In a dynamic world of digital marketing, staying ahead of emerging platforms and features is crucial for the success of any business. There's growing influence of personalized marketing through data analytics, that's pivotal in shaping the future of business marketing strategies. With advancements in artificial intelligence, augmented reality, and social media algorithms, businesses must adapt to leverage these technologies effectively.
We asked entrepreneurs, and business owners what new platforms are important for marketing in the next 5 years and here are the responses.
#1- Short-form videos
Short-form videos, typically under 60 seconds, align perfectly with the decreasing attention spans of modern audiences, offering a quick yet potent means of storytelling that can capture interest, convey messages, and drive engagement in a matter of seconds. Moreover, the high shareability leads to viral trends, making them a highly cost-effective marketing tool with a proven return on investment. As we look to the future, the integration of AI in video creation and optimization for soundless playback will further enhance the accessibility and appeal of short-form videos, ensuring that they remain a dominant force in the digital marketing landscape.
Thanks to James Heartquist, Modern Property Solutions!
#2- Doing things old school
The funny thing is that the more we progress with platforms and features like AI content generation, the most important part of marketing in the next 5 years is actually going back to doing things Old School. There isn't a lack of content nowadays, and with AI, it will be even worse. So over all the glossy and generic sounding video or written content, we as humans start to crave more for the human connection. Regardless of platform, Good quality, genuine stories about personal, or expert content will be what ultimately build trust, and credibility in brands and businesses.
Thanks to Francis Yim, Fantestimonial!
#3- User-generated content
As we look towards the future, User-Generated Content (UGC) is poised to take charge as a dominant force in marketing. The rise of AI-generated content in both text and media forms is making UGC more valuable than ever in certain areas. This is largely due to the high quality, which resonates well with audiences seeking authentic insights and experiences. Moreover, LinkedIn has introduced new article formats that allow professionals from diverse fields to share their expertise and opinions. This led to a greater emphasis on leveraging UGC for marketing strategies.
Thanks to Sasha Berson, Grow Law Firm!
#4- Augmented reality (AR)
AR applications are definitely on the rise for their potential to revolutionize how people interact with content. Take for example, in-game blogging, imagine in-depth reviews where readers can virtually hold a controller and explore game environments, or character profiles that come to life in their surroundings. This level of immersion can foster deeper connections with the content and significantly enhance the user experience.
Thanks to Dane Nk, VideoGame Blog!
#5- Augmented reality and virtual reality
New platforms like augmented reality (AR) and virtual reality (VR) will significantly shape marketing over the next five years. These technologies allow for immersive customer experiences, making product demonstrations and virtual tours much more engaging. Personalization features powered by artificial intelligence (AI) will also be critical, as they enable businesses to deliver tailored content and offers to individual consumers. Lastly, the rise of voice search platforms demands a shift in SEO strategies, ensuring content is easily discoverable via voice commands. Embracing these innovations can provide a substantial competitive edge in the evolving marketplace.
Thanks to Andrew Pickett, Andrew Pickett Law, PLLC!
#6- Social impact campaigns
Social impact campaigns are becoming increasingly important in marketing because modern consumers, especially younger generations like Millennials and Gen Z, are more likely to support brands that align with their values and demonstrate a commitment to social and environmental issues. Companies known for their social impact efforts often enjoy a better public image, and brands with a strong reputation for social responsibility may be better equipped to handle public relations crises and recover more quickly.
Thanks to Danielle Hu, The Wanderlover!
#7- Social media
Social media is still overwhelmingly important for marketing, including event and trade show marketing. Before, during, and after an event, your target audience is likely on platforms such as Instagram, LinkedIn, or X. But event-specific mobile apps are becoming an increasingly critical part of event marketing. Bespoke apps can draw interested users and improve their engagement throughout all stages of an event. Share opportunities and features of the event, use AI to recommend the perfect schedule to users and provide maps and directions. When these apps integrate easily with social media, they can also extend their value and reach.
Thanks to Thomas Samuels, Cardinal Expo!
#8- AI and digital dominance
The future of marketing will be purely digital, and the penetration of digital marketing will be more visible. Every business or marketing professional must understand the prevalence of AI with human supervision as the market will become vast and complex. I see AR/VR-based marketing, chatbots, high-speed data, and AI-based influencer marketing as the top new platforms for marketing in the next five years. You must collaborate on these features/platforms to improve your marketing strategies. They'll ease your business processing and attract new customers. Also, businesses must train their employees to use these features effectively.
Thanks to Soubhik Chakrabarti, Icy Tales Limited!
#9- Platforms that support niche communities
As someone in the guitar manufacturing industry, leveraging platforms that support niche communities will be crucial. Platforms like Reddit and Discord, which host specialized forums and interest groups, will be vital for engaging with guitar enthusiasts. Live streaming on platforms like TikTok and Twitch can showcase product demos, Q&A sessions, and live performances, building a more personal connection with customers.
Thanks to Samuel Jackson, Guyker® Music!
#10- Augmented reality (AR)
In the next five years, augmented reality (AR) will be pivotal for marketing, especially in the beauty industry, Sephora's virtual try-on has been using this, like try-on shades of lipstick and foundation. Imagine potential clients using Virtual Makeup Artists to try on beauty products virtually before making a purchase. This interactive experience can drastically reduce returns and increase customer satisfaction. Lastly, social commerce, where social media platforms integrate shopping features, will become increasingly important.
Thanks to Adam Garfield, Hairbro!
#11- Visual-centric platforms
For the lighting and interior design industry, visual-centric platforms like Pinterest and Instagram will continue to be crucial. However, emerging platforms like TikTok, with its short-form video content, will become more significant for showcasing design transformations and DIY projects.
Thanks to Jessica Wilson, InYouths LED Mirrors!
#12- Live market testing platforms
Marketers need great data to support great decision-making. Live market testing platforms will support this, and they will become as common as Canva or Semrush in a marketer’s toolkit. These platforms help marketers see what customers would buy or what messaging customers would respond to before their team creates an entire campaign or presents a new offer. And because these live market tests are based on clicks on digital ads, they’re reflective of real customer intent and buying behavior.
Thanks to Kate Okeeffe, Heatseeker!
#13- AI platforms
In the coming five years, AI platforms will become essential tools for conducting and evaluating marketing efforts. Loyalty programs will play a pivotal role in maintaining customer engagement, with Yopto at the forefront of this trend. A strong grasp of Profit and Loss statements will be crucial for marketers, making platforms like Xero indispensable. Organizational tools such as Notion and Monday will be key to achieving success through better management.
Thanks to Christoper Telley, HeyRCG!