Email Marketing
The emergence of new communications-based technologies such as instant messaging via social platforms and chatbots gave rise to some pretty far fetched rumors over the past few years. This stemmed from the idea that email itself would become an obsolete method of communication in the business world. This has not held true and there is no evidence of this happening in the near or distant future.
Why has email failed to die like critics have previously suggested? It’s simple because people still use it and will continue to use it. Think about it, when you start working in an office setting, what is one thing that everyone uses (other than a phone or computer)? That’s right – an email address!
The truth is, email will not die because as long as businesses continue to mandate the use of email (now, in addition to popular instant messaging tools) people will continue to use email. With that said, marketers will rely on email addresses to be a prominent source of contact information because it’s not as personal as a phone number, but personal enough because most people check their emails every day.
Social Media Marketing
Social Media is tricky because new platforms are being introduced every few years to keep up with evolving technologies. So while determining which platforms will gain the most traction over the next 5 years would be hard, we do know that social platforms will be popular as long as people continue to consume content and pay attention to the news.
Here’s the expert projections for each popular platform.
Facebook: Facebook has been involved in some recent controversy pertaining to some unconventional uses of customer data. Despite this, many predict a significant comeback from Facebook in a way that will appeal to both users and publishers.
Twitter: Experts don’t foresee any significant growth or decline from Twitter in the near future. Twitter appeals to niche groups that like to stay informed and discuss trending topics. Considered to be the faster way of obtaining news (among social networks), Twitter maintains a loyal following that shows no signs of slowing down.
LinkedIn: The professional social media platform, otherwise known as LinkedIn has been growing since it’s launch in 2003. Experts are projecting consistent growth, as LinkedIn appeals to professionals in all stages of their careers, from job-seekers to industry specialists seeking knowledge, to executives looking to promote their personal brands. Unless a new (and somehow drastically improved) professional social network emerges, you can count on LinkedIn to stick around for awhile.
Instagram: Experts are expecting continued success from the image and hashtag-dominated platform. People are attracted to the way that Instagram encourages more creative posts, which keeps things fresh. With so many popular pages ranging from different niches and themes, Instagram has become a content juggernaut for teens and young adults.
Snapchat: Snapchat is popular for young social media users and is a great way for small businesses to promote themselves on a local level. While they have stayed healthy, they have received a hit after Facebook and Instagram started implementing stories and live videos as a way to dive into Snapchat’s base. Only time will tell the story of Snapchat’s success.
Reddit: Considered the ‘hardcore’ platform, Reddit is the site that sets the trends that other platforms follow. Popular trends from phrases to viral memes often start on Reddit and attract users searching for a more authentic and original internet experience. Reddit will most likely be successful for a very long time.
Pinterest: Appealing to the craftsy creators and the thrifty shoppers, Pinterest supplies large amounts of traffic for e-commerce sites every day. Users tend to follow boards for creative inspiration if they’re not looking for unique trinkets to buy.
Google+: While it might not be the most popular social platform, Google+ has a steady following in the business world and is likely to stay relevant as long as Google remains a dominant search engine.
Search Engine Optimization
Leveraging popular search engines like Google and Bing will be a large portion of business’ digital marketing budgets for as long as people use online search. What will change will be the digital marketing methods brands take, as they are constantly adapting to the evolving algorithms which determine link priority, and essentially online exposure for websites.
Over the last few years, Google’s algorithms have rewarded websites that supply high-quality content with relevant keywords, credible links and reliable metrics such as website traffic and session duration. Search engine optimization is certainly still worth investing in so optimize your website so your business can coast comfortablyhttps://www.wholesalemarine.com/.
Public Relations
Link Building: The cross between search engine optimization and public relations is the practice of building a list of inbound links to your website from other credible websites. This practice can help bolster your search rankings among Google’s algorithm, provides avenues for referral traffic, while perpetuating awareness for your brand.
HARO: Help a Reporter Out is an awesome tool for reporters looking for a source and experts looking for exposure. When a reporter needs a credible source to validate points of their story, they post queries that get sent to subscribers’ email addresses, where they can pick and choose where they pitch. This gives experts the opportunity to be featured in niche to mainstream publications. HARO won’t be going anywhere anytime soon.
Press Releases: If you’re looking to get a story out in the news, press releases are the way to go, and likely always will be. Just remember to consider the interests of the publications you’re pitching and make sure your story helps their cause as well.
Digital Advertising
Digital Advertising is on the rise and there is one thing that makes them stand out from other platforms. What makes digital advertising the best for users? The fact that Facebook and Google reward advertisers for promoting honest and relevant content. This results in cheaper CPC (Cost Per Click) rates and better overall results.
AdWords: Google AdWords is the premier digital advertising platform on the planet. Given the opportunities to feature ads on search and display networks, along with video, shopping, and mobile apps. With the ability to target by demographics and interests, AdWords allows detailed targeting with customizable properties that can be tailored to specific business’ needs.
Facebook Ads: Similar to AdWords, Facebook allows display networks in addition to its own platform. With the ability to target by demographics, interests, and purchasing behaviors allows advertisers to find their ideal customers affordably.
