Trends come and go, but these days, more trends seem to be coming – and staying – than going. Case in point: the marketing buzz building as we head into 2012 leans heavily to the mobile and social side of things. It makes sense: last year, Pew Research Center estimated 42% of consumers use smartphones to stay connected. And no longer are they only using Facebook. Burgeoning social networks such as Instagram, Pinterest, Tumblr, and even Google+ continue to generate fuss among consumers and marketers alike, as they create new ways to document and share information. Meanwhile, savvy brands ranging from Chik-Fil-A and Oreo to Sephora and Walgreen’s have given themselves modern makeovers, complete with mobile apps, interesting social media campaigns and – perhaps most importantly – an obvious commitment to engage consumers in meaningful (read: personal) ways. My Vertical Marketing Network colleagues and I have pointed to some trends we think matter most now, but there will surely be others. Is your marketing radar ready?
Maybe I’m just blogging out loud, but it seems like today’s trendsetters are tomorrow’s marketing tools. Never underestimate the potential of a new product.
Which begs the question: What marketing trends are on your radar for the near — and distant — future? What trends would you like to see take off this year?
As always, we encourage your comments in the section below. Or, head to Vertical Marketing Network’s Facebook page to join the conversation.