Content

Facebook’s announcement that its algorithm now gives priority to posts that spark “ meaningful conversations” is sure to create a domino effect. Showing less public content from brands and the media will change how users see content, and companies will definitely have to revise their strategies. Here are some other things to consider for 2018.

Personalized social media posts

It is now imperative that brands connect with customers on a more personal level so the timeline can favour your posts. By creating a voice for your brand, you connect with your customer in a way that appeals to them.

Video and Live Video

Changes on platforms like Facebook and Instagram now facilitate and promote video views. These include native video, stories and live video. Live video has become extremely popular, and will be utilized more in 2018, especially in response to Facebook’s changes. Facebook Live videos typically get 10 times the engagement rate of non-live videos (Mediakix). Such interactions are what you want for your business or brand. We suggest you use live video for important announcements, new products, interviews or demonstrations. Cisco forecasts that 80% of all consumer Internet traffic in 2018 will be video!

Influencer Marketing

Hiring social media influencers to endorse or promote your brand is an effective way of reaching your target audience. Perhaps more so than traditional marketing. People are more likely to be influenced by peer endorsements than celebrities, according to surveys by Collective Bias. The right influencer for your brand will help you connect with your audience, develop a loyal following and increase your ROI.

Artificial Intelligence (AI)

Artificial intelligence is now integrated into our every day lives. It is being used to increase business productivity, reduce repetitive and menial tasks and create more authentic, personalized experiences. Facebook uses it to determine content that is most relevant to us so our timelines and the advertisements we are shown are tailored to our interests. Similarly, you can use AI to collect data from your audience, create a better experience for them and get a sense of what they want. Salesforce predicts that by 2020, 57% of business buyers will depend on companies to know what they need before they ask for anything. So don’t hesitate to get your IT team working on some AI projects!