Are you wondering what social media trends have in store for 2024? Let’s dive right in and explore the eleven expert predictions that are going to shake current marketing trends and give you top tips to stay ahead of the game!
What Are the Current Trends in Social Media Marketing?
Current social media trends include AI integration, influencer product placement, using SEO in social media posts, using augmented reality technologies, dynamic video angles, using in-house influencers, creating content series and curated bio links. Instagram and TikTok have also extended maximum video lengths, allowing content creators to delve deep into subjects through authentic storytelling.
11 Social Media Marketing Trends for 2024
1. AI Integration
Artificial intelligence has multiple uses in digital marketing trends. It can be used to create images from text, to remix new and improved images and to generate videos from text and image inputs. Visual content creation tools such as DALL-E and Midjourney can be used to generate images for websites, blogs and social media posts, and apps such as Dreamweaver and Gencraft allow creators to bring concepts to life on mobile devices.
For example, we love this image of two goats image titled ‘Animal Pool Party’ which was generated on Midjourney by ml_aiart.
The use of AI-powered tools such as ChatGPT, WriteSonic and copy.ai are also becoming more widely used to generate ideas and write content for blogs and captions.
As AI content keeps growing, apps like TikTok, have put some measures in place to avoid any misleading information, and all the AI-generated content in the platform is clearly labelled and visible to all users.
2. Influencer Product Placement
Influencer Marketing is not going anywhere, and if your brand is not investing in this growing marketing strategy, you’ll definitely be missing out in 2024! Marketing products is a thing of the past. Using influencers to market experiences ‘with products’ enables consumers to receive marketing messages naturally and subtly. Furthermore, the information shared also reaches a very niche target audience that is interested in what’s being shown to them.
For example, the post below shows AnnieeLainey, a writer and advocate for accessibility, diverse representation and mental health, carrying out her day-to-day exercise routine for Ehlers-Danlos Syndrome (EDS) and using her Triumph Mobility chair.
3. SEO for Social Media
Marketing trends in 2024 include boosting SEO on social platforms, but why? Internal data studies by Google have shown that ‘nearly 40% of Genz Z prefers using TikTok and Instagram for search over Google’ which highlights the importance of prioritising SEO for social posts going forward.
We all know the importance of hashtags, but have you thought about using keywords in captions? Instagram now factors caption text, not just hashtags, when someone is searching for a specific topic; use relevant keywords, but avoid keyword stuffing. You can also improve your SEO on Instagram by selecting two to three topics to categorise your reels before posting, as well as writing alternative text for static posts and carousels. (Check out our Instagram accessibility tips blog to understand why its important all images have alt tags, not just for SEO).
4. Using Augmented Reality Technologies
Many smartphones and apps now have augmented reality capabilities which allow users to overlay digital information onto the physical environment. In the past, using simple overlays such as in the reel by ribeyerach below, has enabled creators to portray fun and playful messages, whilst addressing topics related to their own lived experiences.
However, augmented reality is now taking this to another level, as brands create immersive experiences for their audience, allowing them to try on products virtually or explore virtual showrooms. This will not only enhance the customer experience but also drive sales and foster brand loyalty. A more recent example of AR technology can be seen in the post below by awe.curation which shows a person filming a portrait painting which then becomes animated and narrated using AR technology.
5. Longer Form Video Content
As social media continues to evolve, one of the prominent trends in 2024 is the rise of longer-form video content. With platforms like YouTube and TikTok already popular for short videos, users are now seeking more in-depth and engaging content. This shift opens up opportunities for creators and brands to explore storytelling and provide valuable insights through longer videos. Whether it’s educational tutorials, vlogs, or documentary-style content, longer-form videos are becoming a preferred choice for social media users. Are you a short-form video content lover? Or are you looking forward to this shift on social media?
6. Authentic Representation
Authentic representation is another significant trend in social media for 2024. Users are increasingly demanding content that reflects diverse perspectives and experiences, without diversity washing! This shift towards inclusivity encourages creators and brands to prioritise representation and ensure that their content resonates with a wider audience.
An example of authentic representation can be seen in one of our influencer marketing campaigns for VisitEngland in which @lifeofpippa shares her accessible outdoor experiences in the North York Moors.
7. Dynamic Video Angles
Dynamic video angles are set to be a major trend in social media for 2024. Users are craving visually captivating content that goes beyond traditional static shots. By incorporating dynamic camera movements and unique perspectives, creators and brands can create a more immersive and engaging viewing experience.
Aerial shots, point-of-view and dynamic video angles will captivate and hold the attention of social media users. Plus, the return of horizontally filmed videos is also set to return with a twist – using a stacked-style horizontal layout to feature multiple video clips playing at once.
