Social media, like most things in the last 2 years, had to pivot the way companies used it to maximize their marketing strategy. During 2021, we noticed a lot of previously successful tactics being used, while also seeing an increase in less popular strategies. Social media is continuing to take the front row in the world of marketing and today we’re looking at the social media trends that are shaping 2021!
Less is More
In previous years, we saw an increase in companies posting abundantly and frequently with little relevance and seemingly only to have their page at the top of their follower’s feed. 2021 went a little differently with brands taking the ‘less is more’ route and posting more purposeful and relatable content helping boost their engagement and following. In addition to less frequent posting, brands were producing ‘snackable content’ that can be easily seen and read while scrolling. “Snackable content can be in the form of photos, infographics, memes, gifs, short videos, and other formats, but essentially it is short, easy to digest, and able to be shared easily.”
Virtual Reality
Although VR is not a new trend, it is a trend that is becoming more popular with brands, and it is here to stay. VR is a playground for consumers to step outside of their reality for an immersive and engaging experience. If done right, a brand can create an unforgettable experience leaving a lasting impression on the consumer without them having to put their phone or computer down.
Ephemeral Content
Although brands are focusing on ‘less is more’ on their feed, their stories are becoming more vital and beneficial. Brands are realizing that consumers experience FOMO (Fear of Missing Out) knowing that the stories will disappear in 24 hours, so engaging with stories is higher on their priority list than scrolling through their feed. In addition to the urgency ephemeral content brings, it also creates more relatable content. According to Strike Social “People like to buy things from people. Good ephemeral content is quickly produced and carries a very personal tone. The lack of polish makes it easier for people to identify with the content. Ephemeral content should be created quickly and inexpensively — so it’s effective and efficient.”
Content Value over Production Quality
While many businesses were forced to go remote in 2020, brands had to take new approaches and create new marketing initiatives that could be executed from the comfort of their own homes. At home “production” shoots became the new norm and were relatable to the millions of Americans who were also stuck working from home. HubSpot’s Kelly Hendrickson explains “without a production studio or tons of equipment available, production value became a bit more lo-fi and, in the end, also a bit more human.”
Shopping Features
As mentioned above, Covid-19 forced companies to take their work home, resulting in their business being run completely online. Instagram and Facebook developed the ultimate convenience by offering shopping capabilities directly on their app. Consumers can now shop for products from posts immediately without leaving the app through Facebook Shops and Instagram’s shoppable posts.
Influencer Marketing is Here to Stay
Although not a new trend, influencer marketing is here to stay and thrive. Brands are not collaborating with the most famous influencers, but rather a group of smaller, more relatable, and niche influencers resulting in higher engagement and lower costs. According to Influencermarketinghub.com, “Investing in influencers is much cheaper than running paid ad campaigns and yet it delivers good results. Moreover, influencers can help marketers achieve a variety of marketing goals and not just generate leads.”
If you’re looking to take your social media to the next level, contact the media experts at PMC Media Group today!
