5 social trends that’ll dominate 2019
Social media moves so fast, it’s hard to keep up with the latest trends. That’s why the Internet, without sounding like too much of a superhero, needs somebody like me to keep track of it all. Luckily for you, I’m a social media kinda guy - the best type of guy if you ask me. Sit back, relax and let me tell you about the social media trends that will change everything in 2019.
1) Influencer-Marketing Will Get Better
If you browse social media on a regular basis, you’ll know that influencers are becoming a bigger presence every year. They are literally everywhere and for a good reason. According to recent statistics, 92% of consumers trust user generated content. Many of the big brands now use influencers to connect with engaged young audiences around the world. It’s a simple and easy way to market your product or service.
However, don’t think that this is all sunshine and rainbows because influencers have had a tough year. Over the course of 2018, influencers have been criticised and under threat due to the rise of illegitimate accounts. It’s not hard to buy fake followers nowadays, despite the big social channels trying to crack down on it. I may have led you into a false sense of security, telling you influencers are cool and then all of a sudden scaring you. Personally, I believe the stigma around influencers recently will contribute to a much more successful year in 2019. Businesses and brands are now more aware of the risks and pick their influencers more carefully.
Are you looking for an influencer to promote a product or service? You don’t have to break the bank to get access to them, try micro-influencers (10k-100k) followers. Their audiences are usually more interactive.
2) Talking More About Yourself
It’s true, talking more about your values as a business and individual is a trend that will become even bigger in 2019. The days of sitting back and watching as many argued over politics, the environment and other topical subjects are gone. It is now encouraged that brands have a voice, and an empowering one too. Generation Z’s, the very people who grew up in the age of rising social media, are beginning to seek relief. They see the negatives of social media and understand when brands are being deceptive. However, in particular they are very interested in shopping and interacting with brands that align with their values.
It isn’t just Generation Z’s who want brands to be more transparent and open, but other generations too (just not as much).
3) Don’t Be Afraid, Go Live
Live streams on social media just keep going from strength to strength. Especially when it comes to brands. With the introduction of live streams on pretty much every platform, it’s no wonder they have become so popular. Hosting regular live streams for your business allows you to ask questions and allow your audience to ask too. Perfect for immediate responses and learning more about who your true target audience are. Did you know the average number of Facebook live broadcasts has doubled year-over-year since 2016?
Getting your business live can:
Humanise your brand
Build a customer community
Provide an inexpensive way to talk in real-time with users
Organise and advertise events
4) Offering A 110% Customer Service On Social
One of the social media trends of 2019 that will really stand out is this one. Customer service. We already know that having bad customer service on social media leads to a handful of negatives. Next year, we are going to see a lot more chat bots being used and a much more integrated approach to social customer service - it’s critical businesses include customer service on social media in there 2019 strategy.
I hear the same point a lot, “I don’t have time to reply to messages fast on social media, I have work to do”. That attitude is discouraged on social media and will be discouraged even more in 2019. As everybody knows, Facebook already pretty much penalises you for being slow at replying to customers. It may be worth hiring somebody to keep an eye on your social media, by ignoring it you are only digging yourself a hole unfortunately.
5) Augmented Reality Is Here To Stay
AR is popular, very very popular. It’s particularly doing well on social channels like Snapchat where you can create your own filters for your brand - then let users play around with them. In 2019, Augmented Reality is going to become even bigger. Samsung were the first in the UK to try out Snapchat’s clever animated (and sponsored) facial filters at the end of 2017. Throughout 2018, we’ve seen them become almost second nature. In the world of film and technology, big brands are using these filters to create brand awareness with the younger generations.
I couldn’t put together a list of social media trends for 2019 without including AR. It just wouldn’t be possible! If you have a younger audience or want to create brand awareness then AR could be a great shout for you. AR on social media can also been seen within video content and on thousands of apps. Soon, we will see a real overlap between Augmented Reality apps and social media - so get ahead of the game.
There’s So Much More
2019 is going to be an awesome year for social media and if you’re business isn’t already utilising the power of it then get yourself sorted! Now is the perfect time to get setup and ready on social media before the new year. We’ll see an increase in user generated content, video marketing and also anything related to Generation Z’s. If this blog helped you in any way, let me know and I’ll making similar blogs up until the new year to keep you in the loop.
