Marketing trends: What’s in store for 2024

Well, this is our last blog for 2023 and what a year it has been!

As the end of the year rapidly approaches, it’s time to look ahead and see what marketing trends will be big in 2024.

 

Sustainability

Sustainability has been a big focus in 2023 and will continue well into 2024 and beyond.

Environmental concerns are at the top of businesses and consumers agendas, so showcasing your brand’s commitment to eco-friendly practices and social responsibility has never been more important. Promoting your sustainable and ethical processes and services, will be key to driving success.

Free photo front view man with wooden blocks

AI-Powered Personalisation

In 2024, Artificial Intelligence (AI) is expected to be used more to create personalised customer experiences by analysing data and tailoring content and product recommendations to individual preferences.

Chatbots will become even more sophisticated in handling customer queries and guiding them through the buying process, improving the customer experience.

 

Voice Search and Smart Assistants

Earlier in the year, we did a blog focused on how the emerging voice search trend is a game changer for marketing.

In 2024, optimising for voice search will be essential for SEO (Search Engine Optimisation). Integrating with smart assistants like Alexa and Siri will be crucial as more people rely on voice-activated devices for information and shopping.

Augmented Reality (AR) and Virtual Reality (VR)

AR and VR technologies will be increasingly used in marketing to provide immersive experiences. From virtual try-ons for fashion to interactive product demos, these technologies will engage customers in new and unique ways.

 

Video Marketing

Video content will continue to dominate marketing strategies in 2024. Short-form videos on platforms like TikTok and Instagram Reels will remain popular. With live streaming and interactive video experiences also expected to grow in popularity.

 

Non-Fungible Tokens (NFTs)

Non-Fungible Tokens (NFTs) have been gaining popularity in recent years and are expected to make a big impact on marketing in 2024. If you’re not familiar with NFTs, it’s a unique digital asset that can be bought, sold and traded in the same way as physical goods can. Customers can buy their own NFT using cryptocurrencies like Bitcoin or Ethereum on NFT marketplaces like OpenSea.

In 2024, NFTs are expected to be popular in the creative and entertainment industries, particularly for unique digital merchandise and collectibles, as well as exclusive access to content.

Popular rock band, Kings of Leon, have already successfully marketed their music and events, with exclusive experiences available through using digital tokens. Even luxury brand Gucci has released limited-edition virtual sneakers that players can wear in virtual worlds such as Roblox and VR Chat. With the growth of the metaverse, NFTs are expected to entice more customers, and NFT creators, investors and NFT influencers will continue to profit from assets they acquire.

If you are looking to get into NFT marketing you should know your audience well and offer unique and exclusive digital collectibles, to build a sense of urgency and demand among followers.

 

Social Commerce

One thing is clear, social media platforms are here to stay and will be very important for marketing in 2024.

The integration of e-commerce features will make it easier for users to shop directly through the platforms. This trend will blur the lines between social interaction and shopping.

Free photo hands holding smartphone social media concept

Community Building

Creating nurturing online communities around your products or services will be important in 2024. These communities will provide a sense of belonging and loyalty among customers and set you up for success.

 

Mobile Optimisation

Another key trend we saw this year, that will continue into 2024, is mobile optimisation. As more and more people use mobile devices for browsing the web, all businesses will need to offer a fast seamless mobile experience to remain competitive.

AMP (Accelerated Mobile Pages) and mobile optimisation will be essential for making sure users can easily navigate your website, boosting customer satisfaction, engagement and ultimately customer loyalty.

 

Get 2024 off to a great start with a free virtual marketing ideas session with marketing experts, call us on 01962 600 147 or email info@tlc-business.co.uk

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The Dos and Don’ts of Christmas Marketing

The countdown to Christmas is well and truly on – Christmas lights and decorations are up, festive songs are playing on the radio – so now is the time to spread the Christmas cheer through your marketing.

To help you get started, here are some key dos and don’ts to keep in mind when planning your Christmas marketing campaigns:

 

The Dos of Christmas Marketing

Embrace the Festive Spirit

Get into the festive spirit! Your marketing should reflect warmth and joy. It’s a great opportunity to bring people together and boost your loyal community. Showcase how your services can benefit your customers. You may even want to support a local good cause and share an extra dose of positivity.

Free photo young adult wearing santa hat and working on laptop, sending email with report in festive decorated office. employee using computer during christmas holiday season. tripod shot.

Be Creative

The festive season is saturated with messages, so make yours attention grabbing and memorable!

Stand out from your competitors with creative advertising, captivating social media and engaging email marketing campaigns.

 

Get Ahead

Launch your campaigns well before the festive rush. You’ll have a better chance of engaging your customers than if you bombard them at the last minute. Plus, the future (much less stressed) you, will definitely thank you for it!

 

Personalisation

Generic messages have a habit of quickly ending up in people’s deleted box, or being completely ignored. Make the most of customer data to tailor your marketing messages and make your valued customers feel special over the festive period. Personalised discounts and offers always go down well!

Free photo lady using laptop near gift box and christmas tree

Engage with Your Community

Keep your customers engaged with your brand through exclusive online events, competitions or giveaways. It’s a great way to create buzz and build loyal followers.

 

The Don’ts of Christmas Marketing

Overwhelm with Sales Pitches

Pushing hard sales isn’t really in the Christmas spirit. Go for a softer marketing approach and focus on how your products and services can genuinely benefit your customers. Think about your visuals, using festive colours and images to enhance the festive experience.

 

Ignore Cultural Sensitivities

It’s important to be inclusive and considerate in your messaging to make sure you don’t alienate any customers. Look to include other religious celebrations in your marketing plan for next year and celebrate diversity and inclusivity.

 

Neglect Your Online Experience

UK shoppers are expected to spend £24.1bn online (from 1st November to 31st December) a rise of 2.7% from last year, Reuters reports. So you must guarantee your website is up to the job! Make sure it is user and mobile friendly, optimising it for the best shopping experience.

Free photo image of pleased nice woman holding credit card with copy space using laptop

Forget Post-Christmas Opportunities

Lots of people will be exchanging gift cards and cash this Christmas. Remember to promote gift card sales in the lead up to Christmas. They are a great alternative to presents, as the lucky recipient can choose whatever they wish.

Don’t forget to plan post-Christmas campaigns to capture those looking to spend their cash and redeem their gift cards.

 

Overpromise and Under-deliver

Don’t fall at the last hurdle by overpromising and under-delivering. Set realistic expectations about your services and delivery capabilities to maintain customer satisfaction and trust.

 

We hope this blog has given you lots of top marketing tips ready for the busy festive season. If you need some extra support, our team is always happy to help!

For a free virtual marketing ideas session with marketing experts, call us on 01962 600 147 or email info@tlc-business.co.uk

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