message. The end result will be better viewership, better readership, and an increase in customer engagement.
2. Use More Video
A 2014 trend continues. In a recent study by Sharaholic.com an analysis focused on various levels of engagement from different social sites. The site with the longest time of engagement, average pages per visit, and lowest bounce rate was YouTube.
Google+ was second and LinkedIn third. Interestingly Twitter and Facebook were well behind toward the end of the pack.
By its nature, video is entertaining and engaging. It lends itself perfectly to visual storytelling. Therefore if you use any of these social sites for marketing purposes, think video first.
3. Content Marketing is Still King
Those companies that consistently create valuable content will gain a giant step on their competition. This includes reaching customers through a variety of channels.
The goal is to provide insight to your audience. When done correctly you can build rapport with your targeted demographic and build a loyal following.
Focus on social media, articles on your website, eNewsletters, case studies, videos, and sharing articles from other pertinent websites.
4. Develop Mobile Friendly Content
As mentioned earlier, the growing use of mobile devices is going to demand content that is easily accessible on smaller devices.
According to Forbes, 87% of connected device sales by 2017 will be tablets and smartphones.
Businesses can create an alternate mobile version of a website or utilize web design that is more responsive to the smaller format.
Those companies failing to adapt to this trend will fall behind competitors adapting to these newer platforms.
5. Leverage Earned Media with Social Media
In 2015, content may be king but quality content will rule. Businesses should utilize their PR and spread it across multiple platforms. Articles, interviews and even award lists are considered quality content not only by customers but also by search engines.
When published by a credible media organization, these placements not only help build corporate reputation but also boost your ranking on Google, Bing and others.
The end result will help your business rise above the noise and gain a leg up on the competition.