@cartycaruso More travel vlog content from varanasi! I have so much fun editing together all the fun shots from this trip. Honestly i wish i had a dedicated photo and video camera instead if having to switch back and forth, but my lumix does so well. Stay tuned for more! #varanasi #gangesriver #carnaticmusic #pri #kaveri #travelindia #eternal #travelvlog #cinematic #cinematics #explore #indiatravel #exploretravel #exploreindia #35mm #india ♬ Eternal – Nikhil Iyer
8. In-house Influencers
Another trend is the rise of in-house influencers or as some like to call it EGC (Employee Generated Content). Brands are recognising the value of working with influencers who are already part of their organisation or closely aligned with their values. CEOs, Directors and Head of Departments may start showing their faces more regularly, and by sharing their expertise they can increase levels of trust and build authentic connections with their consumers. This trend also allows brands to have more control over the content and messaging, ensuring alignment with their overall marketing strategy.
9. Content Series
Content series are predicted to be a prominent trend in social media for 2024. By creating a series of related content, creators and brands can establish a habit for their audience, encouraging them to regularly engage with their content. This approach not only increases brand visibility but also fosters a sense of anticipation and loyalty among social media users. Whether it’s a weekly video series, a monthly blog post series, or a daily Instagram story series, content series have the potential to keep audiences coming back for more!
10. Bio Links Replace Landing Pages
Bye-bye landing pages, hello curated link in bio’s. With the limited attention span of social media users, brands are finding it more effective to direct their audience to a concise and curated bio link that showcases their key offerings. By optimising bio links with relevant information, call-to-actions, and easy navigation, brands can streamline the user experience and drive conversions directly from their social media profiles.
This trend not only simplifies the user journey but also allows brands to track and measure the effectiveness of their social media efforts more accurately. An example is Later’s LinkinBio which features a mixture of links in various forms. This layout provides easy navigation and the Instagram-style square images subtly lead viewers to the resources and blog sections on their website. Brands are now also starting to utilise A/B testing for curated bio links to see which layouts and types of buttons/links attract the most clicks.
11. The Power of Shares
Whilst we all know the importance of gaining likes, comments and followers – it is easy to forget about the power of shares. This year, shares are predicted to become one engagement signal that stands out. Why? If a person shares a post it means that it’s not only valuable to them; it’s valuable enough to be worth something to others. This sends signals to social platforms and suggests that a post is authentic and has real value. The more shares a post receives, the more likes and comments it naturally gains. You can increase shares by collaborating with influencers and other brands, running giveaways and engaging with your audience’s comments to build a sense of community around your brand.
Why Are Social Media Marketing Trends Important For Businesses?
Social media marketing trends are important for businesses because they provide insights into the evolving preferences and behaviours of social media users. By staying up to date with these trends, businesses can adapt their strategies to effectively reach and engage their target audience. Following social media trends also allows businesses to stay ahead of their competitors and maintain a competitive edge in the digital landscape.
How To Stay On Top of Social Media Marketing Trends?
Staying on top of social media marketing trends requires a proactive approach. You can check out publications, blogs and social media platforms regularly to monitor the industry for updates and insights. You can also want to attend in-person events or online webinars which can provide valuable networking opportunities and access to expert knowledge. By actively seeking out information and staying connected to the social media marketing community, you can stay ahead of the curve and ensure your social media strategies are fresh, relevant and effective.
At Purple Goat, we share a bi-weekly news recap with the latest inclusive marketing and social media news, as well as a trends recap so you know what’s going on in the different platforms.
How Do Social Media Marketing Trends Relate to Wider Marketing?
Social media marketing trends are closely related to wider marketing strategies; as social media continues to play a significant role in consumer behaviour, wider marketing strategies also need to shift to align with these changes in behaviour. For example, a survey found that in 2023 Tik TikTok influenced purchase decisions for 62% of Gen Z users, which shows an increase of 15% when compared to a 2022 survey. Therefore, businesses may need to reconsider where they are spending their budget as consumer behaviour changes, and rethink their wider marketing strategies.
How Might Social Media Marketing Change in 2024? Concluding Thoughts
Now, we’d like to hear from you!
What social media marketing trends are you anticipating this year?
The above insights have been collated from various social media experts, however only time will tell what the ever-changing digital landscape has in store! AI will likely be embraced with open arms, along with exciting advancements in augmented reality. However, unforeseen trends may emerge as creators and influencers inspire the scene with authentic representation and fresh, new ideas. So, watch this space!
If you would like to find out more about the latest digital marketing trends, whilst combining with the best inclusivity practices, you can check out our brand strategy and consultation solutions. Or, if you simply want to connect with us and stay up to date follow us @purplegoatagency.
